Today, many people are getting dental crowns to protect a weak tooth, restore a large decayed area, restore a tooth after a root canal therapy, or give a discolored tooth a makeover. These dental restorations are effective and can last for many years when maintained properly. 

So, what should you do to protect your crown at all times and keep it in great shape for longer? Consider following these simple tips to attain your objective and save money in the long run.

Prioritize Good Oral Hygiene

Although your crown is artificial and invulnerable to bacteria and decay, it still requires oral care like natural teeth to stay clean and healthy. The underlying tooth structure that supports it is still susceptible to bacteria. Use a fluoride paste to brush a few times a day. 

You will also need to floss every day to eliminate the food particles and germs that may be trapped between your crown and the neighboring tooth or gum. This oral cleaning routine will protect the natural part of the tooth from decaying or getting further damage. Remember to use a soft-bristled brush instead of the hard toothbrushes that can scratch and damage the crown material over time.

Don't Eat Sticky or Hard Foods

Even though dental crowns are durable and robust, they can be damaged. The foods you consume can affect the longevity and functionality of your restoration. For this reason, you should avoid eating sticky foods as they get stuck on the crown. 

Also, chewing hard foods like nuts and hard candies may cause your crown to crack or chip. Crunchy foods aren't recommended either. If you have to bite on something hard, you should do so with caution to avoid breaking the crown.

Get Rid of Your Bad Habits

Bad habits such as grinding teeth and chewing nails can easily loosen your crown, and this will affect its usability. So if you have any of these habits, you should stop right away or get expert help to stop grinding your teeth. Wearing a retainer can also come in handy if you grind your teeth while sleeping.

Avoid Missing Your Dental Appointments

After getting your crown, your dentist will require you to visit them regularly. During each session, the dentist will perform dental cleanings, particularly on hard-to-reach areas, to get rid of tartar, plaque, and any other harmful biofilm. They will also use this chance to check and remedy any problems before they become worse or expensive to fix. So, don't be tempted to skip such appointments

Contact a local dentist to learn more about dental crowns.