Maintaining Your Dental Crowns: Tips and Tricks for Long-Lasting Results

If you’ve recently received dental crowns in Lewisville, TX, you’re not alone. Crowns are a common and quite effective solution to restore a damaged or decayed tooth. But getting a crown is just the beginning. The real secret to making them last lies in how you care for them every day. Whether it’s brushing techniques or knowing what foods to avoid, every little habit counts.

At Arte Dental & Orthodontics Lewisville, we see many patients asking the same question: “How do I keep my crown looking and working like new?” This guide gives you clear and practical tips to help make your crowns last as long as possible.

Daily Oral Hygiene Practices to Protect Dental Crowns

Taking care of your crown starts with the basics—daily brushing and flossing. Just because a crown isn’t a natural tooth doesn’t mean it’s immune to damage or decay. Plaque and bacteria can still gather at the base and lead to gum issues.

Simple daily habits that go a long way:

• Brush at least twice a day using a soft-bristle toothbrush.
• Use non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss gently around the crown to prevent buildup.
• Consider using a water flosser for much better cleaning in tight spaces.

Consistency here keeps your gums healthy and the supporting tooth structure strong.

Foods to Avoid with Dental Crowns

Even though tooth crowns are strong, they aren’t invincible. The wrong foods can crack, loosen, or damage the crown material over time.

Limit or avoid these items:

• Sticky candy (like taffy or caramel)
• Ice cubes (especially chewing them)
• Popcorn kernels
• Hard nuts or seeds
• Very chewy bread

Also, be cautious with extremely hot or cold foods if you experience sensitivity. A little mindfulness during meals goes a long way.

How Often Should You Visit the Dentist for Crown Checkups?

Many people believe that once a crown is placed, it’s “set and forget.” But like any part of your dental care, regular checkups are key. Ideally, visit your dental clinic in Lewisville every six months unless otherwise recommended.

During your visit, your dentist will:

• Check for signs of wear or cracks
• Ensure the crown is fitting properly
• Clean around the crown and assess gum health
• Take X-rays if needed to monitor the tooth under the crown

Preventive visits help avoid expensive or painful problems down the road.

Recognizing Signs of Wear or Damage in Dental Crowns

It’s important to keep an eye out for warning signs that something may be wrong. Crowns are built to last, but like anything else, they can break down over time.

Red flags to look for:

• A crown that feels loose
• Sharp edges or visible cracks
• Discomfort when biting
• Sensitivity to hot or cold
• Swelling around the crowned tooth

Don’t wait for it to get worse. Contact your cosmetic dentist in Lewisville as soon as you notice any of these symptoms.

The Role of Night Guards in Protecting Crowns from Grinding

Do you usually clench or grind your teeth while sleeping? You’re not alone—and your crown might be taking the brunt of that pressure. Grinding (or bruxism) is one of the most common reasons teeth caps fail earlier than expected.

A custom-fitted night guard can:

• Reduce stress on your crown
• Protect surrounding teeth
• Improve jaw comfort
• Help prevent cracking or loosening

Ask your dentist about getting a night guard if you wake up with sore jaws or have unexplained wear on your teeth.

What to Do If Your Dental Crown Turns Loose or Falls Off

Accidents happen. Sometimes crowns pop off due to sticky foods, trauma, or wear. In case your crown comes loose or falls out:

Here’s what to do:

• Save the crown (if it’s intact).
• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
• Avoid chewing on that side.
• Call your dentist immediately for an appointment.

Do not try to glue the crown back yourself. Temporary dental cement from a pharmacy may help protect the exposed tooth, but it’s not a long-term fix. Only a professional can re-cement it properly or replace it if needed.

Pro tip list to keep crowns in top shape:

• Avoid chewing on non-food items like pens or nails.
• Wear a mouthguard in case you play contact sports.
• Use alcohol-free mouthwash to avoid weakening the cement.
• Stay hydrated to promote a healthy mouth environment.

Maintaining your crown doesn’t require a complete lifestyle change—it’s just about staying informed and making smart choices.

By being proactive, you’ll enjoy a strong, healthy smile for years to come—without unnecessary repairs or discomfort. Whether you’ve just received a crown or are planning one soon, these simple steps can make a big difference.

Final Thought: Treat Crowns with the Same Care You Give Natural Teeth

Dental crowns are a smart and durable solution for restoring your smile. But like all good things, they require care. From the foods you eat to how you sleep, each small choice affects how long your crown stays functional and beautiful.

Choosing a qualified dentist and dental clinic in Lewisville, and following a clear maintenance routine are the best ways to protect your investment.