How to Care for Your Dental Crowns to Make Them Last Longer

Feb 01, 2025

Dental crowns are a lifesaver for damaged teeth, but they need the right care to stay strong and functional. Neglecting them could lead to unexpected problems, but the good news? A few simple habits can make a great difference. Ready to learn how to keep your crowns in top shape and protect your smile for years? Let’s dive in!

Understanding Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are protective caps placed over teeth to restore their appearance, function, and strength. They’re often used when teeth are weakened, cracked, or have undergone extensive dental work, like a root canal.

Why people get crowns:

To restore a broken or worn-down tooth.
To protect a weak tooth from breaking.
To improve the look and appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth.

Crowns are made from materials like porcelain, metal, zirconia, or a combination of porcelain fused with metal. Each type offers unique benefits, from the natural look of porcelain to the strength of metal options. No matter the material, crowns require proper upkeep to maximize their lifespan and maintain their working over time.

Daily Oral Hygiene Practices

Keeping your oral hygiene routine consistent is key to preserving your crowns. While crowns themselves can’t develop cavities, the teeth beneath them and the gums around them still require care and attention.

Here’s how to care for your crowns daily:

Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day: Use a gentle, soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean your teeth and crowns gently. Avoid abrasive toothpaste, as it can wear down the surface of the crown.
Floss Regularly: Flossing helps clear food debris and plaque from between your teeth and around your crown, minimizing the chances of decay and gum issues. If flossing feels challenging, try using tools like floss threaders or water flossers for easier cleaning.
Use Mouthwash: Choose an alcohol-free mouthwash to protect the adhesive bond of your crown while keeping your breath fresh and your gums healthy.

Pro Tip: Be thorough but gentle during your cleaning routine to avoid loosening the crown or irritating your gums.

Protecting Your Crowns from Damage

Dental crowns are built to withstand daily chewing, but they are not indestructible. Small habits can lead to wear and tear or even damage, so taking precautions is crucial.

Habits to avoid:

Chewing Hard Objects: Don’t bite on ice, hard candy, or pens, as these can crack or chip your crown.
Grinding Your Teeth: Grinding, especially at night, puts excessive pressure on your crowns. Consider a night guard to protect them.
Using Teeth as Tools: Never use your teeth to open bottles or packages; it’s a surefire way to cause damage.

When eating, be mindful of sticky or hard foods that might pull at or stress your crown. Cut these foods into smaller pieces to lessen the risk of damage.

Scheduling Regular Dental Checkups

Visiting your dentist in Houston regularly is a key part of maintaining your crowns. These appointments allow your local dentist to assess the condition of your crown and the tooth beneath it.

Why regular checkups matter:

Early detection of issues like decay under the crown or gum recession.
Ensuring the crown is still properly fitted and securely bonded.
Professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar buildup from areas that are difficult to reach with basic brushing and flossing.

Make it a habit to schedule dental checkups at least twice a year. If you’re overdue for a visit, search for dental crowns near you and book your appointment as soon as possible.

Recognizing Signs of Problems

Even with diligent care, crowns can develop issues over time. Knowing what to watch for can help you address problems before they worsen.

Signs your crown needs attention:

Sensitivity or Pain: This could indicate decay in the tooth under the crown or issues with the crown’s fit.
Loose Crown: If your crown feels wobbly, it may need to be re-cemented.
Visible Cracks or Chips: Any visible damage should be assessed by your dentist to avoid further complications.
Swelling or Redness: Gum irritation around the crown can signal inflammation or infection.

If you notice any of these signs, don’t delay. Contact our dentist near you for tooth crowns promptly to prevent more extensive treatment down the road.

Lifestyle Choices That Benefit Dental Crowns

Good oral health isn’t just about brushing and flossing—it’s also about making smart lifestyle choices. These decisions can directly impact the longevity of your crowns.

Healthy habits to adopt:

Eat a Balanced Diet: Reduce sugary and acidic foods that contribute to decay and opt for nutrient-rich options like vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy products.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking a great amount of water supports saliva production, which helps protect your teeth and crowns.
Quit Smoking: Smoking can damage gum health and weaken the foundation of your crowns.

Keep in mind even minor changes to your lifestyle can greatly impact the lifespan of your dental crowns.

Additional Tips for Crown Maintenance

Here are a few extra tips to keep in mind:

Avoid clenching your jaw during stressful moments.
Clean your mouth with water after consuming staining foods or beverages like coffee or wine.
Store your night guard or retainer properly to avoid contamination that could affect your crowns.

Adopting simple and consistent habits can significantly help maintain your crowns and support your overall oral health.

Wrap-Up: Protect Your Crowns, Protect Your Smile

Taking care of your dental crowns doesn’t have to be complicated. Regular brushing, flossing, and mindful eating habits are all it takes to keep your crowns in excellent shape. Don’t forget the importance of routine dental visits for professional care. For expert advice and care, visit Lynn Alan Palmer DDS. A little effort today will ensure your crowns continue to protect your smile for years to come.

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