Dental crowns are essential for restoring damaged teeth. They could improve both function and appearance, offering a protective layer that mimics the natural tooth. Proper care ensures a crown’s longevity, while neglect can lead to complications. Understanding how to care for a dental crown is essential for maintaining oral health.
Understanding Dental Crowns
A dental crown covers a tooth entirely, often restoring its shape, size, and strength. Crowns are made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, and metal. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks. Porcelain and ceramic crowns offer a natural appearance, closely resembling real teeth. Metal crowns, often made from gold or alloys, provide exceptional durability. Your dentist will recommend the best option based on your needs.
Maintaining Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is crucial for the longevity of your dental crown. Brush your teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush. This prevents damage to the crown’s surface. Choose a fluoride toothpaste to strengthen the teeth and protect against decay. Flossing is equally important, as it removes plaque and food particles between teeth and crowns. Use a floss threader if needed to clean around the crown effectively.
Consider using an antibacterial mouthwash. It helps reduce bacteria and plaque, providing an extra layer of protection. Regular dental check-ups are vital for monitoring the crown’s condition. Your dentist will examine the crown and surrounding teeth to ensure everything remains healthy.
Preventing Damage
Preventing damage to your dental crown is essential for its longevity. Avoid chewing hard foods, such as ice, hard candy, and nuts, as they can crack or chip the crown. Refrain from using your teeth as tools. Opening packages with your teeth is risky and can damage the crown. If you grind your teeth at night, wear a mouthguard. Bruxism can wear down crowns, leading to costly repairs. A custom-fitted mouthguard helps protect your dental work. Avoid clenching your teeth during stress. Stress management techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, could help reduce tension.
Addressing Sensitivity
Some people experience sensitivity after getting a crown. This sensitivity usually subsides within a few days. Use toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth to alleviate discomfort. Avoid extremely hot or cold foods initially, as they can trigger sensitivity. If sensitivity persists, consult your dentist. They may suggest further treatment, such as adjusting the crown’s fit. Persistent sensitivity could indicate an underlying issue, so do not ignore it. Your dentist can provide solutions to ensure your comfort and oral health.
Monitoring for Issues
Stay alert for signs of problems with your dental crown. A loose crown can lead to decay and infection. If your crown feels loose, contact your dentist immediately. They can secure it before further damage occurs. Pain around the crowned tooth is another warning sign. It could indicate an underlying issue, such as decay or infection. Swelling or redness around the crown requires attention as well. Early intervention often prevents further complications and ensures the crown’s longevity. Regular dental visits allow your dentist to catch issues early, providing timely solutions.
Replacing a Dental Crown
Crowns do not last forever. Their lifespan depends on care, material, and oral habits. Regular dental visits help monitor their condition. Your dentist will advise when a replacement is necessary. Replacing a crown promptly often prevents damage to the underlying tooth. Neglecting a worn crown can lead to more extensive dental work. Replacement involves removing the old crown and preparing the tooth for a new one. The process ensures continued protection and functionality for the tooth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it typically take to get a dental crown placed?
Getting a tooth crown usually takes two visits. The first visit involves preparing the tooth, taking impressions, and placing a temporary crown. The permanent crown is placed about 2 to 3 weeks later. In some offices with CEREC technology, the crown can be made and put on the same day.
What should I avoid eating right after getting a crown?
Right after getting a crown, we suggest you avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods until the numbness wears off and the crown fully settles. Chewing on the opposite side for the first day helps protect the area. If you have a temporary crown, be cautious with foods that could dislodge or crack it.
Is it normal for a dental crown to feel slightly different than my natural tooth?
Yes, it’s normal for a crown to feel a bit different at first. It may feel slightly higher or smoother compared to your natural teeth. Most patients adjust within a few days. If it still feels off or uncomfortable after a week, let us know so we can fine-tune the fit.
Can a crowned tooth still get a cavity?
Yes, a crowned tooth can still develop cavities. It can develop at the border where the crown meets your natural tooth structure. This area can collect plaque if you don’t brush and floss thoroughly. Bacteria can work their way under the crown and attack the remaining tooth structure. Regular dental checkups help catch these problems early before they cause pain or damage the tooth beneath your crown.
What’s the difference between a temporary crown and a permanent one?
A temporary crown is made from softer materials and is meant to protect your tooth while the permanent crown is being made. It’s not as strong or precisely fitted. The permanent crown is custom-made, durable, and designed to last for years with proper care.
Can I whiten a dental crown if it becomes stained over time?
No, crowns don’t respond to whitening treatments like natural teeth do. If your crown becomes stained, professional cleaning may help remove surface stains. If the color no longer matches your other teeth, replacing the crown may be the best option. We’ll help you decide what works best for your smile.
Restorative Dentistry in Sahuarita, AZ
At Sahuarita Premier Dentistry, your oral health is our top priority. Taking care of a new dental crown can seem daunting at first. But with the right maintenance routine, you could enjoy a stronger bite for up to fifteen years without needing a replacement. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your restorative dentistry treatment options.