How to Properly Care for Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are one of the most common tooth restoration procedures. Over 2.3 million crowns are created annually. Crowns are caps that cover the natural teeth to repair, replace, and enhance the upper portion of the tooth (the crown). Proper crown care is essential towards your dental health. Here are some tips to help you take care of your crowns.
Care of the Temporary Crown
Initially, your dentist may place a temporary crown. A temporary crown is more fragile and requires special care that a permanent dental crown does not. While a temporary crown is in place, you should avoid chewy foods and putting too much pressure on the tooth.
You should continue to keep up with dental hygiene, but floss carefully. Slide the floss in gently and then slide the floss out the side when removing it.
Caring for Permanent Crown
Caring for a permanent dental crown is easy. You simply follow your regular oral hygiene routine. Crowns are made of durable material that is stain resistant, but not completely impervious to staining. Using a whitening toothpaste that contains fluoride will help reduce the risk of stains.
It is important that you floss regularly and pay special attention to where the crown meets the gum. Be sure that you clean between the cap and the gum line if there is any space to prevent debris from getting trapped. A water jet oral device can be a great option for anyone that has crowns.
A dental crown is strong but you do not want to put it to the test. Crowns can break, chip, and crack when they are put under too much force. So, avoid using your teeth to open things or bite down with force.
Return to the Dentist if This Occurs
If you chip or crack your crown, return to the dentist’s office as soon as possible. If your crown is causing you any pain, you should also return to the dentist as soon as possible. While most crowns are placed without any complications, if you run into any, your dentist can make adjustments.
Dental crowns really do not require any special care. You take care of them the same way you take care of your natural teeth. Ask your dentist if there are any special precautions you should take to ensure your crowns stay in great shape.