Congratulations on getting a new dental crown! While it’s an effective way to restore a damaged tooth, improve your smile, and get a sense of relief—-taking care of your dental crown might feel daunting. Don’t worry, it’s not.
Think of your dental crown as a special kind of tooth that needs a little extra TLC (tender loving care). Much like you usually take care of your natural teeth by brushing and flossing, following a few simple guidelines will allow you to maintain your crown and make it last for years to come.
Discover 7 tips that will help you ensure the integrity and longevity of your dental crown, also you can visit our site to know more about dental crowns in Dubai
1- Gentle Brushing is Key
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush is crucial. Hard bristles can scratch the surface of the crown or even wear down the enamel on your surrounding teeth. Gently brush in circular motions, paying close attention to the area around the crown and the adjacent teeth. Don’t forget to brush along the gum line to prevent plaque buildup. Repeat this twice a day or once after every meal with no less than two minutes for each brush.
2- Flossing Remains Essential
Sometimes, even the most thorough brushing can fail to complete the job. Food particles can get trapped under the crown or between the teeth and can easily be missed during brushing. Flossing is vital to remove these particles and prevent plaque buildup, preventing potential cavities. Use dental floss or interdental cleaners to gently guide the floss under the crown and between your teeth. If you’re having trouble flossing around your crown, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist for some helpful tips and techniques.
3- Watch What You Eat
It’s important to be mindful of what you eat to avoid damaging your crown. Hard, sticky, or chewy foods can easily chip or even dislodge the crown. So, say goodbye to hard candies, ice, nuts, and taffy for now. Try to avoid biting down directly on the crown, especially when chewing hard foods. Limiting sugary treats is also important, as sugar can contribute to cavities around the crown and the surrounding teeth.
4- Limit Grinding and Clenching
If you grind your teeth at night (bruxism), it can put extra stress on your crown and may eventually break or dislodge it. Consider wearing a mouthguard at night to protect your teeth and crown. If you find yourself clenching your teeth due to stress, try some relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga to help you unwind.
5- Regular Dental Checkups are a Must
Scheduling and keeping your regular dental checkups is essential. You should aim for a visit every 6 months. These appointments allow your dentist to monitor the health of your crown and identify any potential problems early on. Additionally, professional cleanings are crucial for removing any plaque or tartar buildup that could affect the crown and the surrounding teeth.
6- Pay Attention to Any Signs of Trouble
If you experience any pain, sensitivity, or discomfort around the crown, contact your dentist immediately. If the crown feels loose or wobbly, schedule an appointment for repair or replacement as soon as possible. If you notice any chips, cracks, or discoloration in the crown, let your dentist know right away. Don’t keep anything up to chance when it comes to the integrity of your dental crown. Being proactive and early is always the safer and better option.
7- Understanding the Limitations
While dental crowns are very durable, they are not indestructible. They can still be damaged or wear down over time. It’s important to avoid using your crown to open bottles or tear packages, as this can put undue stress on the crown and lead to breakage. This advice is not limited to your dental crowns. All your teeth, whether natural or not, shouldn’t be used as tools.
Author bio:
Dr. Nabil Mockbil is an Orthodontist who received his DDS in 2001 from Umea University in Sweden, regarded as having the best dentist programme in Sweden for undergraduates. He’s now the founder of Swedish Dental Clinic – Dubai Marina.
