Dental restorations like crowns, bridges, and implants can help restore your smile, improve your oral health, and make day-to-day activities like chewing and speaking more comfortable. Proper care is important to keep these restorations in top shape. Here are some essential tips for maintaining crowns, bridges, and implants to last as long as possible.
Quick Guide:
- Maintain a Good Oral Hygiene Routine
- Use the Right Dental Products
- Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods
- Regular Dental Check-Ups
- Be Mindful of Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
- Address Issues Promptly
- Keep a Balanced Diet
- Use Antibacterial Mouthwash
1. Maintain a Good Oral Hygiene Routine
The foundation of caring for dental restorations lies in maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine. Whether you have crowns, bridges, or implants, brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing daily is crucial to keep plaque and bacteria from building up around the restoration and your natural teeth.
Consider using a soft-bristled toothbrush, as it’s gentle on your gums and the surface of restorations. Be sure to angle the brush to the gum line where plaque accumulates. Electric toothbrushes can also be a great option, as they offer effective cleaning and can be especially beneficial for those who struggle with mobility.
2. Use the Right Dental Products
Not all toothpaste is created equal, and some can be too abrasive for dental restorations. Choose a non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste to avoid scratching the surface of your crowns, bridges, or implants. Toothpastes designed for sensitive teeth are often a good choice, as they provide gentle cleaning.
Flossing is equally important, particularly around bridges and implants, where plaque can easily collect. To thoroughly clean hard-to-reach spots, you might want to use special tools like a floss threader, interdental brushes, or even a water flosser.
3. Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods
Dental restorations are durable, but they aren’t indestructible. Chewing hard foods such as ice, nuts, or hard lollies can put unnecessary pressure on crowns, bridges, or implants, increasing the risk of cracking or damage.
Similarly, sticky foods like toffee or chewing gum can loosen restorations and make cleaning more difficult. If you have a dental implant or bridge, biting on something particularly sticky could even dislodge it. It’s best to minimise your intake of these types of foods to keep your restorations in good condition.
4. Regular Dental Check-Ups
One of the most important things you can do to maintain your dental restorations is to see your dentist regularly. Routine check-ups allow your dentist to monitor the health of your crowns, bridges, and implants, as well as your overall oral health.
During these visits, your dentist will assess for any signs of wear or damage, perform professional cleanings to remove plaque in hard-to-reach areas, and make sure your restorations are functioning correctly. It’s generally recommended to visit the dentist every six months, but your dentist may suggest a different schedule based on your specific needs.
5. Be Mindful of Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
If you tend to grind your teeth, especially at night, it can seriously damage your dental restorations. Teeth grinding, or bruxism can weaken crowns, damage bridges, and strain implants unnecessarily.
If you suffer from bruxism, your dentist might recommend a custom-made night guard. This guard will provide a cushion between your teeth, protecting both your restorations and natural teeth from wear and tear caused by grinding.
6. Address Issues Promptly
If you notice any unusual symptoms—such as a loose bridge, discomfort around an implant, or a cracked crown, it’s crucial to address the issue immediately. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more serious problems, potentially requiring expensive repairs or replacements.
If you have concerns about any of your restorations, contact your dentist as soon as possible. Early intervention can often prevent small issues from becoming bigger complications.
7. Keep a Balanced Diet
A healthy diet plays an important role in the longevity of dental restorations. Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly calcium and Vitamin D, can help support natural teeth and gums and keep restorations secure.
Avoid excessive sugary or acidic foods and drinks, as they can promote plaque build-up and gum inflammation, potentially compromising the health of your restorations. Instead, choose foods like leafy greens, dairy products, and lean proteins to maintain good oral health.
8. Use Antibacterial Mouthwash
An antibacterial mouthwash can be beneficial for individuals with dental restorations, especially if you have implants. Using mouthwash can help reduce the level of bacteria in your mouth, promoting healthier gums and preventing peri-implantitis, a type of infection that can occur around dental implants.
Look for an alcohol-free mouthwash to prevent dry mouth, which can exacerbate dental issues. Your dentist may recommend a specific brand or formula suited to your particular needs.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of dental restorations requires good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and mindful eating and drinking. By following these tips, you can help extend the life of your crowns, bridges, and implants, ensuring that your smile stays healthy and bright for years to come. Remember, your dentist is always there to provide guidance and address any concerns, so keep communication open and don’t hesitate to seek their advice when needed.
