How to Floss Around a Dental Crown
Start Gently Around the Crown
Take a piece of regular dental floss and gently work it between the crowned tooth and the tooth next to it. Don’t force it down. Slowly work it back and forth until the floss reaches the gum.
Once the floss reaches the gum, gently tuck it around the side of the crowned tooth and work it up and down. Don’t push it straight out. This should allow you to clean the edge of the crown without digging into the gum.
Don’t Pull Hard on the Floss
• Gentle pressure is key to avoid damaging the gums.
• If the space between the teeth is tight, sliding the floss through the space may be easier than trying to pull it through.
• The floss should reach the gum, but not be pulled under the crown.
Getting Under the Crown Edge
Some crowns have a small ledge along the edge of the restored tooth, which can sometimes hold plaque. This can be hard to clean, especially if it’s in an awkward position.
After working the floss down towards the gum, gently tuck it around the crowned tooth and work it up and down to clear away plaque on both sides of the tooth. In essence, you’re wiping the tooth with the floss
Making Flossing Around a Crown a Habit
Once you get used to the motions of cleaning around a crowned tooth, it should take little time. As such, flossing becomes second nature without having to think about how to do it.
Water flossers can also be used if flossing proves too difficult. They can prove easier to manipulate around dental work, although I would still recommend regular flossing as a habit if you can manage it, as the wiping action can be important for cleaning.
• Flossing should ideally be done once a day, as part of a regular evening routine.
• A water flosser can be a good tool if you find it hard to reach around the crowned tooth
but should not be used as an excuse to avoid flossing between teeth
• Persistent bleeding after gentle daily flossing should be brought up to a dentist, especially around a crowned tooth.
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The insights shared in our articles are meant to educate and inform, not to replace a face-to-face consultation. Every smile is unique, and a proper diagnosis can only be made by a qualified clinical professional. Please book an appointment with our team or consult your local dentist for advice tailored to your specific oral health needs.