Are you one of the many people who have recently had dental crowns placed to restore your smile? If so, it’s important to know that proper aftercare is essential for maintaining a healthy and long-lasting result. From brushing and flossing techniques to diet choices, there are several steps you can take to ensure that your new dental crowns stay in great condition. In this blog post, we’ll share five essential tips for effective dental crown aftercare, helping you keep your smile bright and beautiful for years to come!
Brushing And Flossing
Brushing and flossing are essential parts of maintaining good oral hygiene. Brushing should be done twice a day, with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. It’s important to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the fronts, backs, and chewing surfaces. Use gentle circular motions to clean your teeth thoroughly.
Flossing is equally important as brushing because it helps remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth. Floss at least once a day using about 18 inches (45 cm) of dental floss or tape. Be sure to slide the floss gently up and down into the spaces between each tooth.
If you have trouble flossing due to braces or other dental appliances, ask your dentist for recommendations on alternative cleaning methods like water picks or interdental brushes.
Remember that proper brushing technique takes time — at least two minutes! Also, replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles become frayed.
By practicing proper brushing and flossing techniques daily, you can help keep your mouth healthy in between visits with your dentist!
Proper Storage And Handling Of Crowns
Proper storage and handling of crowns are essential to maintaining their longevity and ensuring they remain in good condition. When not wearing your crowns, it’s important to keep them moist by soaking them in water or a crown solution recommended by your dentist. This helps prevent warping or cracking.
When handling your crowns, be sure to stand over a sink filled with water or place a towel on the countertop. This prevents breakage if the crown accidentally falls while cleaning or adjusting. Avoid using hot water as this can cause damage to the material.
Additionally, never use abrasive cleaners such as toothpaste when cleaning your crown, as these can scratch the surface and create areas where bacteria can grow. Instead, use a soft-bristled brush specifically designed for cleaning crowns along with mild soap or cleanser recommended by your dentist.
Make sure you visit your dentist regularly for adjustments and maintenance of your dental appliance. Properly caring for and storing your crowns will help ensure they last longer without needing replacement – saving you both time and money!
Proper Diet And Hydration
Maintaining a proper diet and staying hydrated is not only important for your overall health but also crucial for taking care of dental crowns. Eating foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients will promote optimal oral health.
Foods that are high in calcium such as milk, cheese, and yogurt can help strengthen teeth and reduce the risk of decay or damage to dental crowns. Vitamin C found in fruits like oranges, strawberries, kiwis, and vegetables like broccoli help boost immunity which is important for fighting off oral infections.
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps wash away food particles stuck between teeth which can cause bacteria buildup if left unattended. Staying hydrated also promotes healthy saliva production which contains enzymes that break down food particles further reducing the risk of plaque formation.
Avoid sugary drinks like soda or sports drinks as they contain high amounts of sugar which can lead to tooth decay over time. Instead, opt for water or unsweetened tea to quench your thirst.
Incorporating these dietary changes into your lifestyle along with maintaining good oral hygiene practices including brushing twice daily and flossing regularly will ensure you have a healthy smile with long-lasting dental crowns.
Rinsing Mouthwash After A Toothbrush Cleansing
After brushing your teeth, you may feel like your mouth is perfectly clean. However, there are still some areas that a toothbrush cannot reach. That’s where mouthwash comes in handy.
Rinsing with mouthwash after brushing can help remove any remaining debris and bacteria from your mouth. It also helps freshen your breath and promote healthy gums.
But not all mouthwashes are created equal, so it’s important to choose one that suits your specific needs. Some contain alcohol which can cause dryness or irritation for those with sensitive mouths, while others may be specifically formulated for people with gum disease or bad breath.
When using mouthwash, it’s best to follow the instructions on the label carefully. Swish the solution around in your mouth for at least 30 seconds before spitting it out, making sure to avoid swallowing any of the liquid.
It’s recommended to wait at least 30 minutes after rinsing with mouthwash before eating or drinking anything as this could affect its effectiveness. So next time you brush your teeth, give an extra boost of freshness by incorporating a rinse of quality mouthwash into your dental routine!
Soothing Compresses For Sore Gums
Soothing compresses can be an effective way of relieving sore gums after getting dental crowns. To make a soothing compress, start by soaking a clean cloth or gauze in warm water. Wring out the excess water and then place the damp cloth on your face where the soreness is located.
Hold the compress against your skin for at least 5-10 minutes. If you feel like it’s losing heat, just soak it again in warm water and repeat until you feel relief. This method works because heat helps to increase blood flow to the affected area which promotes healing.
If you prefer using cold therapy instead of warmth, try placing an ice pack on your cheeks for 15 minutes every hour. Just remember not to apply too much pressure as this can cause further discomfort.
It’s also important to avoid any kind of pressure or irritation around the affected area while waiting for it to heal completely. You may want to avoid eating hard or crunchy foods that require lots of chewing until your gums have fully recovered.
Regularly doing these soothing compresses can help alleviate pain and inflammation caused by dental crown procedures, allowing you to get back into your routine without experiencing any discomfort.
Finishing Off
In summary, taking proper care of your dental crowns is essential for maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile. By following these five essential aftercare tips- brushing and flossing regularly, properly storing and handling dentures, maintaining a healthy diet and hydration levels, rinsing with mouthwash after brushing, and using soothing compresses for sore gums- you can ensure the longevity of your dental crowns.
Remember to also schedule regular check-ups with your dentist to address any concerns or issues that may arise. With proper care and attention, you can enjoy the benefits of having strong and durable dental crowns for years to come.