A crown over a tooth can restore a smile and protect the tooth but they will not last long if they are not properly cared for. It is important to take care of the crowns as carefully as any other tooth or the individual will experience more dental problems than necessary. There are four ways to make your same day crowns in St. Augustine last longer.
- Eat Soft Foods. Crowns can chip, especially if they are made out of porcelain and can be repaired or replaced by a dentist. It is important that the individual avoid hard foods such as ice or nuts to prevent chips or cracks from occurring. If the crown cracks or chips, it can expose the gum, or nerve if the individual did not get a root canal beforehand, to bacteria or infection, which can require more extensive dental work.
- Avoid Sticky Foods. It is also recommended that the individual who received the crowned tooth avoid sticky foods such as caramels, which can tug the crown out of place. Not only could this cause infection, but it can also cause discomfort or a looseness of the crown. If the crown becomes loose, it is highly recommended that the person contact their dentist to get it fixed as soon as possible.
- Treat it naturally. A crown will need just as much maintenance as a regular tooth in order to last as long as possible. It is vital to floss and brush around the crown to avoid any potential oral health problems. A crown will protect the tooth from decay, but it does not protect the gums. People who receive a prescription high-fluoride gel should use it to prevent cavities from forming should be sure to brush with it twice a day and to floss daily.
- Flossing the Crown. It is very important to brush and floss the crown to avoid bacteria and infection from occurring. When an individual is flossing, it is a good idea not to pull the floss out but instead to slide it out between the teeth. If the floss is pulled out, it can cause the crown to fall out and become infected or require replacing.
Taking care of a crown is a very important part of oral health. By avoiding hard, sticky foods and being sure to keep it clean, the individual can ensure that the crown lasts as long as possible to avoid more dental visits. However, if the crown does crack, chip, come loose, or fall out, he or she need to contact their dentist to get it fixed as soon as possible to avoid more serious oral diseases.
