Tips from a New York City Cosmetic Dentist on Caring For a Crown

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped "cap" covering a patient's natural tooth to restore its structure in size, shape, and function. It can restore the appearance of a cracked, misshapen, or broken tooth. Once bonded into place, a dental crown will fully encase the visible portion of an individual's natural tooth to the gumline. It is a popular smile makeover procedure that is a versatile, durable option and can correct a wide range of cosmetic flaws. Whether you have one or several dental crowns, they can last many years with proper oral hygiene and care.

At SmilesNY Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry in New York, NY, our dental experts provide this restorative dentistry treatment to improve your oral health and preserve your smile. Contact our practice and book your appointment today.

What is a dental crown?

A dental crown is a custom-made prosthetic tooth that mimics a person's natural tooth. It is a restorative dentistry procedure that repairs and restores a tooth's original shape and size that has been damaged. At SmilesNY Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry, our dental experts provide metal-free porcelain crowns to help repair or strengthen a tooth. The hollow dental crown or "cap" is cemented over the natural tooth or attached to the titanium post of a dental implant. Once in place, it is the only visible part. Dental crowns perform the same way as natural teeth and should also be cared for with routine brushing and flossing, and regular dental visits.

What is proper dental crown care?

With excellent oral hygiene and proper care, your dental crown can last for decades. One of the primary benefits of crowns is their durability. Here are helpful tips from the SmilesNY Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry experts about how to protect your dental crown.

1. Regular dental exams

Routine dental checkups ensure a patient's dental crowns are in good shape and the teeth encased by the dental cap are healthy. Dental checkups confirm that the crown still fits tight and has not been weakened.

2. If the crown becomes loose, seek dental help

A person's bite can change over time, causing a dental crown to become loose. It must be refitted and adjusted immediately so food particles and debris don't become caught underneath, leading to more serious dental concerns.

3. Avoid hard or chewy foods

Dental crowns are strong and durable, but like a person's natural teeth, they can be damaged. Chewing hard candies or ice can crack, chip, or break your crown. Sticky foods can also weaken or loosen this dental fixture.

4. Proper oral hygiene

The best way to keep dental crowns in good condition is to keep your mouth clean and healthy by brushing twice a day and flossing regularly.

5. Wear a mouth guard

Bruxism is a condition in which patients grind, clench, or gnash their teeth. Excessive grinding of the teeth can damage, weaken, or break a dental crown. Wearing a mouth guard or dental appliance at night will help protect this dental restoration.

Do you need a cosmetic dentist in New York, NY?

Dental crowns can mask tooth discoloration, worn-down enamel, and misshapen teeth. One of the primary benefits of dental crowns is their durability – with regular visits to the dentist and proper dental care, they can last for several years. At SmilesNY Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry, our team of dental specialists will create a customized plan to improve your oral health and smile. If you would like to learn more about this smile makeover procedure, contact our professional team to schedule an appointment.