Having a dental crown placed can be a significant investment in not only your oral health, but your confidence and overall wellbeing. Dr. TJ O'Shea and his team in Roswell, GA understand this and want to make sure you have all the information you need to take care of your new dental crown. This blog will provide some tips on how to ensure your crown lasts as long as possible.

Understanding Your Dental Crown

A dental crown, also known as a cap, is a type of dental restoration that fully cups over the part of a tooth or dental implant that lies at and above the gum line. Once it's put into place, a crown fully encases the entire visible portion of a tooth and becomes the tooth's new outer surface. Your dentist, Dr. TJ O'Shea, uses a crown to restore a tooth's shape and size, strength, and/or to improve its appearance.

Now that you have your new dental crown, it's essential to take proper care of it. Not only will this help to maintain your oral health, but it will also help to extend the life of your crown. Here are some tips to help you do just that:

Avoid Hard Foods

While dental crowns are designed to be durable and strong, they are not invincible. Hard foods like ice, hard candy, or even some hard vegetables can potentially damage your crown. Try to avoid chewing these types of foods with your crowned tooth as much as possible.

Also, if you have a habit of grinding your teeth, it might be a good idea to talk to Dr. O'Shea about getting a night guard. This can help to protect your crown (and your other teeth) from unnecessary wear and tear.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Just because your tooth is covered by a crown doesn't mean it's immune from the dangers of plaque and tartar. It's still very important to maintain good oral hygiene habits. This includes brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily, paying special attention to the area around your crown.

Regular check-ups and cleanings are also crucial. Dr. O'Shea and his team can help to keep your crown in good shape and catch any potential problems early.

Don't Neglect Your Gums

Healthy gums are key to the longevity of your crown. Gum disease can lead to receding gums, which can expose the base of your crown, leading to issues like sensitivity and decay. Make sure to keep your gums healthy by brushing and flossing regularly and using an antibacterial mouthwash.

Also, don't forget to schedule regular check-ups with Dr. O'Shea. He can monitor your gum health and provide treatment if necessary.

Protect Your Crown During Sports

If you play sports or engage in any physical activity that could potentially lead to a blow to the mouth, it's a good idea to protect your crown with a mouth guard. This can help to prevent damage to your crown and your other teeth.

Dr. O'Shea can provide you with a custom-fitted mouth guard that will provide the best protection for your crown and your entire smile.

Your Dental Health is Our Priority in Roswell, GA

At TJ O'Shea DMD in Roswell, your oral health is our top priority. We're here to help you take the best possible care of your new dental crown and all aspects of your dental health. If you have any questions or concerns about your new crown, don't hesitate to reach out to us at (770) 772-9999. We're always here to help. And if it's time for your next check-up, or if you're experiencing any issues with your crown, don't wait - request an appointment today!