If you’ve recently received a dental crown—or are considering one—it’s important to know how to properly care for it. Dental crowns are a fantastic solution for restoring damaged or weakened teeth, but like any dental investment, they require proper maintenance to stay functional and beautiful for years to come.
At Webster Groves Dental, Dr. Matthew S. Wenzel and our team are committed to helping patients in Webster Groves, MO protect their smiles. Whether your crown is made of porcelain, ceramic, or another durable material, following the right care routine can maximize its lifespan and ensure a healthy mouth.
In this blog, we’ll go over what to do (and what to avoid) to help your crown last as long as possible.
Why Proper Care Matters
Dental crowns are strong, but they’re not indestructible. While they protect the underlying tooth structure, crowns can still wear down, chip, or become loose over time—especially if they’re not maintained properly.
With the right care, a crown can last 10–15 years or longer. Without proper care, issues like decay, gum disease, or even crown failure can occur much sooner. That’s why it’s essential to treat your crown with the same level of care you give to your natural teeth.
Do: Brush and Floss Daily
Just because a crown isn’t a natural tooth doesn’t mean it’s immune to plaque and bacteria. The tooth beneath the crown can still be vulnerable to decay at the margin where the crown meets your natural tooth.
- Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss once a day, taking care to gently clean around the crown to remove plaque and food particles.
Consider using a floss threader or water flosser if your crown is part of a dental bridge or located in a hard-to-reach area.
Do: Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Routine dental exams and cleanings are essential to maintaining not just your crown, but your overall oral health. During your visits to Webster Groves Dental, we’ll:
- Check the integrity and fit of your crown
- Assess the surrounding gums for signs of inflammation
- Take X-rays if needed to monitor the underlying tooth
- Professionally clean plaque and tartar buildup
These visits allow Dr. Wenzel to catch any issues early—before they become costly or painful problems.
Do: Wear a Nightguard if You Grind Your Teeth
If you grind or clench your teeth at night (a condition known as bruxism), you’re putting your crown—and the rest of your smile—at risk. A custom nightguard can protect your crown from unnecessary pressure and prevent premature wear or fractures.
Ask our team during your next visit if a nightguard is right for you.
Don’t: Chew on Hard Objects
Avoid chewing on:
- Ice
- Pens or pencils
- Fingernails
- Hard candies
- Popcorn kernels
These can all crack or chip a crown, just like they can damage natural teeth. If you tend to chew on things when you’re stressed or distracted, try replacing the habit with sugar-free gum or another healthy alternative.
Don’t: Use Your Teeth as Tools
Using your teeth to open packaging, bite off clothing tags, or tear tape may seem harmless—but it puts your crown (and your enamel) at risk. Always use the proper tools instead of your teeth.
Don’t: Skip Oral Hygiene Just Because You Have a Crown
Some patients mistakenly believe that crowns don’t need as much care as natural teeth. However, neglecting the gum line or adjacent teeth can lead to:
- Gum recession
- Decay under the crown
- Periodontal disease
- Bad breath
Continue to prioritize your oral hygiene daily and treat your crown like a vital part of your natural smile.
What to Watch For
Even with great care, crowns can occasionally develop problems. Contact your dentist right away if you notice:
- A loose or wobbly crown
- Sensitivity or pain near the crowned tooth
- Cracks or visible damage
- A bad taste around the crown (could indicate decay or infection)
At Webster Groves Dental, we’re here to provide prompt and effective treatment if anything goes wrong with your crown.
Keep Your Smile Strong and Healthy in Webster Groves, MO
Your dental crown is an important part of your oral health—and with the right care, it can last for many years. By following these do’s and don’ts, you’ll protect your crown, maintain your comfort, and avoid unnecessary dental work down the road.
Need help with your dental crown or have questions about crown care?
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Matthew Wenzel at Webster Groves Dental. We’re here to keep your smile strong, beautiful, and protected.