A porcelain dental crown is a significant investment in your oral health, and with the right care, it can last 10-15 years or more. Here is what you need to know to protect it and make it last as long as possible.
Daily Care Is No Different — Almost
Caring for a crown is essentially the same as caring for a natural tooth. Brush twice daily and floss daily. The crown itself cannot decay, but the tooth beneath it can — particularly at the margin where the crown meets the gumline. Keeping this area clean is the most important thing you can do.
Foods and Habits That Can Damage Crowns
Avoid biting directly into very hard foods like ice, hard candy, or crusty bread. Avoid using your crowned teeth to open packages or bite nails. Sticky foods like caramel and gummy candies can also pull at a crown over time.
If You Grind Your Teeth
Bruxism significantly accelerates wear on porcelain crowns. If you grind, ask us about a custom night guard. Wearing a night guard while you sleep is the most effective way to protect your crowns and your remaining natural teeth from excessive wear.
Regular Checkups Are Essential
We evaluate your crown at every checkup appointment — checking the margin for signs of recurrent decay, assessing the fit and integrity, and evaluating the underlying tooth. Catching any issues early allows for simple intervention rather than full replacement. See us at Smileworks Dental every six months.