Dental crowns serve a number of purposes, such as to restore a weak or damaged tooth, hold a bridge in place, perform cosmetic repairs, or cover a dental implant. If your dentist recommends a dental crown, you'll want to know how to care for it once the crown is in place. Here are just some of the things to consider as you prepare to care for your new crown.
Avoid Hard And Sticky Foods
In the days and weeks immediately following your procedure, it may be a good idea to avoid hard and chewy foods to prevent damage to the crown. This is also a good idea if your dentist puts a temporary crown in place before placing the permanent version on your tooth. You may find that chewing is uncomfortable right after having a crown put in, so consider asking your dentist which foods you should avoid and which ones are best to eat right after the procedure.
Floss Daily
Because a crown fits over your tooth, it is possible for plaque and debris to build up in the area between the tooth and gum. Flossing daily after you brush can help to prevent this problem. Talk to your dentist about the proper flossing procedure around the crown area so you can be sure you are getting the area sufficiently clean. You may also want to use an antibacterial mouthwash after flossing as an additional precaution.
Consider Switching Toothpaste
You may find that your tooth is sensitive to heat and cold, so consider switching to a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. Your dentist can recommend the best toothpaste for you to use. If the sensitivity continues or does not improve, schedule an appointment with your dentist to determine whether or not there is a more serious reason why your tooth is sensitive.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Crowns do need to be replaced eventually, particularly if they become chipped or damaged, so your dentist will inspect any crowns you may have to determine their status and help you to determine when you should have them replaced. Keep up your regularly scheduled cleanings, and ask whether or not you should come in more frequently for checkups to keep an eye on the crowns and any other dental work you may have had done.
Dental crowns can help you to improve your smile and give you a bit of added confidence. Talk to your dentist about whether or not they are right for you, and be prepared to care for them properly to keep your smile looking great for years to come. Contact a company like Pittsburgh Dental Spa to learn more.
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