How to Care for Your New Crown – Tips from Elegantly Dental

A dental crown can change your smile, fixing both how your teeth work and how they look. If you just got a crown or you’re thinking about getting one, it’s smart to know how to take care of it. Crowns can last a long time, but only if you treat them right. At Elegantly Dental, we get how crucial proper crown care is for keeping your whole mouth healthy. So, here’s what you need to know to keep your crown looking and working its best.

What’s a Dental Crown?

Before we get into the basics of care, let’s clear up what a crown is. It’s a cap that covers your tooth to bring back its shape, size, and strength. It can also make your tooth look better. Crowns come in a few different materials—porcelain, metal, or mixes of both. They’re sturdy and look good, making them a popular option for damaged teeth.

1. Keep Up With Oral Hygiene

Crowns are made to last, but that doesn’t mean you can skip brushing and flossing. Stick to brushing at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Floss every day, but be gentle around the gum line near your crown. Mouthwash helps too—anything that keeps plaque and bacteria away is a win. The cleaner you keep your crown, the longer it’ll stay in great shape.

2. Don’t Go After Hard or Sticky Foods

Dental crowns are strong, but they’re not unbreakable. Biting down on ice, pen caps, or those super-hard candies? That’s asking for trouble. Sticky edible items like caramel or taffy can loosen the crown. If you can’t resist something crunchy, cut it into small pieces and chew on the other side of your mouth.

3. Watch Out for Teeth Grinding

If you grind your teeth at night, your crown undergoes stress. Grinding can crack it or loosen it. If this sounds like you, get a nightguard. It cushions your teeth and reduces pressure on your crown.

4. See Your Dentist Regularly

Don’t skip your checkups. Your dentist keeps an eye on your crown to make sure it’s still secure and doing its job. Regular cleanings help stop plaque from building up around it, too. These visits catch problems early, before they turn into extensive issues down the road.

5. Deal With Problems Right Away

If your crown starts to hurt, gets loose, or you spot any chips, call your dentist right away. Don’t wait. Fixing minor problems early can save your crown and sometimes your tooth underneath.

6. Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools

Opening packages or bottles with your teeth? Bad idea. That’s an easy way to crack or even pop off your crown. Grab the right tool instead and save yourself the dental drama.

7. Know Your Crown Material

Porcelain crowns look great – almost like real teeth, but they can chip more easily than metal ones. If you have porcelain, be extra careful with hard foods. Metal crowns are tough as nails, but don’t blend in as well. No matter what your crown’s made of, give it the care it deserves.

Keep Your Smile Going Strong

Taking care of your crown is just part of taking care of your whole mouth. Brush, floss, skip the hard or sticky foods, and see your dentist. Do that, and your crown sticks around for years. Got questions or need a checkup? Reach out to Elegantly Dental. We’re here to help you keep your smile healthy and bright.

FAQs