Caring for Dental Crowns
If
your tooth is decayed or damaged, your dentist may recommend a crown to
protect it and make it look like your other teeth. Once your crown is
put on, you may wonder - what happens next? You may have a lot of
questions about caring for your new crown. Crown care is not too
different or complicated compared to caring for natural teeth, but there
are some things you should know in order to help your crown last as
long as possible. Indianapolis dentist Dr. Lina Al-Bitar can help you
care for your crown so that it lasts a decade or longer.
How Should I Care for My Crown?
No
special care is needed. You should continue to brush and floss daily,
since the tooth underneath the crown is still susceptible to decay. It's
also a good idea to use an antibacterial mouthwash on a daily basis to
rinse bacteria out of your teeth. Crowns do not last forever; on
average, expect your crown to last 5-15 years. To prolong its life,
avoid habits such as grinding your teeth, biting fingernails, opening
packages with your teeth and chewing on ice and other hard items.
What Problems Should I be Aware Of?
The
most common issue with crowns is sensitivity. This is normal, but if it
persists for longer than a few days, let your dentist know. Sometimes
the crown can be become chipped, loose or fall off altogether. If this
happens, your dentist can repair or replace it.
Learn More About Crowns
Dr.
Lina Al-Bitar has helped many of her Indianapolis patients care for
their crowns. If you are considering crowns for your teeth, contact her
office for a consultation by calling (317) 897-5787.
