Dental crowns are world-renowned for their ability to alleviate various dental concerns. They are an effective solution for restoring damaged teeth, providing both aesthetic and functional benefits. However, like natural teeth, crowns require regular care to maintain their appearance and longevity. Crowns are durable. There is no doubt about that. However, providing them with extra care and protection against wear and damage can protect their durable characteristics! 

To fully protect dental crowns in Honolulu HI dental experts recommend following some expert tips. These tips may seem simple, but are genuinely effective in the long-term. Here’s what you know:

Regular Brushing and Flossing

One of the most important steps in caring for your dental crowns is to maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily. Even though crowns are resistant to decay, the underlying tooth and surrounding gums are still susceptible to plaque buildup and gum disease.

Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods

Dental crowns are durable, but they aren’t indestructible. To prolong the life of your crowns, it’s a good idea to avoid excessively hard or sticky foods that can damage the crown or loosen it. Foods like hard candies, ice, nuts, or chewy caramels can exert too much pressure on the crown, causing it to chip or become dislodged.

Use a Soft Bristle Toothbrush

When brushing, it’s important to use a toothbrush with soft bristles to avoid damaging the crown’s surface and irritating the gums. Hard bristles can wear down the crown over time, leading to surface abrasions or discomfort around the gum line.

Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

Even with diligent at-home care, regular dental checkups are essential for keeping your crowns and overall oral health in good shape. During your dental visits, your dentist will examine the condition of your crown, check for any signs of wear or damage, and ensure that it is securely in place.

Avoid Teeth Grinding or Clenching

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common habit that can cause significant damage to both natural teeth and dental crowns. Grinding or clenching your teeth can exert excessive pressure on your crowns, leading to cracks, chips, or loosening of the crown itself.

Consider a Night Guard if Needed

For individuals who grind their teeth or have a habit of clenching their jaw while they sleep, using a night guard is highly recommended. A night guard acts as a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, reducing the strain on your crowns and preventing them from cracking or breaking.

Be Mindful of Temperature Sensitivity

Some patients may experience mild sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures after getting a dental crown. This can happen if the tooth beneath the crown is still adjusting to the restoration. While this sensitivity typically fades over time, it’s important to be mindful of very hot or cold foods and drinks during the adjustment period.

Use Fluoride Mouthwash for Added Protection

While the crown itself won’t decay, the tooth beneath it can still be at risk of cavities or infection. To provide extra protection to your crowned tooth, consider incorporating a fluoride mouthwash into your daily routine. Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and can reduce the risk of decay around the edges of the crown.

Your dental crowns can significantly change your life for the better, but only if you let them! Dental crowns stand to benefit greatly from some love and care. All you need to do is be mindful of these tips, and actually apply them in your daily life! But most importantly, ensure that you get the right care instructions from your dentist too!