Common Causes of Damage to Your Dental Crowns
Dental crowns in Falls Church are a great investment in your oral health. They protect damaged teeth and restore your smile. However, like any dental restoration, they can be vulnerable to damage over time if not properly cared for.
Understanding the common causes of damage can help you take the necessary steps to protect them and extend their lifespan.
What Can Cause Damage to Your Dental Crowns?
1. Poor Oral Hygiene
One of the leading causes of dental crown damage is poor oral hygiene. Failing to brush and floss regularly can cause plaque and bacteria to build up around your crown. Over time, this can lead to gum disease, decay under the crown, or crown loosening.
How to Prevent Damage
To keep your crowns in top shape, brush at least twice a day and floss once a day. Don’t forget to schedule regular cleanings with your dentist to maintain good oral hygiene.
2. Chewing Hard Foods
While dental crowns are designed to withstand pressure, they are not invincible. Chewing on hard foods like ice, hard candy, or unpopped popcorn kernels can cause cracks or chips in your crowns.
Be Mindful of What You Eat
If you enjoy hard foods, try to avoid chewing them directly on your crown. Opt for softer foods that won’t put unnecessary stress on your dental work. If you have a hard food habit, speak with your dentist about protective options.
3. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Many people grind their teeth, especially at night, due to stress or other factors. This constant grinding puts immense pressure on your crowns, increasing the likelihood of damage. Over time, bruxism can cause crowns to crack or wear down prematurely.
How to Protect Your Crowns
If you suspect you’re grinding your teeth, especially at night, talk to your dentist about getting a nightguard. This protective device will help absorb the pressure and protect your crowns from unnecessary wear and tear.
4. Trauma or Injury
Accidents happen, and dental crowns can be vulnerable to physical trauma. A fall, car accident, or sports injury can cause damage to your crowns or even dislodge them entirely. Even biting down on something unexpectedly can lead to damage.
Protective Measures for Your Crowns
To protect your crowns from injury, consider wearing a mouthguard while playing contact sports. Being mindful of your crown placement and avoiding sudden, hard impacts can help preserve its longevity.
5. Age of the Crown
Like anything else, dental crowns have a lifespan. Over time, the materials used to create the crowns can wear down, become discolored, or lose their strength. As your crown ages, it becomes more susceptible to damage from the factors mentioned above.
When to Replace Your Crown
If your crown is old and showing signs of wear, it might be time to visit your dentist for a replacement. Regular checkups will help your dentist identify potential issues early, so your crown can be replaced before it becomes problematic.
Keep Your Dental Crowns in Falls Church in Great Shape
Taking care of your dental crowns doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require attention. Regular dental checkups, good oral hygiene, and being mindful of habits that can damage your crowns will keep your smile looking its best for years to come.
At Tyson’s Dental Esthetics, we offer personalized care to help maintain the health of your crowns and other dental work. If you’re concerned about your dental crowns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for an evaluation. Schedule an appointment today!
