Dental crowns are a vital tool in restorative dentistry at the dental office near me. They serve as protective shells that encase and protect misaligned, cracked, discolored, or severely decayed teeth or as tooth replacements atop dental implants. In either application, crowns offer an excellent solution for restoring the form, function, and aesthetics of a healthy natural tooth.
These versatile restorations can be fabricated from a range of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or combinations thereof. While dental crowns generally offer impressive durability and longevity, it’s important to keep in mind that they’re not indestructible and require care to retain their strength and visual appeal.
Can My Dental Crowns Chip?
Dental crowns are designed to be durable and long-lasting. However, they are still susceptible to damage, including chipping, which can occur due to:
- Trauma. Accidentals, sports injuries, or biting down on hard objects can lead to dental crown chipping or fracture.
- Poor fit. A dental crown that’s not properly fitted or bonded to the underlying tooth structure is more prone to chipping or dislodgement.
- Bruxism. Habitual teeth grinding or clenching (or bruxism) places significant stress on dental crowns and increases the risk of chipping.
- Normal wear: The normal wear and tear from chewing, biting, and speaking can gradually weaken dental crowns and make them more susceptible to chipping.
Tips for Properly Caring for Your Dental Crowns
To help prevent chipping and maintain the integrity of dental crowns, follow these tips:
- Commit to good oral hygiene practices. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice daily and flossing daily to remove plaque-causing bacteria.
- Avoid hard foods. Be cautious when consuming especially hard or sticky foods that can put excessive stress on dental crowns. Try to limit these foods in your diet to minimize chipping risk.
- Wear a mouthguard. Anyone participating in contact sports or who tends to grind their teeth at night should inquire about custom-fitted mouthguards to protect dental crowns from damage.
- Regular dental exams. Schedule routine dental exams and cleanings to maintain your overall oral health, monitor the condition of your dental crowns, and address any potential chipping issues before they escalate.
Precisely Placed Dental Crowns in Troy, NY
If you’re in the Troy, NY, area and interested in the restorative benefits of dental crowns and the techniques that ensure their longevity, contact Dr. Hogeun Chi and the team at Evergreen Dental Partners. To schedule a consultation or if you're searching for a "dental office near me," we’re here to assist you.