Caring for Dental Crowns in Hilliard, OH

How to Maintain Your Dental Crowns for a Long-Lasting Smile

Dental crowns are a reliable solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth, offering strength, protection, and a natural appearance. Whether you have porcelain crowns, ceramic crowns, or zirconia crowns, proper care is essential to ensure their durability and keep your smile looking great.

At our Hilliard, OH, dental office, we provide guidance on dental crown care and maintenance. Call us at (614) 771-6060 to schedule an appointment. We proudly serve patients in Columbus, Dublin, Upper Arlington, Grove City, Westerville, and surrounding areas.

Why Dental Crown Care Is Crucial

Taking care of your dental crowns helps prevent issues like tooth decay, gum disease, and premature crown replacement. Key benefits include:

• Healing and Recovery: After crown placement, your gums need time to heal. Following your dentist’s aftercare advice minimizes discomfort and reduces complications.
• Longevity: Proper care can make your dental crowns last 10 years or longer, saving you the need for early replacement.
• Oral Health: Good oral hygiene habits protect the natural tooth underneath your crown, preventing decay and plaque buildup.

Essential Tips for Caring for Your Dental Crowns

1. Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Maintaining good oral hygiene is vital for keeping your crowns and natural teeth healthy. Follow these steps:

1. Brush your teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
2. Floss daily, paying special attention to the gumline and the area around the crown. Use floss threaders or a water flosser for hard-to-reach areas.
3. Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce plaque and food particles that can lead to gum disease.

2. Be Mindful of What You Eat

Avoid foods that could damage your crowns or loosen temporary crowns:

• Hard foods: Ice cubes, popcorn kernels, and hard candy can chip or crack your crowns.
• Sticky foods: Caramel, taffy, and chewy candies may dislodge crowns.
• Sugary foods: Limit sugary snacks and beverages to prevent decay around the crown.

3. Protect Your Crowns

Protect your crowns to avoid cracking or loosening them.

• Wear a night guard if you grind or clench your teeth to prevent cracks or wear.
• Use a mouthguard during contact sports to protect your dental work from trauma.

Temporary Dental Crown Care

If you’ve received a temporary dental crown while waiting for a permanent one, take extra precautions:

• Avoid sticky foods that might dislodge the crown.
• Chew on the opposite side of your mouth.
• Brush gently and avoid flossing directly around the temporary crown.

Lifestyle Tips for Long-Lasting Crowns

1. Avoid Staining Substances

While crowns resist stains better than natural teeth, they aren’t stain-proof. Minimize coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco use to maintain a bright, natural smile.

2. Monitor Oral Health Changes

Pay attention to any unusual sensations like looseness, sensitivity, or discomfort. Contact your dentist immediately if you experience these issues to avoid further complications.

3. Schedule Regular Checkups

Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. These visits allow your dentist to monitor your crowns and address potential problems early, ensuring they fit properly and function as intended.