A new dental crown can restore your tooth’s strength, function, and appearance, but the right care is key to making it last. Whether this is your first crown or you’ve had one before, good maintenance can help it stay strong for years. With the right care, dental crowns can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or even longer, so let’s go over how to keep yours in great shape.
Best Practices for Preserving Your Dental Crown
Keep Up with Great Oral Hygiene
Taking care of your new dental crown starts with great oral hygiene. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to prevent plaque buildup. While the crown itself won’t decay, the natural tooth underneath still can. It usually starts where the crown meets your gumline. Skipping proper care in this area can cause cavities or gum disease, which might weaken the crown even more.
Be gentle when flossing around your crown. Don’t snap the floss because it could loosen the crown. Carefully slide it between your teeth instead. This is especially important in the first few days after getting your crown.
Avoid Habits That Could Damage Your Crown
Some everyday habits can be tough on your crown. Chewing on ice, pens, or fingernails might seem harmless, but they can cause cracks or chips. If you grind or clench your teeth at night, ask your dentist about a custom night guard. A night guard protects both your crown and your other teeth while you sleep.
Watch out for sticky or super-hard foods. They can pull on or damage your crown. If you can’t resist, chew on the opposite side of your mouth or cut treats into smaller and safer pieces.
Dealing with Post-Crown Sensitivity
It’s normal to have some sensitivity after getting a crown, especially with hot or cold foods and drinks. This usually fades within a few days or weeks, but check in with your dentist if it sticks around. It could mean the crown isn’t fitting quite right, there’s lingering irritation, or you need further treatment.
To ease discomfort, try using sensitivity toothpaste and temporarily avoiding extreme temperatures. Giving your mouth a little time to adjust can help a lot.
Don’t Skip Your Dental Checkups
No matter how well you care for your crown at home, regular dental visits are a must. Your dentist will check the crown’s fit, look for signs of decay or gum problems, and give it a professional cleaning to prevent plaque buildup. These routine visits help your crown last longer and keep your whole mouth healthier.
What to Do If Your Crown Feels Loose or Comes Off
Even with proper care, crowns can sometimes become loose or fall out. If this happens, don’t panic! First, save the crown and call your dentist right away. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth. If the crown is intact, you can try slipping it back into place temporarily with dental cement.
Never use superglue or household adhesives. They can damage the tooth and crown. Your dentist can properly reattach or replace it to ensure a secure fit.
Choosing the Right Products for Your Crown
Not all oral care products are ideal for crowned teeth. When shopping for toothpaste, avoid abrasive formulas that could scratch the crown’s surface over time. A soft-bristled toothbrush is gentler on both your crown and gums.
If you use mouthwash, opt for an alcohol-free version to reduce sensitivity around the crowned tooth. Your dentist can recommend specific products tailored to your needs.
How Long Should Your Crown Last?
With good care, dental crowns typically last 10–15 years, but their lifespan depends on your habits and oral hygiene. Normal wear and tear or changes in your gumline might mean your crown needs an update. Warning signs include:
- Visible chips or cracks
- A change in fit (feeling loose or uneven)
- Persistent pain or sensitivity
- Darkening at the gumline (indicating decay underneath)
If you notice any of these, schedule a dental visit. Sometimes, a simple adjustment or repair can extend your crown’s life. Your dentist can advise whether a replacement is the best option.
Dental Crown care in Gaithersburg, MD
At Totally Smiles, we are dedicated to preserving your oral health. If you have damage or decay, a dental crown could help restore your bite. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your restorative dentistry treatment options.