What Steps Can You Take to Prevent Damage to a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is designed to protect and restore a tooth that has been weakened, fractured, or treated for decay. While dental crowns are durable and can last for many years, certain behaviors and circumstances may lead to damage or the need for replacement. At Benjamin Lievense, DDS PLLC in Saginaw, MI, Dr. Benjamin Lievense specializes in providing high-quality dental restorations and offers guidance on how to maintain their longevity.

Whether you have just received a new crown or have had one for years, understanding the steps you can take to protect your dental crown — like avoiding hard foods or using your teeth as tools — can help extend its lifespan. Take a closer look here at how to make dental crowns last longer so you can enjoy your beautiful new smile for decades to come.

What are the most common causes of dental crown damage?

Dental crowns are engineered to withstand daily chewing and biting forces, but they are not indestructible. Some of the most common causes of crown damage include the following:

• Biting down on hard objects
• Grinding or clenching teeth (bruxism)
• Using teeth to open packaging
• Chewing ice
• Accidents or trauma to the face
• Poor oral hygiene leading to decay under the crown

Understanding the risks associated with certain habits or activities can help you take proactive measures to avoid unnecessarily or accidentally breaking a dental crown.

How can you keep dental crowns in good shape?

Preventing damage to a dental crown requires a combination of good oral hygiene practices, awareness of potentially harmful activities, and regular dental visits. Some of the most effective steps you can take to keep dental crowns in good shape for as long as possible include:

• Brushing twice daily
• Using fluoride toothpaste
• Flossing carefully around the crown
• Avoiding hard or sticky foods
• Wearing a night guard if you grind your teeth
• Scheduling routine dental checkups
• Not using your teeth as tools

By following these practices, you can help ensure that your dental crown remains securely attached and functions as intended.

What should you do if your dental crown feels loose or breaks?

Despite our best efforts, accidents can happen. If your dental crown becomes loose or detached, it's important to act quickly and avoid attempting a DIY crown repair. Trying to fix or glue the crown back in place yourself could result in further damage to both the restoration and the underlying tooth. Instead, contact Benjamin Lievense, DDS PLLC for professional assistance. Dr. Lievense and our team will assess the situation and determine the appropriate steps to restore your crown or recommend a replacement dental crown if necessary.

How long do dental crowns last with proper care?

With proper care and maintenance, a dental crown can last anywhere from 5 – 15 years and, in some cases, even longer. The material used, the location of the crown in your mouth, and your oral habits all play a role in determining its longevity. Regular dental checkups allow Dr. Lievense to monitor the condition of your crown and address any minor issues before they escalate into major problems.

Protect your smile and boost your confidence with custom dental crowns in Saginaw, MI

Whether you're looking to replace an old dental crown or maintain your existing restoration, our team at Benjamin Lievense, DDS PLLC is here to help. By providing high-quality dental restorations and personalized care, we aim to ensure the health and beauty of your smile for years to come. If you have concerns about your dental crown or are experiencing any issues, contact us today to schedule an appointment with Saginaw, MI dentist and restorative specialist Dr. Benjamin Lievense.