How Do I Care for a Dental Crown to Ensure It Lasts?

A dental crown in Atlanta helps restore a damaged or weakened tooth, allowing you to chew comfortably and maintain your smile. But just like natural teeth, it needs care to last. Proper hygiene, mindful eating, and regular dental visits keep your crown in top shape. Here’s how you can make it last for years.

1. Daily Oral Hygiene for a Dental Crown

Caring for a dental crown isn’t complicated, but consistency is key. Even though crowns are durable, the tooth underneath still needs protection from cavities and gum issues.

Brushing the Right Way

• Use a gentle, soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid wearing down the crown’s surface.
• Pick a non-abrasive toothpaste—ones with baking soda or whitening agents can scratch the material over time.
• Brush for two minutes twice a day, making sure to clean along the gumline.

Flossing: A Step You Can’t Skip

Food particles and plaque can get collected around the edges of a crown. Flossing helps prevent decay beneath the crown and keeps your gums healthy.

• Use waxed floss or a water flosser to avoid snagging around the crown’s edges.
• Slide the floss gently up and down rather than snapping it between teeth.
• Consider interdental brushes if traditional flossing feels difficult.

Mouthwash for Extra Protection

Rinsing with alcohol-free mouthwash kills bacteria without drying out your mouth. A dry mouth can increase plaque buildup, which isn’t great for natural teeth or crowns.

2. Foods to Eat and Avoid

The foods you eat directly affect the longevity of your dental crown. Some can cause damage, while others help maintain a healthy mouth.

Good Choices for Dental Crowns

• Soft fruits and vegetables (bananas, steamed carrots, avocados)
• Dairy products (cheese, yogurt) that strengthen enamel
• Lean proteins (chicken, eggs, tofu) that promote gum health
• Whole grains (brown rice, oats) that support overall oral health

Foods That Can Harm Your Crown

• Hard candies and ice – Biting down too hard can crack the crown.
• Sticky sweets (caramel, taffy) – These can loosen the crown over time.
• Acidic foods (citrus fruits, vinegar-based dressings) – They weaken the tooth structure beneath.
• Sugary drinks (soda, juice) – These encourage plaque buildup around the crown.

Making smart food choices helps maintain your dental crowns in Atlanta and prevents costly repairs down the line.

3. Preventing Damage to Your Crown

A dental crown is strong, but it’s not indestructible. Small habits can either extend or shorten their lifespan.

Avoid These Common Habits

• Chewing on ice or hard objects – Even a tiny crack can lead to bigger problems.
• Using teeth to open packages – This puts unnecessary pressure on your crown.
• Grinding your teeth – If you have bruxism, ask a dentist about a nightguard.

Protect Your Crown at Night and During Sports

If you grind your teeth while sleeping, your crown is at risk. A custom nightguard from a dentist cushions your teeth, reducing damage.

For athletes, a mouthguard is non-negotiable. A direct hit to the mouth can loosen or even knock out a crown. Protect your investment with a well-fitted sports guard.

4. Regular Dental Visits and Maintenance

A well-placed crown should last 10-15 years, but only if maintained properly. Seeing your dentist in Atlanta regularly is the best way to keep it in top shape.

Why Routine Checkups Matter

• Dentists check for signs of decay around the crown.
• Professional cleanings remove hardened plaque you can’t reach at home.
• X-rays ensure the underlying tooth and roots remain healthy.

When to Call Your Dentist

If your crown ever feels “off,” don’t wait for your next appointment. Contact a dentist near you if you notice:

• Sensitivity when eating or drinking.
• Pain around the crowned tooth.
• A loose or shifting crown when chewing.

Ignoring these signs may lead to bigger (and more expensive) problems.

5. Signs Your Crown Needs Attention

Even with the best care, a dental crown might need adjustments or replacement. Knowing the warning signs helps you act before things get worse.

Watch for These Issues

✔ Persistent discomfort – If your crowned toothaches, the underlying tooth may have decay or an issue with the nerve.

✔ Chips or cracks – Small cracks can expand over time, leading to complete failure.

✔ Crown feels loose – A loose crown might mean the adhesive is wearing down. If it falls off, don’t panic—your dentist can reattach it.

✔ Gum inflammation – Swelling or redness around the crown could signal gum disease or an ill-fitting crown.

Resolving these concerns quickly can save you from needing a full replacement.

Final Thoughts

Caring for a dental crown is easy with good daily habits, mindful eating, and regular visits to a dental office in Atlanta. By following these steps, you’ll protect your investment and keep your smile strong. If you ever have concerns about your crown, Dr. Walter Grayson at 3640 Dental can help ensure it stays in top condition.

We help patients maintain strong, healthy smiles. A well-maintained crown keeps your bite comfortable and your smile looking great!