How Are Dental Crowns Maintained?

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.