How Do You Care for a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns are a valuable investment in your oral health and appearance. If you've received one from Moe Smiles, you're likely wondering how to properly care for it. With the right attention, your dental crown can last many years, helping you chew comfortably and smile confidently.

Let’s explore how you can care for your crown, maintain good oral hygiene, and know when to visit a dental veneers specialist Houston or someone experienced in dental crowns Houston.

What Is a Dental Crown and Why Is It Needed?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. At Moe Smiles, dental crowns are recommended for teeth that are weak, cracked, or heavily filled. They’re also used to cover dental implants or hold dental bridges in place.

Dental crowns come in a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of materials. No matter which one you choose, proper care is essential to make it last.

How Soon Can You Resume Normal Activities After Getting a Crown?

Once your crown is placed, you can usually return to your regular activities the same day. If you've had a temporary crown placed before your permanent one is ready, you may need to avoid certain foods or habits that could dislodge it.

The dental team at Moe Smiles recommends waiting until the anesthesia wears off before eating. This helps prevent accidental biting of your tongue or cheek. Be gentle with the crowned tooth for a few days and monitor for any sensitivity or discomfort.

How Do You Clean a Dental Crown Daily?

Cleaning a crown is very similar to cleaning your natural teeth. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily are essential. However, you must pay extra attention to the gumline where plaque can build up.

Here’s how you can keep your crown clean:

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Choose non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the crown surface.
• Floss around the crown gently but thoroughly.
• Consider using a water flosser for improved cleaning.

When visiting a dental veneers specialist Houston at Moe Smiles, they can recommend the best dental care tools for your unique needs.

What Foods Should You Avoid to Protect Your Dental Crown?

Although crowns are durable, they are not indestructible. Certain habits and foods can damage or loosen them. Here’s what to avoid:

• Hard candies and ice cubes: These can crack the crown.
• Sticky foods like caramel and chewing gum: These can dislodge temporary crowns.
• Very hard or crunchy snacks: These may cause stress on the crown.
• Using your teeth as tools (to open bottles or tear packages): This is a major no-no.

Your dental crowns Houston provider at Moe Smiles will always advise dietary precautions tailored to your specific crown material.

How Often Should You Visit the Dentist After Receiving a Crown?

Regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining a crown. At Moe Smiles, we recommend visiting every six months. During these visits, your crown is checked for:

• Proper fit and alignment
• Signs of wear and tear
• Gum health around the crowned tooth
• Any decay forming underneath the crown

Early detection of issues can help avoid complications and extend the life of your crown. As a trusted dental veneers specialist Houston, Moe Smiles ensures all cosmetic and restorative dental work stays in top condition.

Can You Whiten a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns do not respond to whitening treatments the way natural teeth do. If you plan to whiten your teeth, it’s best to do so before getting a crown. This allows your crown to be matched to your desired tooth shade.

If your existing crown appears darker over time due to external stains, professional cleaning at Moe Smiles can help restore its brightness. But for deep color changes, replacement may be the only option.

What Are Signs That Your Dental Crown Needs Attention?

Even with proper care, dental crowns can sometimes develop issues. Watch for the following signs:

• Pain or sensitivity when biting or chewing
• Gum inflammation around the crown
• Visible chips or cracks
• Looseness or feeling like the crown doesn’t fit

If you experience any of these problems, schedule an appointment with Moe Smiles, a leading provider of dental crowns Houston. Prompt attention can often save the crown and protect your natural tooth underneath.

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

With proper care, dental crowns can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or even longer. The lifespan depends on:

• The material used
• Oral hygiene habits
• Eating habits
• Regular dental visits

At Moe Smiles, we use high-quality materials and advanced techniques to ensure long-lasting crowns that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. Whether you received your crown here or elsewhere, we offer expert care and evaluations.

Is It Safe to Floss Around a Dental Crown?

Yes, and it’s encouraged! Flossing helps prevent plaque buildup around the crown. Gently slide the floss between your teeth and curve it around the base of the crowned tooth. Avoid snapping the floss, especially around temporary crowns.

If you’re unsure about your flossing technique, the team at Moe Smiles, your go-to dental veneers specialist Houston, can demonstrate the proper method during your appointment.

Can Grinding Your Teeth Damage a Crown?

Yes, teeth grinding (bruxism) can wear down crowns just as it does with natural teeth. If you grind your teeth at night, your dentist may recommend a custom nightguard.

At Moe Smiles, we provide protective nightguards that safeguard your investment in dental crowns Houston and other restorations. Wearing a guard can prevent future damage and save on repair or replacement costs.

Final Thoughts: Keep Your Smile Bright with Moe Smiles

Caring for your dental crown doesn't have to be complicated. With daily brushing, flossing, smart food choices, and regular dental visits, you can keep your crown looking and feeling like a natural tooth for many years.

Whether you need a routine check-up, crown repair, or a new restoration, Moe Smiles is your trusted provider for dental crowns Houston. Our expert team, led by a skilled dental veneers specialist Houston, is committed to your oral health and confident smile.

Schedule your appointment today and let us help you maintain your crown with comfort and care that lasts.