Dental Crown Maintenance: 5 Ways to Protect Your Investment

Quality dental crown care and restoration services in Ames and Perry

Sometimes, a dental filling isn’t enough to repair severe damage or decay. In such cases, a dental crown is the best option to provide the necessary strength and support. At Swanson Family Dental, we are excited to offer top-tier dental crowns to patients in Ames, Perry, and the surrounding locations. Whether you want one or several dental crowns, you can trust our talented team to make dental crowns that look natural and last many years.

Dental crown maintenance tips

After getting a crown, it’s natural to want your new smile to last a lifetime. While dental crowns are designed to be strong and durable, they won’t last forever. The good news is that you can significantly extend their lifespan with proper care. Observe these maintenance tips to get the most from your restoration.

Practice excellent oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and a soft toothbrush. Be thorough around the crown area because plaque and food particles can accumulate there. Additionally, floss your teeth at least once daily, especially before bedtime. Flossing removes unhealthy deposits from areas you can’t reach with your toothbrush. Consider an interdental brush or water flosser if you struggle with traditional dental floss.
Wear a nightguard: Not everyone needs a mouthguard. However, this small appliance is necessary if you grind your teeth when sleeping. Known as bruxism, chronic teeth grinding and clenching exert undue pressure, which can damage or dislodge your crown. A custom nightguard absorbs the pressure, protecting your crown and natural teeth. A bruxism nightguard also reduces strain on your jaw joints and muscles, improving everyday comfort.
Watch out for what you eat: Dental crowns rely on the underlying tooth and surrounding gums to maintain their structural integrity. Stick to a dental-friendly diet and reduce the intake of sugary and acidic foods. The objective is to reduce the count of harmful bacteria in the mouth to maintain healthy gums and teeth. Additionally, reduce the consumption of sticky, hard, or chewy foods. Although crowns are strong, tough foods may loosen them over time.
Don’t use your teeth as tools: Can’t help using your teeth to bite fingernails, crush hard candy, or open bottles? These poor oral habits can fracture or dislodge your crown. Don’t use your teeth to chew or bite anything other than food. Otherwise, this can result in costly repairs or replacements.
Visit your dentist regularly: Even with good at-home dental care, you still need the help of a dentist for complete care. During your dental visit at our Ames or Perry office, we’ll inspect the condition of your crown and address any issues before they progress. We also professionally clean your teeth to remove plaque and tartar from areas your toothbrush can’t reach.

Even though crowns are strong, they can wear out or develop damage over time. Don’t keep using a loose or damaged crown. Notify your dentist immediately if you notice signs of wear or damage. We’ll provide the necessary care to ensure your restoration keeps protecting the tooth underneath.

High-quality dental crowns near me

Do you need a dental crown for your damaged or discolored tooth? Or perhaps you have issues with your crown? Call our office in Ames (515) 233-2174 or Perry (515) 465-5170 for high-quality dental crown services.

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Jessica Swanson, DDS

Jessica Swanson, DDS, is committed to improving dental care access. She earned her bachelor’s and DDS degrees from the University of Iowa, where she received multiple National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research awards. A certified Invisalign provider, her expertise extends beyond her practice as she actively participates in mission trips to Jamaica with the Christian Dental Society and volunteers with local missions. Her extensive experience and dedication highlight her trustworthiness and authority in dentistry.

Rob Swanson, DDS

Rob Swanson, DDS, has been with Swanson Dental since earning his degree from the University of Iowa College of Dentistry. As a member of the American Dental Association, Iowa Dental Association, and Des Moines District Dental Society, he upholds the highest standards of dental care. He is committed to ongoing education, ensuring his practice stays current with the latest advancements in dental materials and technology. A certified Invisalign provider, he is passionate about all aspects of dentistry, particularly working with children.

Lona Kouri, DDS

Lona Kouri, DDS, is strongly committed to patient care. After graduating from the University of Iowa College of Dentistry, she completed advanced training through a General Practice Residency at Loyola University Hospital. Her dedication to dental health is evident in her volunteer work, including missions to Jamaica and local initiatives in Iowa. As a certified Invisalign provider, she delivers high-quality care in a relaxed setting for patients.

Taylor Steffans, DDS

Dr. Taylor Steffans was inspired by her grandfather’s legacy in dentistry to improve smiles and promote oral health for people of all ages. She completed her bachelor’s in Human Physiology and dental degree at the University of Iowa. While practicing in Dallas, TX, she gained valuable experience in implants, sedation dentistry, and Botox injections. She excels in crowns, extractions, and implants. Her compassion and commitment to patients make her a trusted professional in her field.