Dental bridges and crowns are among the most versatile and practical tools to use for your missing tooth. Several complications can be associated with dental crowns, but most of them are avoidable. The longer your crown lasts, the greater the chances of problems arising. Here is how you can avoid dental crown problems.
Choose the Best Provider
Before getting your crowns fixed, take your time to evaluate your options and go only for the best specialist. This is someone who can help you select the right material by examining your teeth color and shape and offers the best quality of crowns. An excellent specialist, Juan M. Carrillo, DMD, has successfully helped Richmond crowns and bridges patients, and they are all left satisfied. Dr. Carrillo performs a comprehensive examination to determine the type of crown that is best for you.
Eat Properly and Cautiously
Here is where you stay away from hard and sticky food, be keen on very hot or cold food, and chew gently. This is because your crown could be sensitive to pressure, heat, or cold. However, note that after your crown is put in, heat sensitivity should last for about a week and cold sensitivity about six weeks. You can consult with your doctor if they persist.
Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene
This involves brushing at least twice a day just like you would do to your natural teeth to reduce plaque risks. Flossing is also crucial for your crowns, but is done differently from how it is done on the natural teeth. Instead of flossing up and down, you do it side by side. When brushing, do it gently and use the right type of toothbrush and paste as instructed by the specialist.
Use the Best Type of Crowns
Some types of crowns, such as porcelain, are very brittle and more likely to fail. Other options are more robust and can withstand higher grinding pressures, and are more durable. Ensure that your provider discusses all the possible options according to your specific needs.
Invest in a Bite Guard
This is a special covering for your teeth and can offer protection during activities that threaten dental damage, such as sporting activities. The mouth guard should be durable, comfortable, and easy to clean. There are different types of guards you can use, including stock mouth protectors, boil and bite, and custom mouth protectors. You can also use a special guard known as a nocturnal bite plate or bite splint that protects your teeth at night against grinding that happens while you sleep.
Adjusting Your Bite
Sometimes your crowned tooth can unevenly contact other teeth, which can cause dental-related complications such as jaw pain, TMJ, and headache. There are several ways you can avoid this, including having your dentist smooth the areas that do not fit correctly, and the use of braces.
Be Alert on Your Crowns Condition
This will help you notice any changes in your crowns that can cause further complications if not recognized on time. For example, a loose crown can be easily swallowed or become lodged in the throat. If you notice any loose crown, contact your dentist as soon as possible.
Finally, the care you give to your dental crowns can play a significant role in preventing problems. However, it is good to work with your dentist in everything you try out to ensure that you are doing the right thing. If you have any concerns about dental crowns, you can contact Juan M. Carrillo, DMD, for help.