You’ve just gotten a shiny new dental crown and your tooth is finally back in the spotlight, looking like royalty. However, before you go flashing that regal smile at every opportunity, let’s talk about something that doesn’t get enough attention: what not to do after getting a crown.
Crowns are durable, but they’re not indestructible. In fact, some everyday habits might be secretly sabotaging the protection a tooth crown offers. At McCullough Dental, we’ve seen the good, the bad, and the downright worst when it comes to crown care. So we’re sharing all of our tricks to help you maintain your crowns.
Here are 5 things that can cut your crown’s reign short:
1. The Ice-Crunching Catastrophe
Sure, it’s refreshing. It’s crunchy. It’s… secretly evil? Ice might seem innocent, but crunching on it can cause microfractures in your crown (and your natural teeth, too). Treat your mouth like a spa, not a demolition zone.
Sip chilled drinks through a straw, and skip the ice-munching temptation.
2. The “Teeth as Tools” Trap
Need to rip open a snack bag or tear off a tag? Reach for the scissors, not your crown! Your teeth weren’t designed to double as a Swiss Army knife, and doing so can crack or dislodge your crown faster than you can say, “I regret everything.”
Keep a pocket tool or scissors nearby if you find yourself frequently using your teeth like a utility belt.
3. The Silent Stress of Sleep Grinding
Nighttime grinding (bruxism) puts serious stress on crowns. Over time, all that pressure can lead to wear, chipping, or even a total crown failure. Since most people don’t even realize they do it, this one flies under the radar.
Ask us about a custom night guard to protect your crown while you catch Z’s like royalty.
4. The “Sip and Stain” Spiral
Staining isn’t just for natural teeth. Porcelain crowns are stain-resistant, but not stain-proof. Over time, repeated exposure to dark beverages can cause discoloration around the crown margin or dull its luster. If you’re sipping all day long (looking at you, bottomless coffee lovers), you’re giving stains a full-time job.
Rinse with water after sipping, and try drinking darker beverages through a straw (yes—even red wine if you’re feeling fancy).
5. The Crown Neglect Effect
A crown might be artificial, but the tooth underneath is still alive and kicking. It’s still vulnerable to decay at the gumline. Neglecting brushing or flossing can lead to cavities under the crown. Yes, that’s a thing. And no, you don’t want it.
Floss gently around the crown and brush like it’s still a real tooth, because it is.
Keep Your Crown Strong for Years
Your crown may be strong, beautiful, and worthy of admiration, but it still needs care. At McCullough Dental, we’re here to help make sure your crown stays in top shape for years to come. If it’s been a while since your last checkup or you’re not sure if that night grinding is happening, book an appointment with us!
Ready to Give Your Crown the Royal Treatment?
Don’t wait for a crack, chip, or ouch to tell you something’s wrong. Whether you’re rocking a brand-new crown or one that’s been through a few holiday dinners, it’s never too early (or too late) for a check-in.
Call McCullough Dental today to schedule your crown check, ask about a custom night guard, or get answers to your royal dental questions. We’ll help you protect your smile’s throne one crown at a time!