How Can You Extend the Lifespan of Your Dental Crown?

Dental crowns are no small investment, and if you’ve undergone treatment to receive one or more, then you know that you want to make them last as long as possible. Each day, your dental crowns are put under a lot of pressure because your teeth work very hard for you. Fortunately, it is fully in your power to extend their lifespan. Keep reading to learn some helpful tips on how to make them last as long as possible.

Tips to Help You Get the Most Out of Your Dental Crown Investment

Although restorative dentistry is an amazing way to transform your smile and give you back your oral functionality, it’s not likely something you will want to go through often. Here are some easy ways you can prevent your dental crowns from wearing down and get the most out of them:

Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools

Every day, billions of people unconsciously use their teeth to bite fingernails, open packages, or remove tags from clothing or other objects. This might seem like no big deal, but the force you put on your teeth when doing that is strong enough to actually dislodge a crown from your tooth. Instead, take the time you need to locate whatever tool is necessary to get the job done without posing a risk to your crowns.

Avoid Eating Hard and Sticky Candy or Chewing on Ice

Another thing that many people do without thinking about it is to begin chewing on the leftover ice after consuming a beverage. This can be detrimental to your crowns, as the cold temperature combined with the hard substance can trigger a crack and break them. As for hard or sticky candy, it can also pose a risk of cracking or dislodging crowns.

Try Not to Clench or Grind Your Teeth

You may have noticed yourself clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth when you are under stress. Some people even do this unconsciously while they are sleeping. If you suspect you might be doing either, a visit to your dentist will allow them to examine your teeth and identify whether there is wear or tear on the enamel from grinding. If that is the case, they might suggest a custom bite guard to protect your teeth and crowns from deterioration.

Practice Good Dental Hygiene

This one is a “no-brainer,” and it’s one of the simplest and most affordable ways to preserve the life of your crowns and keep your overall oral health in good condition. Make sure to brush and floss daily to prevent plaque and bacteria from building up around your teeth and gums and causing decay or infection.

If you want your dental crowns to be with you for the long haul, practice these tips and you’re sure to see them last!

About the Practice

Dr. Laura Philipps has been practicing dentistry for over two full decades, and still, nothing makes her happier than to be able to restore her patients’ smiles. She is passionate about continuing her education which is just one more thing that enables her to provide the highest level of care. If you think you may need a dental crown, you won’t find a better dentist to perform your restorative dental procedure. You can schedule a consultation with us online or call (432) 570-4433.