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Getting a dental crown is a common treatment offered by a dentist near Marpole to help protect a damaged tooth and keep your smile healthy. A dental crown covers your tooth, making it stronger and preventing further damage. But just like your natural teeth, a crown needs daily care. If you take care of it properly, it can last many years. Here are some simple tips from a dentist to help you keep your dental crown in good shape.
1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Even though a crown is made of strong materials like porcelain or metal, it can still be affected by plaque and bacteria. Brushing and flossing are very important.
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristle toothbrush.
- Use fluoride toothpaste to protect both your natural teeth and your crown.
- Floss carefully around the crown to remove food particles. You can use a floss threader if needed.
Tip from a dentist: Make sure you clean the area where your crown meets the gum. Plaque can build up there and cause decay to the tooth under the crown.
2. Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods
Your dental crown is strong, but it can still crack or loosen if you eat the wrong foods. Avoid biting directly on very hard foods, like ice, hard candies, or nuts. Sticky foods like caramel or chewing gum can pull the crown off.
Example: If you love candy, try softer options or cut them into small pieces so you don’t damage your crown.
3. Use a Night Guard if Needed
Some people grind their teeth at night. This can put too much pressure on your crown and even damage it. Your dentist may recommend a night guard. Wearing it can protect your dental crowns and your natural teeth.
Tip: Even if you don’t grind your teeth often, using a night guard can help prevent accidental damage, especially for back teeth crowns.
4. Watch for Signs of Problems
After getting a crown, it’s important to notice any issues early. Contact your dental clinic in Richmond if you notice:
- Pain or sensitivity around the crown
- Looseness of the crown
- Swelling or redness in the gums
- Chips or cracks in the crown
Early care can prevent bigger problems and save your crown from needing replacement.
5. Avoid Using Teeth as Tools
Never use your teeth to open packages, bite nails, or chew on pens. This puts unnecessary pressure on your crown and can cause damage. Always use scissors or other tools instead.
6. Regular Dental Checkups
Visiting your dentist regularly is key to keeping your crown healthy. During checkups, your dentist will:
- Check the crown for damage or wear.
- Clean areas you might miss at home.
- Make sure your bite is correct to avoid pressure on the crown.
Regular checkups can enhance the longevity of your dental crown and keep your mouth healthy.
Additional Tips
- After meals, rinse your mouth with water to remove leftover food.
- Chew slowly and try to use both sides of your mouth to balance pressure.
- Refrain from chewing hard foods until you see the dentist if your crown is loose.
Why Daily Care Matters
Caring for your dental crown is not just about keeping it shiny. It protects the tooth underneath. If bacteria cause decay under the crown, you might need more treatment or even a new crown. Daily care keeps your smile healthy, your bite comfortable, and your crown lasting longer.
Reminder: Crowns are durable, but they are not indestructible. Your daily care habits make a big difference in their longevity.
When to Call Your Dental Clinic
Even with good care, crowns can sometimes need adjustment. Call your dental clinic if:
- You notice pain when biting.
- The crown feels loose or shifts.
- There is unusual sensitivity to hot or cold.
- You see visible cracks or chips.
Your dentist can fix most issues early, which is easier and less expensive than replacing the crown.
Final Thoughts
A dental crown is an investment in your oral health. With proper care, it can last 10–15 years or longer. Listen to your dentist’s advice and pay attention to your crown. Daily care keeps your teeth healthy and your smile looking great.
Taking care of your dental crowns in Richmond doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple steps every day make a big difference. Treat your crown like your natural tooth, and it will keep your mouth healthy for many years.
Restore Your Tooth Strength with a Crown
At River Road Dental, we help strengthen your teeth with dental crowns. Our skilled team carefully fits each crown to protect damaged teeth and support a healthy bite. We use safe materials and follow professional dental practices to make sure your treatment is comfortable. Book your appointment today and keep your teeth protected!
Getting here is simple — just follow us on Google Maps for the best route. 📍
