At Landmark Dental Arts in San Diego, we prioritize high-quality dental care to our patients. Whether you have recently undergone a dental crown procedure fairly recently or are considering crown treatment, it is essential to understand how to care for your new “cap” properly. Let’s take a closer look at the basics of dental crowns, maintenance, and longevity. It can help to ensure that your investment in your oral health pays off for years to come.
What are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a cap-like structure that is placed over a damaged tooth or implant to restore tooth shape, size, strength, and appearance. Dental crowns can be made of various materials, including ceramic, porcelain, metal, or a combination of these materials, depending on the patient’s needs and preferences. They are a popular dental treatment option for teeth that have experienced significant decay, damage, or discoloration. Especially when the extent of damage cannot be fixed with a filling or other dental procedure due to how much space it takes up.
Maintaining Dental Crowns
Taking care of your dental crowns is essential to ensure their longevity and to avoid potential dental problems. A lot of the time people are worried that they’ll pull their new crown off their tooth. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Brush and Floss Regularly: Dental crowns, just like natural teeth, require regular brushing and flossing to keep them clean and healthy. Brush your teeth twice a day, for at least two minutes, and floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles that can accumulate around the crown and cause decay or gum disease. If the crown isn’t cleaned well, new cavities can form and cause the crown to fall off (requiring total replacement.) Flossing is important to ensure your crown keeps a tight seal around your tooth. Our Kearny Mesa dentist or dental hygienist can show you the best way to floss, even if the area is a little tight.
Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: Dental crowns are durable, but they are not indestructible. Avoid chewing really hard or sticky foods, such as ice, hard candy, or caramel, as they could potentially damage or dislodge the crown. Especially if you’re wearing a temporary crown while the permanent one is being made. If you do indulge in hard or sticky foods, make sure to chew on the opposite side of your mouth.
Wear a Mouthguard: If you play sports or grind your teeth at night, wear a mouthguard to protect your dental crown from damage. A custom-fitted mouthguard can be made to fit your mouth comfortably and offer optimal protection for both your teeth and TMJ.
Avoid Bad Habits: Avoid bad habits that can damage your dental crowns, such as biting your nails, using your teeth as tools, or smoking. These habits can weaken the tooth or cause your crown to chip or crack.
Increasing the Life of Dental Crowns
With proper care and maintenance, dental crowns can last for several years. Here are some ways to increase the life of your dental crowns:
Visit Our Kearny Mesa Dentist Regularly: Regular dental checkups are essential to maintain good oral health and identify any potential problems with your dental crowns. We can check the fit and function of the crown, identify any signs of decay or gum disease, and recommend any necessary treatments to keep your crown in optimal condition.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene: In addition to regular dental checkups, practicing good oral hygiene is essential to increase the life of your dental crowns. Brush and floss regularly, avoid sugary or acidic foods and drinks, and use an antimicrobial mouthwash to kill bacteria and prevent gum disease.
Dental Crowns in San Diego
If you are looking for a reliable and experienced dentist for your dental crown procedure in San Diego, look no further than Landmark Dental Arts. Our team of dental professionals is committed to providing personalized and compassionate care to all our patients. We use the latest technology and techniques to ensure that our patients receive the best possible treatment and results.
Schedule Your Consultation
Dental crowns are an effective solution for damaged or decayed teeth, but they require proper care and maintenance to ensure their longevity. By following these tips, you can keep your dental crowns in optimal condition and avoid potential dental problems. Contact Landmark Dental Arts today to reserve your next crown consultation.