The Dos and Don’ts of Caring for Dental Crowns

Dental crowns can play a key role when it comes to maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile. Whether they protect a damaged tooth or enhance your smile’s appearance, crowns are a valuable investment in your oral health. But just like your natural teeth, crowns need proper care to last as long as possible.

At Durango Dental, we offer expert crown services and guidance to help you keep your crowns and your smile in top shape.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers and protects a tooth that has been damaged, weakened, or treated (such as after a root canal). Crowns are designed to restore a tooth’s strength, function, and appearance, all while blending seamlessly with the rest of your teeth for a natural look.

With good care, dental crowns typically last between 10 to 15 years, and in some cases, even longer. Proper hygiene, regular dental visits, and some simple care habits can make a big difference in how long your crown stays strong and beautiful.

Types of Dental Crowns

It’s good to remember that not all crowns are the same. There are different types of dental crowns, each suited for different needs. Durango Dental offers:

  • Porcelain crowns: Popular for front teeth because they look the most like natural enamel

  • Gold crowns: Extremely durable and less likely to cause wear on opposing teeth, but more noticeable due to their color

  • Zirconia crowns: Made from a strong ceramic material; a great option for those who want durability with a natural appearance

The right type of crown for you will depend on factors like the location of the tooth, your bite, and your personal preference. Our specialists at Durango Dental can help you make the best choice, so don’t hesitate to contact us to book an appointment.

Why Are Dental Crowns Needed?

  • Protecting a weakened tooth from breaking: Teeth that have been compromised by decay or large fillings are more vulnerable to cracks and fractures, and a crown can provide essential reinforcement.

  • Restoring a broken or worn-down tooth: Crowns rebuild the structure and function of teeth that have been chipped, fractured, or worn from grinding or everyday wear.

  • Covering a tooth after a root canal: After root canal treatment, a tooth can become more brittle, and a crown helps protect it for long-term strength and durability.

  • Supporting a dental bridge: Crowns serve as anchors for dental bridges, filling gaps caused by missing teeth and restoring a complete, functional smile.

  • Improving the appearance of a discolored or misshapen tooth: Crowns can enhance the look of teeth that don't respond well to whitening treatments or that are naturally misshapen.

 

However, crowns aren't always the first line of treatment. If a tooth can be restored with a filling or other treatment, a crown might not be necessary. Every situation is unique. That’s why your dental professional will carefully evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and explain all available options to ensure you receive the best possible solution for your smile and your long-term dental health.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

Strengthen and protect compromised teeth

Crowns act as a protective shield for teeth that have been weakened by decay, fractures, or large fillings. By covering the tooth completely, they prevent further damage and reduce the risk of needing an extraction in the future.

Improve chewing and speaking function

When a tooth is damaged, even basic functions like chewing and speaking can become uncomfortable or difficult. A well-placed crown restores the tooth's full functionality, helping you eat and communicate with ease and confidence again.

Restore the natural shape, size, and color of a tooth

Crowns are custom-designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, restoring proper alignment and appearance. Whether you have a misshapen, small, or heavily discolored tooth, a crown can give it a natural look that fits beautifully into your smile.

Enhance overall smile aesthetics

Beyond function, crowns also play a huge role in cosmetic improvement. They can dramatically improve the appearance of teeth that are worn down, chipped, or uneven, helping you achieve a balanced, harmonious smile that boosts your self-esteem.

Prevent the need for more extensive dental work later on

By reinforcing and protecting vulnerable teeth early on, crowns can help you avoid more complex and costly dental procedures in the future, such as root canals, extractions, or dental implants.

Dos for Dental Crown Care

Short-Term Care

  • Follow post-placement instructions: After getting a crown, it’s important to follow your dentist’s directions closely to allow for proper healing.

  • Be gentle: Stick to soft foods for the first few days to avoid putting pressure on the new crown.

  • Manage sensitivity: It’s normal for the area near a dental crown to feel sensitive. Use toothpaste for sensitive teeth and avoid extremely hot or cold foods.

Long-Term Care

  • Brush and floss daily: Just like with natural teeth, the area around dental crowns needs regular cleaning to prevent plaque buildup at the gumline.

  • Use a non-abrasive toothpaste: Gentle products protect both your crown and your natural enamel.

  • Schedule regular dental visits: Professional cleanings and checkups at Durango Dental are essential to keep your crowns and mouth healthy.

Don’ts for Dental Crown Care

Short-Term Care

  • Don’t eat sticky and hard foods: Stay away from gum, caramels, hard candies, and anything that could dislodge or damage your new crown.

  • Don’t chew on the crown side immediately: Give the crown a few days to settle before using it for heavier chewing.

Long-Term Care

  • Don’t use your teeth as tools: Opening packages or biting nails can weaken both natural teeth and crowns.

  • Don’t grind your teeth: If you tend to grind or clench, ask your dentist about a night guard to protect your crown and your natural teeth.

Dental Crown Services Near You

At Durango Dental, we’re committed to providing personalized, expert care to help you maintain a healthy smile for years to come. Whether you’re considering a dental crown for the first time or need help caring for an existing one, reach out to our team.

To schedule an appointment and learn more about how we can support your dental health and your confidence with beautiful, durable crowns, contact us today.