Maximizing the Longevity of Your Dental Crowns with Regular Cleanings
Summary: In this post, we will unveil the secret behind maximizing the longevity of your dental crowns. Discover how regular cleanings can be an absolute game-changer in preserving both the beauty and functionality of your crowns, ensuring a brighter smile that lasts for years to come.
Dental crowns are essential to restoring your smile after tooth loss or damage. A dental crown is a customized, tooth-shaped hat over an injured or decayed tooth. Crowns also conceal misshapen teeth and protect weak ones from breaking. Dental crowns in Woodbridge VA are made from various materials, including ceramic, porcelain, and metals such as gold and silver. Porcelain crowns are the most popular, offering a natural look and feel. However, they can be more expensive than other types of crowns.
How to Care for Your Crowns
Assuming you take good care of your teeth in the first place and visit your dentist for Emergency dental Woodbridge VA cleanings and checkups, there are a few things you can do at home to maximize the longevity of your Dental crowns:
- Avoid hard foods: Even with a durable crown, it’s best to avoid hard foods that could damage or dislodge the restoration. Cut up tough meats, bones, and raw vegetables into smaller pieces so you don’t put too much pressure on your teeth.
- Be mindful when chewing gum: Stick to sugarless gum and be careful not to chew too vigorously, which can also cause damage.
- Brush twice daily: Brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste—but be gentle around the crowns. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and circular motions rather than back-and-forth scrubbing.
- Floss regularly: Daily flossing is vital for preventing the buildup of plaque and bacteria around the crown and along the gum line—both of which can lead to decay or infection. If you have trouble flossing around the crown, use floss threaders or dental picks designed explicitly for this purpose.
- Rinse with mouthwash: In addition to brushing and flossing, swish your mouth with an antibacterial or therapeutic mouthwash for extra protection.
- See your dentist: Remember to see your dentist regularly—with crowns, this may mean more frequent visits than you’re used to. This way, your dentist can monitor the fit and condition of the restoration and make any repairs or adjustments before any significant problems arise.
The Benefits of Regular Cleanings
Your dental crown is essential to your smile, and you want to do everything possible to keep it looking its best. One of the best ways to maximize the longevity of your dental crown is to have regular cleanings. Here are some of the benefits of regular Dental cleaning Woodbridge:
- Remove Plaque and Tartar: Over time, plaque and tartar can produce up on your teeth, including around your dental crown. It can lead to decay and other problems. Regular cleanings will help remove plaque and tartar, which will help keep your teeth healthy.
- Prevent Gum Infection: Gum infection is a painful problem that can lead to tooth loss. Regular Dental cleaning Woodbridge can help clear the bacteria that induce gum disease, which will help keep your gums healthy.
- Keep Your Smile Bright: Regular cleanings will help remove stains from your teeth, including around your dental crown. It will help keep your smile looking its best.
How to Find Reliable Care Providers
Nothing lasts forever, but dental crowns can last very long with appropriate care. It’s essential to find reliable care providers that will help you keep your crowns in tip-top shape. Here are a few tips on how to find the right professional for the job:
- Get referrals from people you trust. If you know someone who has had good experiences with their dental crowns, ask for a referral.
- Do your research online. Read reviews of local care providers and see what their past patients have to say about their experience.
- Make sure they are qualified. Review to see if the provider is certified and insured. Also, inquire about their experience, specifically with dental crowns.
- Schedule a consultation. It will allow you to meet the care provider and get a feel for their bedside manner before committing to them long-term.
- Ask questions. Discuss fees, payment plans, and any insurance coverage you may have.
Common Problems with Dental Crowns and How to Avoid Them
Dental crowns are an extremely popular dental restoration because they are durable and can last many years with proper care. However, some common problems can occur with dental crowns, which can cause them to fail prematurely. The good news is that these problems are usually avoidable with proper care.
One of the most common problems with dental crowns is decay around the margin of the crown. It can happen if the tooth beneath the crown needs to be cleaned correctly or if bacteria and food debris can accumulate around it. To avoid this problem, brushing and flossing around your dental crown daily is essential.
Another common problem with Dental crowns in Woodbridge VA is loosening or coming off entirely. It can happen if the cement holding the crown in place breaks down, or the tooth underneath the crown begins to decay. To avoid this problem, it is essential to see your dentist regularly so that they can check the fit of your crown and make sure that it is still securely in place. Additionally, you should avoid chewing on rigid meals or utilizing your teeth as tools, as this can put undue stress on your dental crown and cause it to come loose.
