Over the years, prosthetic devices have been used in teeth treatment. When a tooth is broken or damaged by cavities, the use of prosthetic devices comes in handy. Without fixing such a tooth, patients have to spend too much energy fixing toothaches.
What are dental crowns?
Dental crowns are prosthetic devices that are used to cap a tooth that is damaged. They are usually tooth-shaped to mimic the shape of the affected tooth. The crown is cemented on an existing tooth in a patient. However, a dental crown can also be used on dental implants, in a situation where there is a missing tooth.
What are the benefits of a dental crown?
The only way to appreciate the role of the dental crowns you got from your dentist is to understand how they are useful. Here are a couple of benefits you should consider:
- They offer protection to teeth by acting as an added layer to the enamel of your tooth. A tooth capped with a dental crown can withstand decay longer than those without.
- Dental crowns improve the aesthetic appeal of teeth. When your tooth has a cavity, the dark discoloration differs from the original color of your teeth. The cosmetic dentistry in Calgary, AB will put a dental crown on the affected tooth that matches the color of your other teeth.
- Crowns are useful for installing dental bridges. When a patient has a missing tooth, dental bridges are used to fill the gap. Dental crowns in Calgary are, in this case, used as anchors to the artificial teeth bridging the gaps.
- They hold together parts of a broken tooth. A crack in your tooth can cause a split in the enamel. A crown will help hold the pieces together and keep the tooth strong.
- They prolong the longevity of teeth. Even though teeth are meant to last a lifetime, it is never the case for all people. Some people require the reinforcement of dental crowns to improve the duration of their teeth.
How do you take care of dental crowns?
As the enamel of your teeth, crowns are susceptible to decay and cavities. This is only if they are not well taken care of. A dental crown can last as long as 7-10 years, or more. Technically, the stakes differ depending on the type of dental crowns you have. A dentist will recommend the most suitable type for your needs. However, it is your responsibility to take good care of the crowns you get to increase the effectiveness of your dental treatment. Ultimately, the care you accord them can impact their longevity.
- Brush your teeth every day
Having crowns for your teeth is not your ticket to lazy land. Brushing your teeth at least twice every day is the best way to stay ahead of your oral hygiene. Besides, it will help you fight against plaque and tartar.
- Floss regularly
Dental flossing is taken for granted by most people, even though it is paramount for oral health. Cleaning between your teeth will prevent plaque from building up. This will boost the longevity of your crowns.
- Avoid hard foods
Getting dental crowns is nothing like getting braces or aligners. However, the kind of foods you bite into and chew can weaken your crowns. Hard foods like nuts, carrots, and hard candies can damage your crown. The damage may not be immediate, but gradual.
- Steer away from sticky foods
Chewing gum is a bad dental care practice. Most chewing gums contain excess sugars that speedily lead to cavities. Besides, the stickiness of gum can get caught in your crowns. This is especially true for the first few weeks after your procedure. Be especially careful about the area around and beneath your crown that is prone to decay.
- Watch out for extreme temperature
Over time, you may not have a lot of issues with your crowns. However, before you get used to the new tooth status, you must adjust your eating habits. Very hot foods and drinks can cause sensitivity in your treated tooth, which can be uncomfortable. On the other hand, if they are too cold, they can still trigger sensitivity like hot foods.
Taking an active role in your oral hygiene and dental care is the only way to ensure you do not undo all that your dentist has worked hard to do for your teeth.