Caring for Your Dental Crown: Simple Tips for Long-Lasting Results
Getting a dental crown at Artistic Dentistry is a great way to restore a damaged or weakened tooth. Crowns are designed to look natural, feel comfortable, and restore full function to your smile. While they’re strong and durable, they still need proper care to ensure they last as long as possible. Caring for a dental crown is simple and very similar to caring for your natural teeth.
Here’s how you can keep your crown (and your smile) in top shape for years to come.
Practice excellent oral hygiene
Even though a crown itself can’t get a cavity, the tooth underneath it still can. That’s why brushing and flossing daily is essential.
- Brush twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Be gentle around the crown area to protect your gums.
- Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth and around the crown. When flossing, slide the floss out rather than snapping it up and down to avoid loosening the crown.
Keeping the area around your crown clean helps prevent decay at the margin (where the crown meets the natural tooth) and reduces your risk of gum disease.
Be mindful of what you eat
Dental crowns are strong, but they’re not indestructible. To avoid damaging or dislodging your crown:
- Avoid chewing on objects such as ice, pens, or fingernails.
- Be cautious with sticky foods like caramel or taffy, which can pull on the crown.
- If you enjoy crunchy foods, try chewing on the opposite side of your mouth when possible.
Maintaining a balanced diet that’s low in sugary snacks also helps protect the underlying tooth from decay.
Address teeth grinding
If you grind or clench your teeth, especially at night, you may be putting extra pressure on your crown. Over time, this can lead to wear, cracks, or even crown failure. If you suspect you grind your teeth, talk to our team. A custom night guard can protect your crown and natural teeth, extending their lifespans.
Keep up with regular dental visits
Routine dental checkups and cleanings are key to the longevity of dental crowns. During your visits, your dentist will:
- Check the integrity and fit of your crown
- Look for signs of wear or damage
- Ensure the surrounding gum tissue is healthy
Professional cleanings also remove plaque buildup in hard-to-reach areas, helping prevent complications before they start.
Pay attention to changes
Your crown should feel comfortable and function just like a natural tooth. If you notice sensitivity, pain when biting, looseness, or a change in how your bite feels, don’t ignore it. Early intervention can often prevent more serious issues.
How long do dental crowns last?
With proper care, dental crowns can last 10 to 15 years or even longer. Some patients enjoy decades of reliable performance. Your daily habits and commitment to oral health play a significant role in your lifespan.
A dental crown is an investment in your smile, confidence, and overall oral health. By brushing, flossing, making wise food choices, and keeping up with regular dental visits, you can help ensure your crown stays strong and beautiful for many years to come. If you ever have questions about caring for your crown, your Artistic Dentistry team is always here to help!