A same day crowns in Richmond, IN is usually a porcelain cap placed over a broken tooth to restore its functionality and appearance. That said, a crown is designed to be a long-lasting solution and it can serve you well for many years. Following these post-procedure tips is especially important for Richmond, IN patients to do everything you can comfortably care for their new crown and help protect the health of their smile.
Floss Daily
Flossing is an integral part of plaque removal and helps eliminate food particles that often become wedged between teeth or trapped along the gums. Once you have a crown, keep flossing every day, making sure to watch what happens around the crowned tooth. To dislodge the stuck floss, slide it up and down gently. You may want to try floss picks or water flossers if you find traditional dental floss difficult to use in your mouth, as these options are usually gentler and more flexible around cavities.
Use Antibacterial Mouthwash
Using an antimicrobial mouthwash after brushing will help lower your crown’s risk of infection and plaque accumulation. To prevent irritation, use an alcohol-free mouthwash and follow the directions, generally once or twice a day. By taking this extra step, you may help keep your gums and neighboring teeth healthy and your crown in top shape.
Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods
Certain foods can put your new crown at risk. Avoid hard foods that can crack or dislodge the crown, as well as sticky food such as caramel and chewing gum that could pull new crowns off and get cavities around their edges. Stick with softer food, particularly right after the procedure for it to have time to harden correctly on top of your tooth. As your mouth heals, start to slowly introduce a more varied diet but always be careful with those that can cause harm.
Teeth grinding or clenching
If you grind and clench your teeth (bruxism) it can put excess pressure on the crown which may cause localized damage or weaken the retention of the adhesive. If you clench, especially at night, get an occlusal splint from your dentist. This guard will also offer your other teeth such as the crowns maximum protection thus helping to prevent damage to them, it preserves dental work and has been proven effective in reducing any associated problems with jaw pain or headaches.
It is important to schedule regular visits with a dental professional to check the status of your crown as well as maintain optimal oral health overall. Visit at least twice a year to your dentist for professional cleanings and examinations. In between these visits, your dentist will monitor the crown to ensure it is still well-fitted and that no problems are developing. Consistent check-ups are also another way to get individual advice on how to look after your shiny new crown and keep those pearly whites squeaky clean.
To keep your dental restoration, you must follow good oral hygiene habits and make thoughtful decisions while caring for your new crown in Richmond, IN. You can make sure that your crown lasts for many years by brushing and flossing regularly, using antibacterial mouthwash, avoiding dangerous foods, treating teeth grinding, going to regular dental checkups, taking care of oral health issues right away, and refraining from using your teeth as tools. You can get the most out of your dental investment and keep a gorgeous, healthy smile with these easy-to-follow yet powerful techniques.
