Getting a dental crown is an investment in both your health and your self-confidence. Whether you choose a crown to fix a broken tooth or to finish off a dental implant, you likely want that restoration to stay in great shape for as long as possible. At Palmer Dentistry & Implants, we often tell our patients that while a crown is made of tough materials like porcelain or zirconia, it still needs a little love and attention to reach its full potential.

On average, a crown can last anywhere from ten to fifteen years, but with the right habits, many people keep theirs for much longer. If you have recently received dental crowns in Palmer, MA, or you are thinking about getting one soon, this guide will help you understand how to protect your smile and avoid the need for early replacements.

The Foundation of Great Crown Care

Many people mistakenly believe that because a crown is artificial, it cannot get a cavity. While it is true that the ceramic or metal part of the crown cannot decay, the natural tooth underneath it is still very much alive and vulnerable.

Brushing and Flossing are Non-Negotiable

The most common reason for a crown to fail is decay forming at the margin, which is the tiny area where the edge of the crown meets your natural gumline. If plaque builds up there, bacteria can slip underneath the crown and eat away at the supporting tooth. At Palmer Dentistry & Implants, we recommend brushing twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush. You should pay extra attention to the gumline around the crowned tooth to keep that seal tight and healthy.

Flossing Near Your Restoration

Flossing is just as important as brushing. Some people are afraid they might pull their crown off if they floss, but a properly fitted crown is bonded very securely. Using dental floss or a water flosser daily removes trapped food that your toothbrush simply cannot reach. If you are looking for long-lasting dental crowns in Palmer, MA, keeping the space between your teeth clean is the best way to ensure success.

Watch What You Eat and How You Bite

Even though modern dental materials are incredibly strong, they are not indestructible. Just like your natural teeth, crowns can chip or crack if they are put under too much stress.

Avoid Using Teeth as Tools

We have all been tempted to use our teeth to rip open a bag of chips, pull out a pen cap, or even trim a fingernail. This is a recipe for disaster when you have a crown. The twisting and shearing forces involved in these actions can cause the porcelain to fracture or break the cement seal. If you want to protect your investment at Palmer Dentistry & Implants, always reach for a pair of scissors instead of using your teeth.

Be Mindful of Hard Foods

You don't have to give up your favorite snacks, but a little caution goes a long way. Biting down directly on hard candy, ice cubes, or unpopped popcorn kernels can put thousands of pounds of pressure on a single point of your crown. Try to chew these types of items with your natural molars instead, or better yet, avoid biting down on ice altogether. This simple habit is a huge part of maintaining dental crowns in Palmer, MA.

Managing Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

If you wake up with a sore jaw or a dull headache, you might be grinding your teeth at night. This habit, known as bruxism, is one of the leading causes of crown failure.

The Power of a Nightguard

Nighttime grinding puts a massive amount of constant pressure on your teeth. Over time, this can wear down the biting surface of your crown or cause it to snap off at the base. If you suspect you grind your teeth, the team at Palmer Dentistry & Implants can custom-fit you for a nightguard. This small plastic device acts as a cushion, absorbing the force of the grinding and protecting your crown from damage while you sleep.

Stress Reduction and Jaw Health

Sometimes grinding is related to stress. Finding ways to relax before bed can help, but a physical barrier is usually the most effective way to protect dental crowns in Palmer, MA. During your regular checkups, we always look for signs of wear to see if a protective guard is necessary for you.

Regular Checkups and Professional Cleaning

You might feel like your teeth are fine, but professional eyes can see things that you might miss in your bathroom mirror.

Early Detection is Key

When you visit Palmer Dentistry & Implants every six months, we do more than just clean your teeth. We check the margins of your crowns to make sure they are still sealed perfectly. If we catch a small problem early, like a tiny bit of gum recession or a loose seal, we can often fix it before it turns into a painful infection or a broken tooth.

Professional Polishing

Our dental hygienists use specialized tools to clean around your restorations without scratching them. Keeping the area around your dental crowns in Palmer, MA, free of hardened tartar is something you just can't do at home. Regular visits are the ultimate insurance policy for your smile.

Why Palmer Dentistry & Implants Stands Out

At Palmer Dentistry & Implants, we are not just focused on fixing problems; we are focused on preventing them. We take great pride in our work and want every patient to walk away with a smile that feels comfortable and looks natural. We use the highest quality materials and the latest digital technology to ensure that every crown we place fits like a glove.

If you are currently experiencing any issues with an old crown or if it has been a while since your last exam, our friendly team is here to help. We are dedicated to providing the community with top-tier dental crowns in Palmer, MA, in an environment that feels like home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I whiten my dental crowns?

A: No, dental porcelain and zirconia do not respond to whitening gels. If you are planning to whiten your teeth, it is best to do so before you get your dental crowns in Palmer, MA, so that the dentist can match the crown to your new, brighter shade.

Q: What should I do if my crown feels loose?

A: If a crown feels like it is moving, even a little bit, you should contact Palmer Dentistry & Implants immediately. A loose crown can trap bacteria underneath it very quickly, leading to decay. Do not try to glue it back yourself with over-the-counter products.

Q: Is it normal for a new crown to feel sensitive?

A: It is common to feel a little sensitivity to hot or cold for a few days after the procedure. However, if the pain persists or if it hurts when you bite down, the crown might need a tiny adjustment to its shape.

Q: Can food get stuck under a crown?

A: Food should not be able to get under a well-fitted crown. If you find yourself constantly picking food out from the base of the tooth, the margin may have a gap. This is a sign you should come see us at Palmer Dentistry & Implants for an evaluation.

Q: Are there special toothpastes I should use for my crowns?

A: You don't need a special brand, but we recommend a non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste. Some whitening toothpastes can be gritty and might scratch the polish on your porcelain over time.

Schedule Your Visit with Palmer Dentistry & Implants

Your smile deserves the best possible care. Whether you need a new restoration or just a checkup on your existing dental work, we are ready to assist you. Contact Palmer Dentistry & Implants today to book your appointment. Let us help you keep your crowns and your natural teeth healthy for a lifetime!