Dental crowns are a common and often effective way to restore damaged teeth, improving both function and appearance. Whether you’ve just had a crown placed or you’re looking to maintain an older one, knowing how to properly care for it is essential. With the right habits, a dental crown can last for many years and help preserve your overall oral health.
Understanding Your Dental Crown
A dental crown is essentially a cap that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth. It can be made from various materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these. Each material has its strengths, but all crowns need similar care to remain effective and attractive. While crowns are designed to be durable, they are not invincible. They can chip, crack, or become loose over time, especially if they’re not properly maintained.
Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
Just because a crowned tooth isn’t natural doesn’t mean you can neglect it. Plaque and bacteria can still build up around the crown and gumline, potentially leading to gum disease or decay in the underlying tooth structure. Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and using fluoride toothpaste is a great start. Flossing daily is just as important, especially around the area where the crown meets the gum. Using a water flosser or interdental brush can also help keep the area clean without disturbing the crown.
Be Mindful of Your Diet
Crowns are strong, but they can still be damaged by the wrong foods. Sticky foods like caramels or chewing gum can tug at the crown and possibly dislodge it, while hard items such as ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candies can cause chipping or cracking. It’s also smart to avoid excessive consumption of highly pigmented foods and beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine, especially if you have a porcelain crown. These can stain the surrounding teeth, making your crown stand out in comparison.
Avoid Using Your Teeth as Tools
It might be tempting to use your teeth to open packaging or cut through thread, but this habit can put unnecessary pressure on your crown. Using your teeth for anything other than eating increases the risk of damage not just to your crown, but to your natural teeth as well. Keep tools handy and resist the urge to use your mouth as a multitasker.
Watch for Signs of Trouble
Even with proper care, issues can arise. If you start to feel discomfort, sensitivity, or notice a change in the way your bite feels, it could be a sign that the crown is loose or that decay is forming underneath. You might also feel sharp edges if the crown chips. These symptoms shouldn’t be ignored, as prompt attention from your dentist can prevent further complications.
Regular Dental Visits Are Key
Seeing your dentist regularly, typically every six months, is essential for keeping your dental crown and surrounding teeth in good shape. During these visits, your dentist will examine the crown for any signs of wear or damage and ensure that the underlying tooth and surrounding gums are healthy. Professional cleanings can also remove plaque buildup in hard-to-reach areas that you might miss at home.
The Long-Term Outlook
With consistent care and attention, a dental crown can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, and sometimes even longer. How long yours lasts depends largely on your daily habits and how quickly you respond to any dental concerns. By treating your crown as you would a natural tooth, you’re giving it the best chance at a long, functional life.
Dental Crown Care in Indianapolis, IN
At Harden Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, your oral health is our top priority. We always strive to preserve your natural tooth structure. If you have deep decay or damage, a dental crown could prevent the need for extraction. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how to care for your dental restorations.
