Dental crowns are among the most common types of dental restorations, with millions of people in America having at least one crown. For some people, a dental crown may last 15 years or longer, while others may need to replace their crown after just five years. Read on for everything to know about taking care of your dental crown so that it lasts as long as possible.
Why Would I Need a Dental Crown?
Dental crowns protect natural teeth that have experienced some type of damage or decay. Dental crowns can be used to salvage teeth suffering from the following:
Decay
Teeth that have significant decay and cannot be restored with a dental filling will need to be crowned.
Cracks
Fractured or cracked teeth are often treated with dental crowns to prevent injury and protect the tooth from a complete split, leading to tooth loss.
Infection
If you develop an infection inside a tooth, it will need to be treated with a root canal, and then covered with a dental crown.
Cosmetic Improvement
A severely chipped, stained, or discolored tooth may need to be covered with a dental crown
Worn Out Tooth
A tooth that is worn down, often from an improper bite, or from clenching or grinding the teeth will need to be restored with a dental crown.
Dental crowns are also used to restore missing teeth. For example, dental crowns may be placed on the teeth adjacent to a gap to support a dental bridge. Likewise, the visible portion of dental implants are dental crowns.
Tips for Making Your Dental Crown Last as Long as Possible
Dental crowns do not require special care, but they do require that you practice excellent oral hygiene habits. You should brush your teeth twice daily for a full two minutes each time. You should floss your teeth or use a water flosser daily. You should also see the dentist twice yearly for cleanings and examinations.
Other tips to ensure your dental crown lasts as long as possible include:
- Do Not Chew on Non-Foods
Pens, fingernails, or any other non-food items can damage or loosen a dental crown
- Never Use Your Teeth as Tools
You should never use your teeth, or a tooth restored with a crown to open a package, bottle, box, or any other item.
- Avoid Chewy or Especially Hard Foods
Gummy candies, taffy, and other extremely sticky, chewy food can pull on your crown, causing it to come loose. Likewise, even though crowns are strong, hard candies, popcorn, and ice cubes can damage them, so limit consumption or avoid them.
- Wear a Sports Guard
If you play sports, you should always wear a mouthguard to protect natural and crowned teeth.
- Wear a Custom Mouth Guard if You Clench or Grind
Clenching and grinding teeth at night is not uncommon but it is extremely harmful to your teeth including teeth with dental crowns. A custom mouthguard from your dentist will protect your teeth from damage.
Same Day Dental Crowns in Midtown NYC
If you need to replace an existing crown, or you’re experiencing tooth pain, book an appointment with Meridian Dental Group in Midtown NYC by calling 212-813-0850. If you prefer you may send us a message, and our staff will contact you to confirm your appointment