Dental crowns in Lincoln are capable of solving many dental problems. That’s why they’re one of the most common restorative options out there. Their used in tandem with root canals. They prevent fractured teeth from breaking down worse. They’re so popular, more dentists are opting for milling machines that help them produce them in-office. However, as effective as they are, they are not indestructible.
Since your dental crowns won’t last forever, it’s important that you make the effort to take proper care of them. Keep these tips from your dentist in mind and your dental crowns will last for many years!
What are Dental Crowns Made Of?
Dental crowns have been made of many different materials over the years. In the past, they’ve been made with silver or gold, but these are far less common now that porcelain and ceramic crowns are more available. These offer a more tooth-colored appearance which are more appealing to patients.
Dental crowns are made of inorganic material, which means they cannot become decayed like natural teeth. However, this does not exclude the need for regular maintenance to keep them functioning. Bacteria can still reach the tooth and gum tissue underneath them, so it’s actually more important to brush effectively around these areas to make sure the crown continues to fit properly.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns in Lincoln typically last anywhere from 5 to 15 years. The length varies dramatically based on the wear and tear the crown experiences as well as the amount of oral hygiene a patient practices. It can also be affected by bad habits that damage your teeth, whether it’s unconscious or not.
For example, if you:
- Use your teeth to open packaging or on other inedible objects
- Bite your fingernails
- Chew on ice
- Or grind and/or clench your teeth,
you can easily accelerate the process of deterioration. Even though dental crowns don’t require special care outside of regular oral hygiene, it’s important to address these issues if they’re apparent.
How Do I Take Care of My Dental Crown?
After you’ve gotten rid of bad habits or addressed any issues (such as bruxism), you’ll need to make sure you practice proper oral hygiene to protect the remaining tooth and gum tissue underneath your crown. To do this, brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoridated toothpaste and floss daily. This will remove plaque and food debris from your mouth, prevent tooth decay, and keep the underside of your crown clean.
You’ll want to visit your dentist every 6 months to ensure the crown is fitting properly and protecting your affected tooth underneath. Dentists always check for dental restorations during a dental exam, but if you’re visiting a new dentist, be sure to tell them about any preexisting restorations beforehand.
Dental crowns can last many years if taken care of. For more tips, schedule an appointment with your dentist in Lincoln today!
About the Author
Dr. Danielle Wasielewski provides a wide variety of dental restorations to patients, including bridges, dentures, and of course dental crowns in Lincoln. After earning her DDS from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry, she’s proud and ready to provide the best dental treatments possible to her patients. To learn more about dental crowns and her practice, contact her at (402) 420-2222 or visit her website.