How to Care for Your Dental Crown and Protect Your Smile

Dental crowns are one of the most effective solutions for restoring and protecting a damaged tooth or, in some cases, replacing a missing tooth. Whether you've had a root canal, a cracked tooth, or a large filling, a crown helps preserve the strength and function of your natural tooth while improving the look of your smile. Although designed to be durable and resistant, crowns still have to be cared for to avoid damage and compromise over time.

Without proper care — which is often as simple as what you're already doing for your natural teeth — even the most durable crowns can become damaged or dislodged. At Ferrari & Aldieri Dental Associates in Farmingdale, NY, Dr. Angela Ferrari helps patients preserve their crowns for as long as possible with custom guidance as well as high-quality dental crown materials and advanced placement techniques. Review the at-home steps you can take to protect and maintain dental crowns here.

When is a crown needed for a tooth?

A dental crown is often recommended when a tooth is no longer strong enough to function on its own. This can happen for several reasons, including trauma or extensive dental work. While the primary purpose of a crown is restorative, it can also be used to improve your smile cosmetically. Generally speaking, you may be a good candidate for dental crowns if you have:

• A cracked or chipped tooth
• A tooth treated with a root canal
• A tooth with a worn or damaged filling
• A missing tooth being replaced with an implant
• Discolored or misshapen teeth
• Visible wear from grinding or aging

In each case, the crown is designed to cover the tooth and restore its form, function, and appearance.

Do you take care of crowns like natural teeth?

Dental crowns are built to last, but that doesn't mean they're invincible. Treating your crowns like natural teeth is one of the best ways to ensure they stay strong and look great. Some of the most important dental crown care tips to keep in mind include:

• Brush and floss every day
• Rinse with an approved mouthwash
• Avoid hard or sticky foods
• Break habits like nail-biting and chewing on pens
• Limit staining beverages and substances, like coffee, red wine, and tobacco
• Do not use your teeth as tools
• Visit us regularly for dental exams and cleanings

These simple steps can go a long way in preventing damage, staining, or early dental crown wear and tear.

How long do dental crowns last?

With consistent care and routine dental checkups, a crown can last many years. Some patients keep the same crown for ten years or longer. Still, accidents happen and, sometimes, a crown needs to be replaced sooner than expected. If your crown feels loose, gets chipped, or falls out, contact our office right away. Delaying treatment for a lost or broken dental crown could allow bacteria to enter the exposed area and cause further damage.

In many cases, we can repair or replace your crown quickly. For some patients, CEREC® same-day crowns may even be available, depending on the situation and location of the damaged tooth. Whatever the issue, our team is here to help restore a stronger, healthier smile you can feel confident about.

Give your smile a stronger foundation with dental crowns in Farmingdale, NY

Crowns can be an excellent option for restoring your smile, but they still require dedicated care and attention. At Ferrari & Aldieri Dental Associates, we are here to help you maintain your dental work so that it lasts as long as possible. Whether you already have a crown or are considering one, NY dentist Dr. Angela Ferrari in Farmingdale, NY is available to discuss what to expect with dental crowns and how to keep your smile looking its best. For more information about your options for dental crowns or to schedule your consultation with Dr. Ferrari, call our friendly team today.