How to Care for Your Dental Crowns: Dos and Don’ts

Understanding Dental Crowns

• Gentle Cleaning: Brush your dental crowns gently using a soft-bristle toothbrush. Opt for a non-abrasive toothpaste to prevent scratching.


• Floss Regularly: Flossing is crucial to remove plaque between teeth and crowns. Use a floss threader for effective cleaning.


• Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule routine dental check-ups to ensure your crowns are in optimal condition. Your dentist can detect and address any issues early.


• Mouthguard Usage: If you grind your teeth at night, use a custom-fitted mouthguard. It protects both natural teeth and dental crowns from wear.


• Maintain Oral Hygiene: A healthy oral routine, including regular brushing and flossing, is essential to prevent complications around these crowns.

• Avoid Hard Foods: Refrain from biting into hard foods like ice, nuts, or candies. This can prevent the chipping or cracking of your dental crowns.


• Limit Staining Substances: Minimize consumption of staining substances like coffee, tea, and red wine to maintain the color of your dental crowns.


• Say No to Chewing Ice: Chewing ice can lead to fractures or damage to dental crowns. Avoid this habit to ensure their longevity.


• Don't Use Teeth as Tools: Avoid using your teeth as tools for opening packages or bottles. This can exert excessive pressure on the crowns.


• Avoid Tobacco: Tobacco products can stain dental crowns and contribute to gum issues. Even quitting smoking is beneficial for both your oral and overall health.

Regular Maintenance Routine

• Professional Cleaning: Schedule regular professional cleanings with your dentist. This ensures that plaque and tartar are removed from areas that are hard to reach.


• X-rays as Needed: Follow your dentist's recommendations for X-rays. These images help identify any issues beneath the surface that may impact your crowns.


• Use a Water Flosser: Water flossers are effective in cleaning around dental crowns. They help remove debris and bacteria from hard-to-reach areas.


• Fluoride Treatments: Consider fluoride treatments as advised by your dentist. Fluoride helps strengthen teeth, including those with these crowns.


• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water promotes overall oral health. It helps flush away bacteria and maintains a moist environment for your gums and crowns.

• Skip Dental Appointments: Regular dental check-ups are essential for monitoring the health of your dental crowns. Skipping appointments may lead to unnoticed issues.


• Ignore Discomfort: If you experience pain, sensitivity, or discomfort around it, don't ignore it. Promptly consult your dentist for evaluation and necessary adjustments.


• Use Harsh Mouthwash: Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes, as they can contribute to crown discoloration. Opt for a gentle, non-alcoholic alternative.


• Overlook Gum Health: Healthy gums are vital for the stability of dental crowns. Pay attention to your gum health and address any signs of inflammation promptly.


• Self-Adjustment: Never attempt to adjust or fix these crowns on your own. Leave it to your dentist to make any necessary adjustments.

Common Concerns Addressed

• Regular Self-Examination: Periodically examine your dental crowns for any signs of damage, discoloration, or irregularities.


• Communication with Your Dentist: Maintain open communication with your dentist. Discuss any concerns or changes you notice during your dental check-ups.

• Postpone Repairs:  If a component necessitates repair or replacement, don't postpone the task. Also, timely intervention, in this case, can prevent further complications.