By Maylands Dental Centre 
For many, dental crowns have become a necessary part of life, a solution to a range of dental issues from damaged teeth to tooth decay. These custom-made crowns, whether they’re all-ceramic crowns, base metal alloy crowns, or composite resin crowns, are a significant investment in your oral health, and it’s crucial to take proper care of them.
This guide will cover everything you need to know about dental crowns and how to maintain them. From understanding what dental crowns are and how they function to the importance of oral hygiene in keeping your dental crowns in good shape to recognising and managing potential issues with dental crowns. We’ll also delve into the long-term options for maintaining oral hygiene with dental crowns.
We’ll provide you with essential tips and tricks for dental crown care, from the right way to brush your teeth with dental crowns to the role of mouthwash in the care of dental crowns, to diet considerations for those with dental crowns, and the importance of regular dental check-ups for dental crown maintenance.
So, whether you’re new to the world of dental crowns or you’ve had your crowns for some time, this guide is for you. Let’s embark on this journey towards better oral health with dental crowns together. Read on to learn more about how to keep your dental crowns and your smile in superb condition.
Summary of the Content:
- Dental crowns require diligent care and good oral hygiene, similar to natural teeth.
- Good oral hygiene prevents gum disease, tooth decay, and dental emergencies, ensuring the longevity of dental crowns.
- Key oral hygiene practices include choosing the right toothbrush, using proper brushing techniques, toothpaste selection, and using an interdental brush.
- Flossing removes plaque and food particles, protecting the gums.
- Mouthwash eliminates bacteria, contributes to strengthening the teeth, and freshens breath.
- Diet significantly impacts the health and longevity of dental crowns.
- Regular dental check-ups allow for early detection of oral problems, professional cleaning, crown inspection, and review of oral hygiene habits.
- Potential issues with dental crowns include sensitivity, loose crowns, chipped or broken crowns, gum disease, and discolouration.
- Long-term strategies for maintaining oral hygiene with dental crowns include regular professional cleanings, using nightguards, maintaining a healthy diet, proper home care, regular use of fluoride, avoiding bad habits, and regular check-ups.
Understanding Dental Crowns: What They Are and How They Function
Dental crowns, often used in dental restoration, completely cover or “cap” a tooth or dental implant. These full-coverage restorations are used when there’s a large cavity that’s threatening a tooth’s health. They can also be used to manage discoloured teeth as well as misshapen teeth. They’re bonded to the tooth using dental cement or adhesive.
Dental crowns are durable restorations that can be made from different materials. They’re usually fabricated using indirect methods, which means they’re made outside the mouth instead of being made directly on the patient’s tooth.
Crowns are used to improve the strength or appearance of teeth. They play a vital role in dental health, restoring the function of your teeth and giving you back your healthy smile.
However, like natural teeth, dental crowns require diligent care and good oral hygiene habits to stay in top shape.
The Importance of Oral Hygiene in Keeping Your Dental Crowns in Good Shape
Maintaining oral hygiene is paramount for keeping your dental crowns in good shape. Here’s why:
- Prevention of gum disease:
Regular brushing and flossing with soft-bristled toothbrushes and non-abrasive toothpaste can help keep your gums healthy. This is essential for maintaining the longevity of your dental crowns and overall oral health. Gum disease can lead to serious dental issues, including the loosening of the teeth with dental crowns. - Avoidance of tooth decay:
Even with a dental crown, the underlying natural teeth are still susceptible to decay, especially at the gum line. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups can help in the early detection and treatment of tooth decay. - Aesthetics:
Regular cleaning can prevent staining and keep your dental crowns looking as good as new. A clean, healthy smile can boost your confidence and improve your overall quality of life. - Avoidance of dental emergencies:
Poor oral hygiene can lead to dental emergencies such as toothaches, abscess formation, and loosening of the crowns. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental appointments can help prevent these emergencies. - Longevity of dental crowns:
With proper care, dental crowns can last for many years. Regular oral hygiene habits, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups, are key to extending the life of your dental crowns.
Potential issues that could arise from poor oral hygiene include:
- Tooth decay:
If plaque is not regularly removed, it can lead to tooth decay, which can cause tooth sensitivity and, eventually, pain. - Gum disease: