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Caring for a New Dental Crown

Posted on 11/30/2018 by Office of Dr. James A. Krippaehne

A dental crown is a prosthetic cover designed for placement over a decayed or badly damaged tooth. They are placed for many reasons, but for the most part, they work to restore a tooth that has been broken or damaged by decay. While dental crowns are strong and long-lasting, you'll still need to take a few steps to care for them.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

A dental crown works to strengthen the portion of the tooth that is visible above the gum line. You'll need to ensure that the gums around the crown stay healthy by maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine. This involves regular brushing and flossing. While the crown itself won't decay, the areas along the gum line where the natural tooth remains visible is still susceptible to damage.

Avoiding Chewing on Non-Food Items

Ceramic crowns are durable and long-lasting, and they are able to withstand natural biting forces. However, they are still at risk of fracturing just like a natural tooth. You can preserve your new dental crown by keeping non-food items out of your mouth. Don't put pens and pencils in your mouth, and try not to chew on ice.

Maintain Your Regular Dental Appointments

Just because you have a crown doesn't mean that you no longer need to visit the dentist. We'll want to see you for regular chew-ups to inspect the health of your mouth and to see how your crown is doing. We'll assess the crown itself and the underlying tooth structure to see if there are any signs of damage. If a problem is noticed, we can take care of it right away before a bigger issue arises.

Whether it is time for your next dental appointment or you are concerned about your new dental crown, give our office a call. We are always here to help.

WE TREAT OUR PATIENTS WITH RESPECT

We believe in educating patients about their treatment options and listening to their questions and concerns.

WE BELIEVE IN HEALTHY TEETH FIRST

We focus on prevention so that you keep your smile healthy. We provide excellent comfortable care for all procedures.

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