Dental Crown Care

How to Take Care of Your New Dental Crown

Proper dental crown care doesn’t require anything extraordinary, but it does take some good oral hygiene habits. To ensure the longevity of your dental crown, it is essential to maintain good habits. Here are key tips to ensure your crown stays in great condition:

Brush and Floss Regularly

Even with a crown, it’s essential to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean around your crown, especially at the gum line. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure when brushing around the crown to avoid damaging the tooth underneath. If you have a temporary dental crown, be extra cautious to avoid dislodging it while brushing and flossing.

Flossing around the crown helps to remove plaque and food particles that may get stuck in the area. Consider using floss threaders or an interdental brush to make flossing easier around tight spaces.

Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods

While dental crowns are durable, they can still get damaged if exposed to excessive force. Avoid chewing hard foods like ice cubes, hard candies, nuts, or popcorn kernels which can crack or chip the crown. Sticky foods such as caramel, taffy, or chewing gum can also get stuck and potentially pull the crown off. This is especially important if you have a temporary crown, as it is more susceptible to damage from hard and sticky foods.

If you’re in the habit of chewing on pencils or fingernails, it’s best to break this habit to protect your dental work.

Use Mouthguards if You Grind Your Teeth

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can wear down your dental crown prematurely. If you grind your teeth at night, talk to Dr. Addario about getting a custom mouthguard. Wearing a mouthguard can help protect both your crown and natural teeth from the damaging effects of grinding.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Regular checkups are essential to the longevity of your crown. Dr. Addario will check your crown during these visits to make sure it’s in good condition and hasn’t developed any issues like loosening, wear, or decay underneath. If any problems are detected early, they can be addressed before they lead to larger issues. During these visits, your dentist will also ensure that your permanent crown is properly fitted and in good condition.

Be Careful with Teeth Whitening Products

If you use teeth whitening products, be cautious when using them around your crowns. Whitening gels or treatments will not change the color of your crown, which could result in an uneven smile. If you’re considering whitening your teeth, consult with Dr. Addario by calling (619) 656-1788. to ensure your treatment won’t affect your crowns.

What to Do If Your Crown Becomes Loose or Damaged

Dental crowns are designed to last many years, but accidents do happen. If your crown becomes loose or damaged, here’s what you can do:

• Keep the Crown Safe: If the crown falls off, keep it in a safe place and avoid eating on that side of your mouth.

• Contact Your Dentist: Schedule an appointment with Dr. Addario as soon as possible. He may be able to reattach the crown or recommend a replacement if needed. In some cases, if the crown cannot be reattached, your dentist may recommend a dental implant as an alternative solution.

• Temporary Fix: If you can’t visit your dentist immediately, you can temporarily reseat the crown with a dental adhesive from a pharmacy. However, this is a short-term solution until you can get professional care.

Common Mistakes to Avoid after the Dental Crown Procedure

Even with the best intentions, patients sometimes make mistakes that can affect the lifespan of their dental crowns. Here are a few common errors to avoid:

• Neglecting Regular Oral Hygiene: Skipping regular brushing and flossing can lead to plaque build-up, gum disease, and decay around the crown. This is particularly important for porcelain crowns, which can be more susceptible to chipping if not properly cared for.

• Chewing on Hard Objects: Avoid biting on pencils, pens, or anything that could potentially damage your crown.

• Forgetting to Visit the Dentist: Regular check-ups are key to making sure your crown is functioning as it should.

By avoiding these mistakes and following a proper care routine, you’ll help your dental crowns last longer and keep your smile looking great.

How Smile Expert Can Keep Your Dental Crown in Tip Top Shape

At Smile Expert, we’re dedicated to providing top-quality care for your dental crowns, ensuring they stay in excellent condition for as long as possible. Here’s how we can assist you with the care and maintenance of your crowns:

Regular Dental Check-Ups

During your regular check-ups at Smile Expert, Dr. Addario and our team will thoroughly examine your dental crown to make sure it’s in good shape. We’ll check for any signs of wear, damage, or potential issues such as loosening or decay underneath the crown. If we detect any concerns early, we can address them before they cause more serious problems.

Crown Adjustments

If your crown has shifted or feels uncomfortable, Smile Expert can make necessary adjustments to ensure it fits properly. A well-fitting crown is key to maintaining comfort and function while protecting your natural tooth underneath.

Repair and Replacement

In cases where a crown becomes damaged or falls off, Smile Expert is here to help. If your crown is repairable, we can work quickly to restore it. If it needs to be replaced, we’ll guide you through the process of choosing a new crown that fits your needs and preferences. Zirconia crowns are a popular choice for replacements due to their durability and ability to withstand significant bite forces.

Personalized Oral Hygiene Advice

At Smile Expert, we go beyond standard care by offering personalized oral hygiene advice tailored to your unique needs. We’ll help you understand the best brushing and flossing techniques around your crown to avoid plaque build-up and ensure your crown stays secure. If you’re dealing with teeth grinding or other habits that could affect your crown, we’ll provide recommendations to protect your dental work.

Mouthguards for Teeth Grinding

If you suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding), we can create a custom mouthguard to protect your dental crown and natural teeth. Wearing a mouthguard while you sleep will prevent unnecessary pressure on your crown, extending its lifespan and helping you avoid costly repairs.

By entrusting Smile Expert with your dental crown care, you can rest easy knowing that we’re here to ensure your smile stays healthy, comfortable, and beautiful for years to come. Whether it’s a routine check-up or an unexpected issue, Dr. Addario and our team are ready to help!

Frequently Asked Questions

Maintain Your Crown, Maintain Your Smile in Chula Vista, CA

Caring for your dental crown may take a little extra effort, but the rewards are well worth it. By following the tips outlined above, you can help ensure that your crown remains secure and functional for years to come. If you’re in Chula Vista, CA, or nearby areas like National City, Bonita, and Otay Mesa, make sure to schedule regular visits with the best dentist in Chula Vista by calling (619) 656-1788. With the right care, your crown can continue to restore your smile and improve your oral health for the long term.