Dental crowns provide a protective covering for the tooth and are made of porcelain, metal, or composite resin. They can be used on teeth that have been damaged by decay, cracked roots, or worn down due to poor oral hygiene. They are often placed over one or more existing crowns or fillings as a restoration after dental treatment. A new crown is necessary if there is severe damage to the surface area of your teeth or when a filling needs to be completely replaced. The following are five tips to protect your dental crown:
1. Watch what you eat
It’s important to follow an appropriate diet to help prevent food particles from causing damage to your teeth when eating. Avoid foods such as nuts and crunchy fruits until your dentist recommends them because these items can cause damage to the crowning material, which may be caused by excessive wear. If you decide to indulge in something that could harm the crowning material, brush lightly with fluoride toothpaste before cleaning the teeth so that you won’t damage the crown. This will also reduce the amount of time needed for its re-application.
2. Keep good oral habits
An excellent way to protect your dental crown is to ensure your mouth is clean and healthy. Brushing twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush is strongly recommended. Proper tongue scraping removes plaque and tartar build-up between the gum line and the teeth and helps prevent gum disease. It should be done at least once a day. Additionally, flossing or interdental brushes are helpful tools if you suffer from gum disease. The goal of this tip is to maintain a healthy mouth which will benefit your teeth and dental crown.
3. Have regular dental exams
Your dentist visits ensure that your mouth remains in top condition. Dentists provide comprehensive preventive dentistry treatments that address most problems that arise within your mouth. They use only modern techniques and materials. Patients who receive regular checkups and care have better long-term results than those who don’t. During appointments, they check for cavities. If any are found, restorative work begins. Once completed, your dental crown is applied, and you are on your way.
4. Don’t ignore the tooth under that crown
One potential problem related to dental crowns is gaps between them and the tooth below them, known as “crown/tooth interface leakage.” When these leaks occur, bacteria can enter the space leading to serious infections. To minimize this problem, ensure the crown fits tightly over the tooth and not too far back. Also, thoroughly dry the gums between appointments and ensure no water gets behind the crown. Lastly, it is imperative to see your dentist regularly as an accurate diagnosis can lead to proper treatments.
5. Keep the crown from becoming stained
Crowns are usually whitened to match the color of surrounding teeth. However, if they become stained, it might affect their appearance. You can take several steps to keep your crown white. Avoid brushing it with abrasive products, like toothpicks, rinse gently with cold tap water every time after meals and try using toothpaste designed specifically for the protection of tooth enamel. These methods will enable you to enjoy your newly-restored smile without worrying about discoloration.Having a beautiful smile is very important to feel confident at all times. A great way to achieve a beautiful smile is by having a set of perfect pearly whites. Take some time to learn about each step involved in installing your dental crown. You can visit a dental office, ask questions, and get recommendations. By doing so, you can find the best option that will suit your needs.