Porcelain crowns are a commonly used dental restoration for damaged teeth. With a natural look and comfortable feel, porcelain crowns will make you feel like you have a brand-new tooth. However, to ensure that your porcelain crown lasts for as long as possible, it’s important to care for it properly.
Caring For Porcelain Crowns
The Do’s
Brush and Floss
One of the most important aspects of caring for a porcelain crown is the same as caring for your natural teeth: Brush and floss every day. While the crown itself isn’t a natural tooth, the tooth beneath it requires cleaning to prevent decay. Plus, plaque can form on porcelain crowns. Brushing and flossing the crown diligently will remove the food particles that can lead to plaque formation, as well as irritation to the gums.
Invest in a Night Guard
Grinding or clenching your teeth at night can significantly increase the risk of damage to your porcelain crown. Whenever you grind or clench, it exerts a significant amount of pressure on the teeth. Over time, this pressure could cause the crown to break. You can get a custom night guard from your dentist to protect your crown and natural teeth against damage from bruxing.
Visit Your Dentist Twice a Year
Seeing your dentist for your twice-annual exam and cleaning is a crucial part of caring for your crown. Your dentist will check in on your crown to ensure that it’s in good condition, that the underlying tooth is healthy, and that it’s fitted well.
The Don’ts
Chew On Hard Foods and Materials
Chewing on hard foods and items, such as ice, hard candy, and fingernails, will put your porcelain crown at a higher risk for damage. Using your teeth to open bottles or packages can also damage the crown. Make sure to steer clear of these foods and materials to keep your crown in good condition for many years to come.
Dental Implant Solutionz provides custom, restorative porcelain crowns in Largo, Florida. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.