Do you need a dental crown? Are you having difficulty deciding which material to have your crown made from? The dentist in Jacksonville, FL can help you weigh the options and make the best decision. Many people choose metal if the crown is in an out-of-the-way location in the mouth. Below are some of the reasons you might choose metal for your dental crown.

1. Metal Lasts

Metal is a long-lasting material. Of all the types of material types that your dental crown can be made from, metal lasts the longest. You can expect your metal dental crown to last as long as 15 years or more if you maintain good oral hygiene habits and take good care of your crown. Brush your teeth regularly, floss according to your dentist’s instructions, and see the dentist twice annually. Doing these things can help your dental crown last as long as possible.

2. Your Dentist Will Shave Down Less Tooth

When you get a crown, the dentist must shave down part of your tooth to make room for the crown. Metal crowns are very thin – thinner than other materials like porcelain. If you choose to install a metal crown, this means that your dentist will be able to save more of your natural tooth.

3. Less Noticeable At the Back of Your Mouth

As long as you’re getting a crown on one of your molars, a metal crown will be hard to notice. Even though metal doesn’t look like natural tooth enamel, most people won’t see that you have a crown at all. Do you need a dental crown in Jacksonville, FL? If so, call the dental professionals at Mandarin Dentistry to make your next appointment.

Dental crowns look like natural teeth, so are they maintained like natural teeth? That’s a great question! When you get crowns from your dentist in Jacksonville, FL, it’s helpful to know how those crowns are maintained and what you can do to keep them looking their best. Here’s what you need to know about keeping your crowns beautiful and helping them last as long as possible.

Brushing and Flossing

Dental crowns are cleaned much like natural teeth: with regular brushing and flossing. When you brush your crowns, use non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft bristle toothbrush. When flossing, use standard dental floss. To avoid doing damage to the crown when flossing, pull the floss straight down then up, and don’t use it in a sawing motion around the crown, as this could cause the crown to pop off.

When to See the Dentist

After your crowns are installed, continue seeing the dentist every six months, just as you were before you had crowns. During your dental exams, the dentist will inspect your teeth for signs that your crown could be failing or in need of repair.

Can Crowns Be Whitened?

Not all crowns are white to begin without, but some crowns are made from a white tooth-colored material that matches the color of your other teeth. These crowns cannot be whitened. If you whiten your teeth, your natural teeth will be several shades lighter, but your crowns will not. The end result is that your crowns will no longer match your natural teeth.

If you’re not happy with the color of your teeth, talk to your dentist about dental veneers. Dental veneers are a cosmetic tool that can cover stains and discolorations on your teeth, leaving them whiter, brighter and more beautiful.

Signs of a Problem

Know when your dental crowns are experiencing signs of a problem. If you’re noticing an issue, have your dental professional look at your crowns as soon as possible. Some signs of a problem include:

• Pain when you bite down
• Swelling around the crown
• Your crown has visible wear and tear
• Your gumline around the crown is receding

If you have more questions about maintaining your dental crowns in Jacksonville, FL, contact Mandarin Dentistry. We’re here to help you maintain your dental crowns effectively and efficiently, so they’ll last as long as possible.