Maintaining Your Dental Crowns

Dental crowns offered by your Lincoln Park, IL, dentist, Dr. Allen Momongan of The Dental Practice of Lincoln Park protect your teeth and improve your smile. You can keep your crowns in good condition by following these recommendations.

Brush and floss thoroughly

Plaque and tartar won't affect your crown but can damage the tooth underneath the crown. If a tooth becomes decayed, it may no longer be able to support your crown. Fortunately, it's easy to keep your teeth in good condition by brushing and flossing every day.

Brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day using a fluoridated toothpaste. Flossing is just as important as brushing. If you don't floss, plaque will remain between your teeth, where it may soon cause cavities.

Stay away from the hard stuff

Crowns, whether they're made of porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal, ceramic, or resin, aren't indestructible. Although the restorations are designed to handle normal chewing and biting, they can break or crack if you regularly chew very hard foods, like hard pretzels, nuts, or even ice cubes. Sticky foods can also cause problems and may loosen your crown or increase your risk of cavities if the food sticks to the base of the crown.

Don't use your teeth as tools

When a package is hard to open, your first thought may be to try to open it with your teeth. This practice can also damage or crack your crowns or your teeth and gums. It's much safer to use the appropriate tools for the job.

Use a nightguard if you grind your teeth

Grinding or clenching your teeth when you sleep can damage both crowns and teeth. Since you don't have any control over the habit, it's a good idea to wear a nightguard if you have one or more crowns. The guard is worn over your teeth and custom-made for you by your dentist.

See your dentist for checkups

During regular checkups to the Lincoln Park dental office, your dentist will check the condition of your teeth, gums, and crowns. These visits will help you protect your oral health and ensure that your crowns are in good condition.

Regular dental visits are a must if you have dental crowns. To schedule your checkup with Dr. Allen Momongan, your dentist at The Dental Practice of Lincoln Park in Lincoln Park, IL, call (773) 935-9818.