Getting a dental crown is a common and often effective solution for restoring damaged teeth. However, the work doesn’t stop once you leave the dentist’s chair. Proper aftercare is crucial to ensure the longevity of your crown and to maintain the health of the surrounding teeth and gums. Taking the time to understand how to maintain your crown can help you keep your smile healthy and functional for years to come.
Be Gentle After the Procedure
Right after the crown is placed, your mouth may feel sore or sensitive. Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the crown was placed for at least 24 hours to give the cement time to fully set. Soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, or soup can help minimize discomfort during this period.
You may also experience some gum tenderness or inflammation around the crown. A warm saltwater rinse can soothe the area and reduce swelling. Just mix half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and rinse gently a couple of times a day.
Watch What You Eat
Even after the initial healing period, it’s wise to be cautious about the types of foods you eat. Crowns are durable but not indestructible. Sticky foods like caramel or chewing gum can pull at the crown, potentially dislodging it. Hard items such as ice, nuts, or hard candies can cause the crown to crack or chip. Limiting sugary and acidic foods is also important, not because they harm the crown directly, but because they can lead to decay in the natural tooth underneath. A crown covers the tooth, but it doesn’t make it immune to cavities. The edges where the crown meets your natural enamel are particularly susceptible to decay.
Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene
A dental crown may cover and protect a damaged tooth, but maintaining good oral hygiene is still essential. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily helps prevent plaque buildup around the crown and the gumline. Pay special attention when flossing near the crown. Slide the floss gently out rather than snapping it up and down, which can loosen the crown. Using an antibacterial mouthwash can provide extra protection against bacteria that could cause decay or gum disease. Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings are equally important. They help monitor the condition of the crown and your overall oral health.
Be Aware of Changes or Discomfort
A properly fitted crown should feel like a natural part of your mouth. If your bite feels off, or if you experience persistent pain or sensitivity, contact your dentist. These symptoms could indicate that the crown is too high or that the underlying tooth is inflamed or infected. Similarly, if the crown feels loose or moves when you chew or brush, it’s a sign that it may need to be refitted or re-cemented. Also, keep in mind that crowns can occasionally fall off. If this happens, don’t panic. Rinse the crown and the exposed tooth gently with warm water, store the crown in a clean container, and contact your dentist as soon as possible to have it reattached.
Long-Term Care and Maintenance
With proper care, a dental crown can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or even longer. Avoiding habits like grinding your teeth, biting your nails, or using your teeth to open packaging can significantly extend its lifespan. If you grind your teeth at night, your dentist may recommend a custom nightguard to protect both the crown and your natural teeth.
Dental Crown Treatment in Alpharetta, GA
At Esthetic Dental Solutions, we are dedicated to your oral health. If you have decay or damage, a dental crown could help restore your bite and smile. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your restorative dentistry treatment options.