How to Make a Dental Crown Last Longer?

Dental crowns are a durable and effective solution for restoring damaged teeth, but like any dental work, they require proper care to maintain their function and appearance over time. At Buffalo Square Dental in Everett, WA, Dr. Aman Manji and his team are committed to helping you protect your investment in your oral health. 

With a conservative, patient-centered approach, we not only restore teeth but also equip you with the right habits to keep them healthy for years to come. If you're wondering how to make a dental crown last longer, here are some friendly and professional tips to get you started.

Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene Daily

Brushing and flossing may seem basic, but they're your crown's first line of defense against decay and gum disease. While a dental crown itself can’t decay, the tooth beneath it can still develop a cavity. Maintaining that tooth is crucial if you want the crown to stay strong and secure. Here’s how to keep your crowned tooth in top shape:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily, gently sliding the floss around the base of the crown to remove plaque between the gaps between your gums and teeth.
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash to help reduce bacteria that brushing may miss.

Be Mindful of What You Eat

The foods you choose can significantly impact the longevity of your dental crown. Hard, sticky, or excessively chewy foods can potentially dislodge or damage crowns, especially in the first few weeks after placement.Even with high-quality materials and modern techniques, crowns are not indestructible. For better crown health, try to:

• Limit sticky foods like caramel and taffy that could pull on the crown.
• Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, nuts, pens, or fingernails.
• Cut tough foods into smaller pieces to reduce bite force on the crown.

Protect Your Smile from Stress and Damage

Crowns can endure everyday chewing, but protecting them from extra wear and tear adds valuable years to their lifespan. Many people grind or clench their teeth, especially at night, which places excessive pressure on crowns and natural teeth alike. Thankfully, prevention is simple and effective. Dr. Manji often recommends:

• Wearing a custom night guard if you grind your teeth during sleep.
• Using a mouthguard during contact sports or other physical activities that could lead to facial injury.
• Addressing underlying issues like TMJ that may contribute to nighttime clenching.

Schedule Regular Dental Visits

Routine checkups are essential not just for your general oral health, but for the longevity of your dental work as well. At Buffalo Square Dental, we recommend biannual exams and professional cleanings to monitor your crown, catch potential problems early, and ensure your surrounding teeth and gums remain healthy. During your visit, Dr. Manji will:

• Examine the crown for wear, chips, or looseness.
• Take digital X-rays when necessary to check the tooth beneath the crown.
• Give you personalized advice to care for your teeth based on your lifestyle and habits.

Book Your Next Dental Crown Checkup in Everett

Taking small steps each day can drastically extend the life of your dental crown. Whether you're new to crowns or you've had yours for years, Dr. Aman Manji and the warm, welcoming team at Buffalo Square Dental are here to support your smile every step of the way. If you're in Everett and need a trusted dentist to maintain or evaluate your crown, call us today at (425) 385-3839 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to seeing you soon!