A new dental crown can fix how your tooth works and make your smile look great. To make sure it lasts a long time and keeps your mouth healthy, you need to take good care of it. Even though crowns are strong, they need to be cared for just like your natural teeth. Taking good care of your crown now can help you avoid problems and more dental work later on.
How to Take Care of Your New Dental Crown
The First Few Days
It’s normal to have some sensitivity after getting your new crown. Sensitivity to hot or cold foods is common if your tooth still has a nerve. You might also feel some mild discomfort when you chew for a few days while your mouth gets used to the crown. If your bite feels uneven or the pain continues, be sure to call your dentist for an adjustment.
You should avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods right after your procedure. These kinds of foods can loosen or damage a crown that has just been placed. Allowing your mouth time to heal helps avoid too much pressure and makes sure the crown sets correctly.
Daily Oral Hygiene is Still Essential
Although the crown itself can’t get a cavity, the tooth underneath and the gums around it are still at risk. Brushing and flossing regularly are very important. You should brush your teeth two times a day with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Remember to floss every day too. Be gentle around the crown to keep food and plaque from building up. To avoid loosening the crown, slide the floss out from the side instead of lifting it straight up.
Avoid Habits That Can Damage Your Crown
Certain habits can be harmful to your crown and your natural teeth. These include chewing on ice, biting your nails, or using your teeth to open packages. If you grind or clench your teeth at night, it can also wear down your crown.
If you know you grind your teeth, talk to your dentist about getting a night guard. This mouthguard protects your crown and teeth from damage while you sleep.
Regular Dental Visits Are Necessary
Visiting your dentist twice a year for a checkup and cleaning to help your crown and your whole mouth stay healthy. At these appointments, your dentist will check that your crown is still secure and in good condition.
Your dentist can also spot early signs of problems like gum disease or decay. If you feel any changes in your bite, new sensitivity, or pain near the crown, you should contact Frederick Center for Dentistry immediately. Getting help quickly can stop a small issue from becoming a worse one.
What to Do If Your Crown Comes Loose or Falls Out
A crown coming loose is not a common occurrence, but it can happen. If you notice your crown feels loose, wobbly, or if it falls out entirely, the most important thing is to stay calm. Your first step should be to call your dentist right away to schedule an appointment. Explain what happened so they can see you as soon as possible.
If the crown has fallen out, try to find it and gently rinse it off with water. You can try to slip it back over the tooth very gently to protect it until your appointment. Don’t use any super glue or household adhesives to stick it back on yourself, as this can damage the tooth.
If the tooth is sensitive, you can use a small amount of temporary dental cement that’s available at most drugstores. You can even use a dab of toothpaste inside the crown to hold it in place temporarily until you can see your dentist.
Dental Crown Care in Frederick, MD
At Frederick Center for Dentistry, we’re committed to improving your oral health and keeping your mouth healthy. A new dental crown could help improve your bite and smile, but proper care is important. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment and learn more about how you can protect your dental investment.