Best Ways to Care for New Dental Crowns

Getting a new dental crown is an important step in protecting and restoring your teeth. Once you leave the dentist's office with your new crown, proper care at home ensures it lasts as long as possible. Whether your crown is made from ceramic, porcelain, or metal, maintaining good oral hygiene is key. This helps to keep both your crown and your natural teeth healthy.

Caring for a dental crown isn't difficult, but there are some specific things you should do to keep it in great shape. You need to brush and floss regularly, avoid certain foods that can damage the crown, and manage any discomfort or sensitivity you may feel. All these steps help to avoid further dental problems and keep your mouth feeling comfortable.

Regular follow-up visits with your dentist are also essential. These checkups make sure that your crown is still fitting well and that your gums and surrounding teeth stay healthy. Knowing the best ways to care for your new dental crown helps you get the most out of your dental investment, ensuring a bright and healthy smile for years to come.

Daily Oral Hygiene Tips for New Dental Crowns

Taking care of your new dental crown with good oral hygiene is crucial to its longevity. Here are some simple tips to keep your crown and the rest of your mouth healthy:

1. Brush Twice a Day: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to brush your teeth. Make sure to brush around the crown area gently but thoroughly. This helps remove any plaque or food particles that could cause decay.

2. Floss Daily: Flossing is essential for cleaning between your teeth and around your crown. Use a gentle flossing technique to avoid damaging the crown. For easier use, you might find floss picks or water flossers helpful.

3. Rinse with Mouthwash: An antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce plaque and keep your mouth fresh. A daily rinse can also help prevent gum disease, which can affect the area around your crown.

4. Avoid Hard Brushing: Brushing too hard can damage your crown and even your gums. Use a gentle touch and make sure to get all the surfaces of your teeth without applying too much pressure.

5. Check for Wear and Tear: Regularly look at your crown for any signs of damage or wear. If you notice anything unusual, such as cracks or chips, contact your dentist.

By maintaining these daily habits, you can ensure that your new dental crown stays in excellent condition for a long time.

Foods to Avoid After Getting a Dental Crown

Certain foods can cause problems for your new dental crown, so it's important to know what to avoid:

1. Sticky Foods: Candy like caramel and taffy can stick to your crown and pull it loose. Gum can also be problematic, as it can adhere to the crown and cause damage.

2. Hard Foods: Avoid biting down on hard foods such as nuts, hard candies, ice, and even tough bread crusts. These can crack or break your crown.

3. Sugary Foods: Sugar can lead to decay around the crown area. Limit sweets and sugary drinks to keep your teeth healthy.

4. Popcorn: Popcorn kernels can get stuck between your teeth and the crown, which can be painful and hard to remove.

5. Crunchy Vegetables and Fruits: While fruits and veggies are healthy, be mindful of biting into hard ones like apples and carrots. Cut them into small pieces to make them easier to chew.

6. Chewy Meats: Avoid tough, chewy meats like steak or chewy jerky, which can put too much pressure on your crown.

By being careful with what you eat, you can help protect your new crown from unnecessary stress and potential damage. If you have any questions about what foods are safe, don't hesitate to ask your dentist for advice.

How to Handle Discomfort and Sensitivity

It's normal to feel some discomfort and sensitivity after getting a new dental crown. Here are some tips to help you manage these issues:

1. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Common pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce the soreness. Follow the instructions on the package for safe use.

2. Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Very hot or very cold foods and drinks can make sensitivity worse. Stick to room temperature items until the sensitivity subsides.

3. Use Desensitizing Toothpaste: Toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth can help reduce discomfort. Brushing with this type of toothpaste can provide relief over time.

4. Salt Water Rinses: Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help soothe irritated gums around the crown. Mix a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and swish it gently around your mouth for relief.

5. Watch Your Bite: Be mindful of chewing directly on the new crown, especially if it feels high or uneven. Chew on the opposite side to avoid putting too much pressure on the new crown until your bite feels normal.

6. Follow Up with Your Dentist: If discomfort or sensitivity persists for more than a few days, it's a good idea to contact your dentist. There might be an issue with the fit or installation of the crown that needs adjustment.

Following these steps will help you manage any initial discomfort or sensitivity, allowing you to get used to your new dental crown more comfortably.

When to Schedule Follow-Up Visits and Checkups

After getting your dental crown, scheduling regular follow-up visits is essential to ensure everything is in order. Here's what you need to know about follow-up care:

1. Initial Checkup: It's common to have a follow-up appointment a couple of weeks after your crown placement. During this visit, the dentist will check if the crown fits well and make any necessary adjustments.

2. Regular Dental Checkups: Make sure to visit your dentist every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning. These visits help keep your crown and the surrounding teeth in good condition. The dentist will check for any signs of wear, decay, or gum issues.

3. Contact Your Dentist if Issues Arise: If you notice any problems such as pain, sensitivity, or the crown feeling loose, don't wait for your next scheduled checkup. Contact your dentist right away to address the issue and avoid further complications.

4. Annual X-Rays: Regular X-rays can help monitor the health of the tooth under the crown and the surrounding bone structure. Your dentist may recommend X-rays once a year to keep an eye on any potential issues.

By following this schedule and staying in touch with your dentist, you can ensure your dental crown stays in great shape, providing you with a healthy and happy smile.

Conclusion


Taking care of your new dental crown is key to maintaining your oral health and ensuring the crown lasts as long as possible. From daily oral hygiene and knowing which foods to avoid, to managing any discomfort and scheduling regular checkups, every step is important. Paying attention to these details helps to make sure your dental crown stays in top condition, protecting your tooth and giving you the confidence to smile.

New dental crowns can make a big difference in your dental health, but they do require some special care. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of your new crown for many years. Always remember that your dentist is there to help if you have any concerns or questions.

For expert advice and personalized care, schedule your appointment with The Dental Boutique Riverview. Our experienced team is ready to help you keep your smile bright and healthy. Call our dentists in Riverview, FL, today to book your visit and take the first step toward excellent dental care!