How Do You Care for Your New Dental Crown?
You just got a dental crown. Maybe you’re relieved the procedure’s over, but now you’re probably wondering—how do I take care of this thing? Crowns are sturdy, but they need a little TLC to last. The right habits can keep your crown strong, looking good, and feeling comfortable. Let’s talk about what works (and what doesn’t), with some advice straight from our dentist in Houston.
What is a dental crown?
Think of it like a cap that covers a damaged tooth, restoring its appearance and function. Dentists use various materials, such as porcelain, ceramic, and metal. Porcelain is popular because it blends in so well with your natural teeth, while metal crowns are the heavy-duty option if you’re worried about strength.
No matter why you got your crown (maybe for a chipped tooth, or just to improve your smile), how you treat it makes a big difference for your overall dental health.
So, let’s get into the essentials of dental crown care:
1. Keep Up with Brushing and Flossing
A crown doesn’t mean you get to skip brushing and flossing. If anything, you want to be extra careful around your new crown. Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and floss once a day, making sure you clean around the crown. It’ll keep bacteria and food bits out and help prevent gum issues.
2. Watch What You Eat
Crave hard or sticky foods? Not the best food items right now. Biting into ice, caramel, or hard candy can crack or loosen your crown, and that’s just a concern you don’t need. Stick with soft foods and chew carefully to make your fillings last longer.
3. If You Grind Your Teeth, Get a Mouthguard
Nighttime teeth grinding puts a ton of pressure on your crown. If you know you clench or grind while you sleep, ask your dentist in Houston about a custom mouthguard. It’s a simple way to protect your crown (and your other teeth, too).
4. Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools
Opening a bag with your teeth or biting off a tag—not the best move for your dental health. It’s one of the quickest ways to wreck both your crown and your natural teeth. Just use a pair of scissors instead to complete the task.
5. See Your Dentist Regularly
Routine checkups are essential. Your dentist will make sure your crown still fits right and that everything underneath is healthy. If your teeth feel sensitive or the crown feels loose, book an appointment with Houston Heights Dentistry. Catching problems early saves you a lot of hassle.
6. Pay Attention to Any Problems
If your crown hurts, feels unusual, or starts to move, don’t ignore it. Sometimes crowns can loosen, or the tooth underneath can begin to decay. The sooner you deal with it, the easier it is to fix.
Why should you be careful to take care of crowns?
Crowns restore teeth’s function, protect them from further damage, and prevent them from becoming sensitive to hot or cold. That means you can eat, drink, and smile without worry.
If you’re in Houston and need help with a new crown, don’t delay seeing a dentist. Regular visits to our dental office and good home oral care habits go a long way toward keeping your crown and the rest of your teeth in great shape.
FAQs
1. How long do dental crowns last?
Dental crowns typically last between 10 to 15 years, depending on the material used and how well you care for them.
2. Can I whiten my dental crown?
Dental crowns made of porcelain or ceramic don’t respond to whitening treatments. However, your dentist may be able to replace the crown if you want a bright smile.
3. Is it normal for my dental crown to feel a bit strange at first?
Yes, it can take some time to get used to the feeling of a new dental crown. If you experience persistent discomfort, consult your dentist.
4. Can I still get cavities under my dental crown?
While the crown itself is protected from cavities, the underlying tooth can still develop decay. Regular dental checkups can help catch any issues early.
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