Maintenance Tips to Avoid Dental Crowns Needing Replacement

Dental crowns are some of the most durable, long-lasting, and beautiful dental restorations available today. With high-quality dental crowns, patients can enjoy decades' worth of a stunning, functional smile that gives them both comfort and confidence. However, while they are designed to be extremely durable, dental crowns can become damaged, stained, and otherwise compromised without proper care.

At Ferrari & Aldieri Dental Associates, Dr. Angela Ferrari and our friendly Farmingdale, NY dental crown specialists help patients protect their investment and keep their smile looking its best for longer by educating them on proper dental crown care and maintenance. Take a closer look here at how to help avoid needing replacement dental crowns, including following a consistent dental routine with regular cleanings, dental exams, at-home care, and more.

Do you have to replace dental crowns?

Dental crowns, which fit over damaged teeth for protection and/or to create a more complete, beautiful smile, can last for years, decades, or even longer —but it is important to keep in mind that this doesn't necessarily mean they'll last a lifetime. In some cases, particularly when patients get crowns in their younger years, replacement crowns may be needed at some point in the future due to normal wear and tear or specific types of damage. Some of the most common reasons to get new dental crowns include:

• Stained crowns
• Discolored crowns
• Broken crown
• Cracked dental crown
• Crown fell off
• Crowns are worn down due to clenching and grinding
• Chipped crown

Some types of damage to a dental crown may be suitable for crown repair vs. replacement, which Dr. Ferrari can discuss with you following an evaluation.

How can I avoid having to replace a crown?

One of the best ways to keep your original crowns for as long as possible is to care for them properly using our recommendations and general healthy lifestyle habits. Some of the most important care instructions for dental crowns include:

• Brushing and flossing
• Rinsing with mouthwash as directed
• Using a soft-bristled toothbrush (if recommended)
• Not smoking or using tobacco products
• Rinsing after eating or drinking items that stain (tomato sauce, red wine, coffee, tea)
• Avoiding hard, sticky, crunchy, and gummy snacks
• Refraining from using your teeth as tools (to open packages, etc.)
• Using a knife and fork when possible (vs. tearing food with your teeth)
• Wearing a night guard while sleeping
• Wearing an athletic mouth guard during contact or high-risk sports
• Keeping up with your regularly scheduled dental exams and teeth cleanings

Additionally, choosing a dentist who is skilled in restorations and uses the highest-quality dental crown products is one of the most effective steps you can take in setting yourself up for a beautiful, durable smile you can enjoy for as long as possible.

Upgrade your smile with quality, long-lasting dental crowns in Farmingdale, NY

At Ferrari & Aldieri Dental Associates, we understand and share in your desire to protect your newly enhanced smile for as long as possible, and we are committed to helping you do that through quality materials, in-office care, at-home guidance, and more. Take the first step toward getting a smile you can feel confident about by contacting us today to schedule an exam and consultation with Farmingdale, NY, dental crown provider Dr. Angela Ferrari.