What to Know About the Dental Crowns Melbourne Loves
What Not to Do After Getting a Dental Crown
Getting a dental crown is a common procedure that many people undergo to restore the function and appearance of a damaged tooth. While dental crowns are highly durable and can last for many years, the success and longevity of your crown also depend on how well you take care of it after the procedure. At Artistic Touch Dentistry, home to the dental crowns Melbourne relies on, we guide our patients through the entire process, including what to avoid after getting a crown. Here are some crucial tips on what not to do, ensuring your new crown remains in excellent condition for as long as possible.
1. Don’t Chew Hard Foods on the Crown
Immediately after getting a dental crown, and even after it has fully set, it’s important to avoid chewing hard foods on the crowned tooth. Hard foods can cause damage such as cracking or chipping. Foods to avoid include hard candies, ice, and very crunchy foods like raw vegetables. Stick to softer foods that don’t require aggressive chewing or apply uneven pressure on your teeth.
2. Avoid Sticky or Chewy Foods
Sticky and chewy foods can be detrimental to dental crowns. These types of foods can pull at the crown, potentially causing it to become loose or even detach. Foods like caramel, taffy, and gum should be avoided, especially during the first few weeks after your crown is placed.
3. Don’t Neglect Oral Hygiene
Just because a tooth is crowned doesn’t mean it’s protected from decay or gum disease. It’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene practices after getting a crown. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash to keep the area around the crown clean and free from harmful bacteria. Neglecting these practices can lead to issues like gum disease which can undermine the base of the crowned tooth.
4. Avoid Grinding or Clenching Your Teeth
If you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, especially at night, it can pose a serious risk to your new crown. This habit, known as bruxism, can exert excessive force on the crown, leading to cracks or loosening over time. If you know you grind or clench your teeth, talk to your dentist about getting a night guard to protect both your crown and other teeth.
5. Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools
It can be tempting to use your teeth to open packages, cut tape, or remove bottle caps, but this is a bad idea for everyone, especially those with dental crowns. Using your teeth as tools can exert inappropriate force on the crown, risking damage. Always use the appropriate tool for the job and keep your teeth safe.
6. Don’t Ignore Discomfort or Irregularities
After getting a dental crown, some sensitivity or discomfort may be normal at first, especially if the crowned tooth still has a nerve in it. However, if you experience ongoing pain, or if the crown feels loose or like it’s not aligned properly with your bite, it’s important to contact your dentist. These could be signs that the crown needs adjusting or that there are other issues that need to be addressed.
7. Avoid Delaying Follow-Up Visits
After your crown has been placed, your dentist will likely recommend a follow-up visit to ensure that everything is settling well and that your bite is correct. Skipping these appointments can lead to undetected issues that could compromise the crown or your oral health. Always keep these appointments to ensure any minor adjustments can be made before they turn into major issues.
Why Trust Artistic Touch Dentistry for Dental Crowns?
Artistic Touch Dentistry is renowned for providing the dental crowns Melbourne patients love. Our expertise and dedication to quality care ensure that every crown is crafted and placed with precision. We use only the highest quality materials and the latest technology to create crowns that not only look natural but also function excellently.
Keep Your Crown in Top Shape
Getting a dental crown can significantly improve the function and appearance of your tooth, but the aftercare is just as important as the procedure itself. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can extend the life of your crown and maintain your overall oral health. If you’re considering dental crowns, turn to Artistic Touch Dentistry, the dental practice Melbourne depends on for superior dental care. Contact us today to learn more about how we can restore the beauty and functionality of your smile with our trusted dental crown solutions.