Losing part of a tooth can affect everything, from how you eat to how you smile. After investing time and money into dental crowns in Sylvan Lake, watching that work wear down is discouraging. Crowns protect your teeth, but they need care, too. Without the right habits, a crown can crack, loosen, or fail. That means more appointments, more pain, and more costs. To help your crown last for years, here’s a simple guide you can follow every day.
Why Crown Care Is Important
Even though crowns are made from strong materials like ceramic or metal, they’re not unbreakable.
Poor care can lead to damage, gum infections, or even the loss of the tooth underneath. Protecting your crown means protecting your whole smile.
Crowns act like a shield over a damaged tooth. But just like any protective covering, they wear down if ignored. Keeping your gums healthy around the crown is just as important as maintaining the crown itself.
Smart Habits for Daily Crown Maintenance
1. Brush and Floss the Right Way
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush gently twice a day and floss daily. Take special care around the edges of the crown to keep your gums clean and healthy.
If floss gets stuck or frays near your crown, you may be flossing incorrectly, or the crown could be ill-fitting. In either case, it’s best to ask a dental clinic in Sylvan Lake to take a closer look.
2. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Regular checkups at a dental clinic near you help your dentist keep track of your crown’s condition. Small issues can be spotted and fixed before they turn into bigger problems.
Routine exams also include professional cleaning, which removes buildup that your toothbrush can’t reach, especially around your crown.
What Foods to Avoid with Dental Crowns
Hard and sticky foods are the top enemies of your crown. Be careful with:
- Hard candy
- Ice cubes
- Caramel or chewing gum
- Crunchy bread or raw vegetables
Knowing what foods to avoid with dental crowns helps prevent cracks, loosening, or crown dislodgement.
Try cutting tough foods into smaller pieces and chewing them slowly. This takes pressure off your crown and keeps it safe for longer.
Watch for Warning Signs
Pay attention to:
- Sudden pain while biting
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Feeling like the crown is loose or unstable
These are signs your crown needs immediate attention. A dental clinic near you can check for damage and help avoid further issues.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
The typical lifespan of a dental crown is five to fifteen years. With good maintenance, some endure longer. Your lifetime is significantly influenced by your food, dental health, and lifestyle choices.
Materials are also important. Your dentist will decide what is best for you, although porcelain fused to metal crowns might last longer than all-resin crowns.
Who Should Get Dental Crowns?
You may need a crown if you have:
- A tooth weakened by decay or trauma
- A tooth that had a root canal
- A large filling with little natural tooth left
People with healthy gums and good hygiene are usually good candidates. A consultation with a dentist will confirm your options. Some people may need treatment for gum disease or decay before a crown can be placed.
Simple Dental Crown Care Tips to Remember
Here are some quick dental crown care tips to make sure your crown stays strong:
- Keep your teeth out of parcels.
- Should you grind your teeth, wear a mouthguard.
- Pay attention to any discomfort or odd feelings.
- Reduce your intake of sugary snacks.
These habits protect both your crown and the tooth underneath.
Also, avoid nail-biting or chewing on pens and pencils; these unconscious habits can slowly damage your dental work.
Don’t Wait for the Damage to Begin
Neglecting your dental crown could lead to decay, gum issues, or complete tooth loss. The cost of replacing or repairing a damaged crown is much higher than caring for it from the start.
Small Habits Now Save Big Pain Later
Book your appointment today at Sylvan Lake Dental Centre and take the first step toward protecting your restored smile.