A standard and efficient procedure for repairing broken, decayed, or fragile teeth is dental crowns. They are specialized caps that fit over the damaged teeth and offer dependable defence against further harm. Dental crowns can help you restore the health and look of your teeth, but many patients are unsure of the limitations of having one placed.
The following blog post will review some rules you might have to abide by after receiving a crown.
Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods
Avoiding hard or sticky foods is one of the essential restrictions after getting a crown. While dental crowns are designed to be strong and durable, they can still be damaged by excessive force or pressure. Hard foods such as nuts, popcorn, and ice can cause the crown to crack or break. Sticky foods such as candy or gum can also damage the crown or cause it to become dislodged.
These items should be avoided for the first few days after receiving a crown. You can progressively reintroduce these foods into your diet after the crown has time to settle and bond with the tooth. However, it’s crucial to exercise caution and refrain from pulling or biting down too hard on sticky or firm foods.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Another critical restriction after getting a crown is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing and flossing regularly to prevent plaque and bacteria buildup around the crown. Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease or decay around the crown, which can compromise the integrity of the restoration.
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing techniques around the crown is important to avoid damaging it. Flossing around the crown can also be challenging, but special floss threaders can help you clean the area effectively.
Avoid Teeth Grinding or Clenching
Teeth grinding or clenching, also known as bruxism, can be damaging to dental crowns. Excessive force and pressure can cause the crown to crack or become dislodged, leading to wear and tear on the natural teeth.
If you suffer from bruxism, talking to your dentist about treatment options is important. This may include wearing a night guard to protect your teeth and dental restorations while you sleep. In some cases, stress management techniques or relaxation therapies may also be recommended to reduce teeth grinding and clenching.
Schedule Regular Dental Check-Ups
Regular dental check-ups are important for maintaining the health and longevity of dental crowns. Your dentist can monitor the crown and surrounding teeth’ condition and identify any issues before they become more serious.
It is recommended to schedule dental check-ups every six months or as your dentist recommends. During these appointments, your dentist can also provide professional cleanings and remove any plaque or tartar buildup around the crown.
Sensitivity
It is normal to experience some sensitivity or discomfort after getting a dental crown. This is usually mild and should subside within a few days. However, if the sensitivity persists or worsens, it is important to talk to your dentist.
Temporary Crown Care
If you received a temporary crown while waiting for the permanent one to be made, you should take care not to dislodge it. Avoid sticky or hard foods, and be gentle when brushing and flossing around the temporary crown.
Dental Work Timing
If you have other dental work planned, such as a filling or root canal, discussing the timing with your dentist is important. They may recommend waiting until after the crown has been placed and has had time to settle.
Emergency Care
If your crown becomes damaged or dislodged, it is essential to seek emergency dental care immediately. Leaving the crown untreated can lead to further damage or decay and compromise the tooth’s health.
In Conclusion
Although dental crowns are a long-lasting and successful treatment choice, some rules must be followed getting a crown. These include avoiding chewy or sticky foods, maintaining good oral health, refraining from clenching, or grinding your teeth, and getting routine dental exams. You can help to ensure the longevity of your dental crown and safeguard your oral health by adhering to these guidelines and taking excellent care of it. Consult your dentist for any concerns about tooth crowns or maintenance.
