Your crown doesn’t get a pass from brushing. Plaque can still build up around the edges. That can irritate the gum that is right beside or under it. Brush your teeth twice a day using a toothbrush and toothpaste that is not too harsh on your teeth. Avoid the kind that’s overly abrasive because it can wear down your crown over time.<\/p>\r\n
Flossing around the crown is just as important. Be gentle. Slide the floss in carefully of snapping it down into your gums. If the crown is next to another tooth cleaning that space between the teeth is extra important. Food particles can get stuck there. Cause trouble if not cleaned properly.<\/p>\r\n
\u2022 A soft toothbrush is your choice here especially if your gums feel sore after the crown is placed. The soft bristles are kinder to gums.<\/p>\r\n
\u2022 Flossing might feel strange for a days. It can be uncomfortable at first. Keep doing it. Most people get used to it quickly. The awkward feeling goes away.<\/p>\r\n
\u2022 If your dentist suggests a toothpaste follow their advice. Don\u2019t pick the whitening toothpaste just because it looks good on the shelf. Some whitening products can damage your crown or the cement that holds it in place.<\/p>\r\n
Crowns are strong but they are not indestructible. Biting straight into something hard is asking for trouble. Ice cubes are a no-no. So are hard candies. You don\u2019t have to act like your tooth is a museum piece but cracking an object with a crowned tooth is not a good idea.<\/p>\r\n
Sticky foods also need attention. Things like chewy candies can pull at your crown especially if the cement that holds it in place has weakened over time. If you feel something pulling at your crown stop immediately. There\u2019s no prize for winning that fight.<\/p>\r\n
Pay attention to how things feel after the first few days. A little sensitivity is normal. Can settle down.. If the pain doesn\u2019t go away that\u2019s a sign to pay attention.<\/p>\r\n
Call your dentist if the crown becomes loose or cracked. Do the same if your bite suddenly feels off. Pain that doesn\u2019t go away is a sign something needs checking.<\/p>\r\n
When your crown looks perfect regular dental visits still matter. Your dentist can check the crown. Also examine the natural tooth underneath it. Problems don\u2019t always show up on the surface. They can. Grow over time.<\/p>\r\n
Cosmetic crowns usually feel easier to live with once you stop thinking about them. Brush your teeth normally. Clean between your teeth with floss. Be careful with foods. That\u2019s most of it.<\/p>\r\n
You don\u2019t need to become nervous about every sandwich. You don\u2019t need to spend your life checking your smile in the mirror. A crown is meant to get out of your way. It\u2019s there so you can eat, talk, laugh and forget about it.<\/p>\r\n