Caring for Your New Dental Crown

When you opt for a dental crown in St. Cloud, MN, you get a tooth that is restored, which means you regain your self-confidence and your full smile function. The biggest question most patients have after getting a new crown is how they should take care of it for the long term. Here is a closer look at what you need to know about caring for your new dental crown.

Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods

Crowns are durable dental implements, but some hard and sticky foods can still put your crown at risk just as certain foods can cause damage to your natural teeth. Once you have a crown, be especially attentive to things like taffy, ice, and hard candy. These types of foods can put undue stress on the bond between the crown and the underlying tooth, which may cause the crown to dislodge.

Maintain a Good Home Oral Hygiene Routine

Even though your new crown is not going to be prone to decay, the tooth beneath it is still natural and will need all the same care and attention to keep it healthy. Be sure to remain vigilant about oral hygiene at home, including flossing around the crown just as you do the rest of your teeth.

Kick Bad Habits

Certain habits can be really hard on a crown, especially if you opt for a porcelain crown. Once you have a dental crown, be sure to avoid things like:

• Opening bottle caps with your teeth
• Chewing on your fingernails
• Chewing on hard objects

Grinding your teeth is something else to watch out for. Even though this habit is often involuntary, this, too, can cause damage to your new crown. If you suspect that you are grinding your teeth at night, be sure to talk to a dentist about a nightguard you can wear while you are sleeping.

Talk to a St. Cloud Dentist About Dental Crowns

When properly taken care of, a dental crown can give you a more attractive smile for many years. If you would like to speak to a St. Cloud, MN dentist about a dental crown, reach out to us at Friesz Family and Cosmetic Dentistry to schedule an appointment.