If you’ve recently had crowns or bridges placed, or if you’re considering getting them, you may be wondering how to best care for your new dental work. Crowns and bridges are fantastic solutions for restoring your smile, but just like natural teeth, they need proper care to last long and stay in good condition. So, what are the best ways to ensure they help enhance your oral health? Let’s look out for some essential tips.
Tip 1: Maintain a Solid Oral Hygiene Routine
The foundation of good oral health always starts with regular brushing and flossing. When you have crowns or bridges, this routine becomes even more important. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste helps strengthen the enamel and prevent plaque buildup around the crown or bridge, which can lead to decay in the surrounding teeth or gums. Don’t forget to floss daily to clean between your teeth and under the bridge.
Special floss threaders can be particularly helpful when flossing around bridges, as they can navigate the areas that are harder to reach.
Tip 2: Be Mindful of What You Eat
While crowns and bridges are durable, they aren’t indestructible. To maintain their longevity, be mindful of your eating habits. Avoid chewing on hard foods like ice, nuts, or hard candies, which can put excessive pressure on your dental work and cause damage. Sticky foods like caramel or chewing gum can also be risky, as they may loosen or dislodge the bridge.
Opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, which support both your oral and overall health. The healthier your teeth and gums, the longer your crowns and bridges will stay in good condition.
Tip 3: Don’t Skip Your Dental Checkups
Even with crowns and bridges, regular dental visits are a must. Your dentist will want to ensure that your crowns or bridges are still fitting properly and that the surrounding teeth and gums remain healthy. Sometimes, small issues can go unnoticed without professional care, so regular checkups allow your dentist to catch and address any problems before they turn into bigger concerns.
Tip 4: Address Teeth Grinding or Clenching
Do you grind your teeth at night or clench your jaw when stressed? These habits can cause serious wear and tear on your crowns and bridges. Over time, they can weaken or crack the materials. If you suffer from teeth grinding (also known as bruxism), speak to your dentist about getting a custom night guard to protect your teeth.
This small step can prevent unnecessary damage and extend the life of your crowns and bridges significantly.
Tip 5: Pay Attention to Any Changes
After your crowns or bridges are placed, keep an eye on how they feel in your mouth. If you experience any discomfort, or sensitivity, or that your bite feels off, don’t ignore it. Small adjustments are sometimes needed to ensure your crowns or bridges are functioning as they should.
Communicate with your dentist right away if something doesn’t seem right. The sooner issues are addressed, the easier they are to fix, preventing future complications.
Tip 6: Stay Hydrated for Gum Health
Your gums play a critical role in supporting both your crowns and bridges, so keeping them healthy is key. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep your mouth hydrated and wash away food particles that, if left, can lead to plaque buildup. Water also supports saliva production, which helps neutralize acids and keep your gums healthy.
A Bright, Healthy Smile with Crowns and Bridges
With the right care and attention, crowns and bridges can not only restore your smile but enhance your oral health for years to come. By maintaining a good oral hygiene routine, watching what you eat, and keeping up with regular dental visits, you’re well on your way to getting the most out of your dental work. And don’t forget—address any concerns early, protect against grinding, and keep your gums healthy for the best results.
Schedule a consultation with our expert at Smyle Square Dental for more information about the crown and bridges treatment in Fursungi.
