If you have gone through the process of receiving dental crowns, then you know you want them to last as long as possible. Your teeth work really hard for you, and your crowns are put under a lot of pressure daily. The great news is, there are steps you can take to lengthen the time that they will last. Keep reading to learn some helpful tips that your Charlottesville dentist shares about how to keep your dental crowns in great condition.
Tips to Help You Extend the Lifespan of Your Dental Crown
Having a dental crown placed is no small investment, so if you have one or more, you want them to last. If properly cared for, they can last over a decade. Here are a few tips you can take to the bank that will keep your crowns in great condition:
Avoid Using Your Teeth as Tools
Whether it’s biting a fingernail or opening a package, you’ve probably used your teeth as tools at some point in your life. It’s important to try to avoid this if you have crowns, as the force it takes to pull or rip things open can cause the crown to dislodge from the top of your tooth.
Don’t Eat Hard Candy or Chew on Ice
Some of the biggest offenders of dental crowns are hard candies and ice. Biting down on these hard substances can cause your crowns to crack or break. If you’re like most people, you probably chew on ice in your drinks without even thinking about it. Try to order your beverages without ice to avoid an accident.
Practice Good Dental Hygiene
One of the easiest ways to take care of your crowns is to make sure you’re flossing and brushing your teeth every day. Plaque build-up around dental crowns can cause further decay to the affected teeth, causing the crowns to need to be replaced sooner.
Try Not to Clench or Grind Your Teeth
Many people do this without even realizing it, and with a quick examination of your teeth and the inside of your mouth, your dentist can let you know if you are doing it. This can be very harmful to dental crowns because the pressure caused by your upper or lower teeth can crack or dislodge them.
If you want to make the most of your investment in your dental crowns, practice these helpful tips and you can count on them being with you for the long haul.
About the Practice
Dr. Hal M. Lippard is an expert when it comes to restorative dentistry. For decades, he has been giving smiles a second chance with dental crowns. He values education and he has made it a priority to continue learning and growing his skills through advanced training. Do you have more questions about dental crowns? Schedule a consultation with us online or call (434) 293-9311.