A dental crown at our Lombard, IL practice can restore a damaged or broken-down tooth and preserve oral health. This restoration fits over the entire tooth structure to treat decay, cracks, discoloration, and more. When cared for properly, dental crowns can last upwards of 20 years. Here, Dr. Julie Glud offers up 5 tips and tricks for keeping your dental crown clean, healthy, and beautiful for many years to come.
#1: Practice good oral hygiene.
While it’s true that dental crowns are invulnerable to decay and bacteria, the underlying tooth structure is still susceptible. Therefore, it’s imperative that patients practice good oral hygiene at home. You should brush at least twice a day and floss once daily. We recommend using a fluoride toothpaste, which can help protect the natural supporting tooth structure from further decay and damage. Furthermore, patients should always use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Hard bristles can actually scratch and damage the porcelain over time.
#2: Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods.
Dental crowns are strong and durable, but they are not impervious to damage. The types of foods you eat can have a significant impact on the long-term health of your restoration. For example, sticky foods like caramels and taffy can actually dislodge the crown. Alternatively, chewing on hard candies, nuts, and other hard foods can cause your crown to chip and crack. It’s best to avoid these foods when you can, and only consume them in moderation.
#3: Treat bruxism if necessary.
Patients with bruxism chronically clench or grind their teeth together. This excessive pressure can wear down and damage restorations over time. If you suffer from bruxism, it’s important to address this issue before you have a new crown placed. Dr. Glud can fabricate a custom oral appliance for patients with bruxism. This device cushions the teeth and places the jaw in a more favorable position to protect your smile.
#4: Kick bad habits.
In addition to avoiding hard, crunchy, or sticky foods, it’s important to kick other bad habits that can damage your crown. For instance, chewing on ice can cause your restoration to chip or crack. If you chew ice often, it’s time to break that habit for good. In addition, you should never use your teeth (or your dental crowns) to tear tags off of merchandise or open packages. Teeth are for chewing; they’re not intended to be used as tools.
#5: Visit your dentist regularly.
Routine dental exams and cleanings are essential for keeping your crown in tip-top shape. Brushing and flossing at home can keep bacteria at bay between visits, but regular cleanings are necessary to clean hard-to-reach areas and remove, plaque, tartar, and harmful biofilm. We also offer topical fluoride treatments, which can keep the underlying tooth structure strong and resilient against decay and damage. During these routine visits, your dentist and hygienist will assess your crown to ensure it is in good condition. If any issues are detected, we can treat them before they worsen.
Schedule a Dental Crown Consultation in Lombard, IL
A dental crown in Lombard, IL can be placed in about two office visits. To learn more about dental crowns – or any of our other restorative or cosmetic treatments – schedule a consultation with Dr. Glud. You can contact Dental Care of Lombard online or call our office at (630) 629-5700.
