Dental crowns are a reliable solution for restoring damaged or weakened teeth. At Bear River Dental in Evanston, Dr. Nate Lester, Dr. Hayden Welch, and Dr. Chris Jorgensen offer high-quality dental crowns to help patients regain the function and appearance of their smiles. While dental crowns in Evanston are durable, proper care is essential to ensure they last for many years. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the dos and don’ts of caring for your dental crown to maintain its longevity and keep your oral health in top shape.
The Importance of Proper Care for Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are custom-made caps that fit over a damaged tooth, providing strength and improving its appearance. They can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these. Proper care and maintenance are crucial to preventing damage and ensuring the longevity of your crown.
Dos: Caring for Your Dental Crown
1. Practice Good Oral Hygiene:
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is one of the most important aspects of caring for your dental crown. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and around the crown. This helps prevent decay and gum disease, which can compromise the integrity of the crown.
2. Use Non-Abrasive Toothpaste:
When brushing, use non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the surface of your crown, especially if it’s made of porcelain or ceramic. Abrasive toothpaste can wear down the crown’s material, leading to damage over time.
3. Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods:
While dental crowns are durable, they are not indestructible. Avoid chewing on hard foods like ice, popcorn kernels, and hard candy, as these can crack or chip your crown. Sticky foods like caramel and taffy can also pull on the crown, potentially loosening it.
4. Visit Your Dentist Regularly:
Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining the health of your crown and surrounding teeth. Dr. Nate Lester, Dr. Hayden Welch, and Dr. Chris Jorgensen recommend scheduling appointments at Bear River Dental at least twice a year for professional cleanings and examinations. During these visits, they can check the condition of your crown and make any necessary adjustments or repairs.
5. Wear a Mouthguard:
Wearing a mouthguard is crucial if you engage in contact sports or grind your teeth at night (a condition known as bruxism). A custom-fitted mouthguard can protect your crown and natural teeth from damage caused by impacts or grinding.
6. Use a Night Guard if Necessary:
A night guard can be especially beneficial for those who grind their teeth at night. This protective device helps cushion the teeth and prevents excessive wear and tear on your crown.
Don’ts: What to Avoid with Dental Crowns
1. Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools:
Using your teeth to open packages, tear off tags, or hold objects can cause damage to your crown and natural teeth. Always use the appropriate tools for these tasks to prevent unnecessary stress on your dental work.
2. Don’t Ignore Discomfort or Pain:
If you experience discomfort, pain, or sensitivity around your crowned tooth, don’t ignore it. These symptoms could indicate issues such as decay under the crown, gum disease, or a problem with the fit of the crown. Contact Bear River Dental as soon as possible to address any concerns.
3. Don’t Skip Flossing:
Some patients may worry about flossing around a dental crown, fearing they might dislodge it. However, flossing is crucial for removing plaque and preventing gum disease. Use a gentle, up-and-down motion and avoid snapping the floss between the teeth.
4. Don’t Avoid Dental Visits:
Avoiding dental visits can lead to undetected issues with your crown or oral health. Regular check-ups allow Dr. Lester, Dr. Welch, and Dr. Jorgensen to monitor your crown’s condition and catch any potential problems early.
5. Don’t Consume Excessive Staining Foods and Drinks:
Certain foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and berries, can stain natural teeth and crowns. While crowns are more resistant to staining, it’s still a good idea to consume these items in moderation and practice good oral hygiene afterward.
Dental Crowns in Evanston, WY
Caring for your dental crown is essential to ensure its longevity and maintain your oral health. By following these dos and don’ts, you can protect your crown and enjoy a beautiful, functional smile for years to come. At Bear River Dental in Evanston, Dr. Nate Lester, Dr. Hayden Welch, and Dr, Chris Jorgensen provide high-quality dental care and guidance on maintaining dental restorations. If you have concerns about your dental crown or need to schedule a check-up, don’t hesitate to contact our office. Our team is here to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, confident smile.
