Restorative treatment can help improve the strength and function of your bite. But if you don’t take proper care of your restoration, then you could suffer more damage. A dental crown in Broomall, PA, can help protect and preserve your natural tooth, but only if you take care of it. With the right maintenance and good oral hygiene, a dental crown could last you up to 15 years. Your dentist can provide you with a full list of aftercare tips that can help you keep your crown strong and healthy for years to come.
Caring for a New Dental Crown in Broomall, PA
When you get a dental crown, the first 24 hours are the most important. It can take a while for your crown to settle and for your tooth and gums to recover from treatment. It’s natural to experience some redness or swelling. However, if you notice any bleeding or if symptoms persist for more than a day, contact your dentist for a follow-up exam. Some patients may experience a day or two of discomfort as they get used to their new bite. But if discomfort continues or you feel any pain, it’s a good idea to revisit your dentist to get your crown adjusted.
Dietary Restrictions
Once your crown has settled, there are relatively few dietary restrictions. However, it’s best to avoid particularly hard or chewy foods for the first 24 hours. These can cause damage or even loosen your crown until it has settled completely. You can drink water as soon as your appointment is complete. If your dentist used local anesthesia (often during the preparation phase of a dental crown), it’s best to avoid chewing while still numb. It’s possible that you could bite your tongue, cheek, or lips without realizing it.
Oral Hygiene Routine
Taking care of a crown is not much different from taking care of a natural tooth. You still need to brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day to help keep your mouth strong and healthy. However, when flossing around your crown, try not to pull the floss back up between your teeth. This can loosen the crown and cause it to fall out. Instead, pull the floss out through the front of your teeth to help keep your crown secure.
Dental Exams
Although crowns are made from a durable material, they can still suffer damage. And if you have decay or disease in the area around a crown, it could negatively affect your restoration. Seeing your dentist every six months is the best way to help prevent damage or catch early warning signs of a problem. Of course, if you notice any looseness or other problems with your crown, call your dentist for an exam.
Dental crowns are versatile treatment options used to help restore your teeth and improve your bite. At Williamsburg Dental, we provide high-quality dental crowns to treat a variety of dental conditions. Call our office today at (610) 347-8302 to schedule a consultation and see if a dental crown is right for you.