Dental FAQs: 4 Tips For Keeping A Crowned Tooth Healthy And Clean

A dental crown is like a glove for badly broken or decayed teeth. The crown is usually crafted from porcelain to mimic natural teeth, and is a great option for those who have broken or chipped teeth. Crowns are also ideal for protecting the teeth after a root canal. While the procedure is fairly simple, caring for a crowned tooth might be a little intimidating. Fortunately, it's easy. Here are four tips for caring for your newly crowned tooth:

1. Floss Often and Properly

You should maintain regular oral hygiene with all teeth, including the crowned tooth. This means you need to floss it regularly. However, the flossing technique you use for the crowned tooth might need to change. Ideally, you should use traditional wax floss. Run the floss up through the space between the crowned tooth and regular tooth and pull it straight out. If that sounds difficult, just ask your dentist to show you how to floss it. You could also use a water flosser to make it easier.

Try to avoid handheld flossers. These flossing tools might be very convenient, but they could slip up in between the space and dislodge your crown. So be careful when you floss and try to use only traditional floss or a water flosser.

2. Limit Certain Foods

While there are no real dietary restrictions for those with crowns, you might want to limit certain foods. Very hard and sticky foods could cause your crown to become loose. It could also cause your crown to chip. Additionally, your crown might become stained if you ingest very dark foods or drinks. So try to limit things like popcorn, caramels, coffee, and red wine.

3. Use Fluoride

While a crowned tooth is protected from decay, the gum line isn't. Because of this, you should always make sure that you are using a toothpaste and mouthwash that contains fluoride. If you are particularly prone to cavities, you might also be prescribed a fluoride gel or mouthwash to use. If so, make sure you are using it as directed to keep your gums and teeth around the crown healthy.

4. Avoid Grinding

Finally, make sure that you avoid grinding your teeth—especially if your crowned tooth is a molar. Grinding your teeth is harsh on your teeth, and even more so on your crowned tooth. If you know that you have a problem with grinding your teeth during the night time, ask your dentist for a mouth guard.

While caring for a crowned tooth might seem difficult, it is actually fairly easy. With these tips, and regular dentist visits, you can ensure that your crowned tooth remains healthy and beautiful. For more information, visit a dentist like Carpenter Dental, Charles M. Carpenter DMD, and Chas M. Carpenter DMD.


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