Maintaining Your Restorations: Tips for Long-Lasting Crowns and Bridges

Imagine that you’ve invested in a beautiful dental restoration, a crown or bridge designed to restore your health and confidence. You’re smiling brighter and eating with ease, but then comes the nagging thought: how do you make sure this investment lasts for years to come? 

At Redstone Dental Studio in Lyons, CO, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. We don’t just offer expert care, but also practical advice and routine checkups that help you protect your investment in your new smile. Let’s get into it!

Why Proper Care for Crowns and Bridges Matters

Your dental restorations were carefully crafted to look and feel like your natural teeth, offering both form and function. Whether it’s a crown protecting a weakened tooth or a bridge replacing missing teeth, they’re more than just cosmetic. 

These dental restorations are an essential part of your oral health. But as durable as they are, crowns and bridges aren’t indestructible. Without proper care, they can become vulnerable to wear, damage, or even failure.

The good news is that, with some simple maintenance habits, you can extend the lifespan of your restorations and avoid unnecessary repairs or replacements. Here’s how to keep your crowns and bridges in top shape while enjoying their full benefits.

Tips for Maintaining Crowns and Bridges

Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene

Adopting a consistent oral hygiene routine is the foundation for preserving your restorations. Remember, while the materials used for crowns and bridges won’t decay, the natural teeth supporting them can still be affected by cavities or gum disease. Follow these daily habits to protect your investment:

• Brush twice a day: Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean your teeth thoroughly, paying special attention to the edges of your crowns and bridges where plaque can accumulate.
• Floss daily: For bridges, consider a water flosser or specialized floss threader to clean under the false tooth (pontic) and around the supporting teeth.
• Rinse with mouthwash: An antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria and keep your gums healthy.

Protect Your Restorations from Damage

Crowns and bridges are built to withstand the pressures of daily chewing, but they’re not meant for chewing on ice, opening packages, or grinding your teeth. These habits can lead to chips, cracks, or even the eventual loosening of the restoration.

If you’re prone to teeth grinding, talk to Dr. Derrik Johnson about a custom nightguard to protect your teeth while you sleep. At Redstone Dental Studio, we offer solutions tailored to your needs, ensuring both protection and comfort.

Keep Up with Regular Dental Checkups

Routine dental visits play a crucial role in maintaining your crowns and bridges. During each six-month checkup, Dr. Johnson and our team will carefully inspect your restorations, ensuring they remain secure and free of damage. Additionally, we use advanced technology to monitor your overall oral health, catching potential issues before they become major concerns.

Can’t remember the last time you’ve had a checkup? Don’t wait! Our Lyons office is proud to offer same-day dentistry appointments so you can get back on track quickly and conveniently.

Choose a Balanced Diet

The foods you eat can also affect the longevity of your crowns and bridges. While occasional indulgences are fine, certain habits, like a diet high in sticky candies or extremely hard, crunchy foods, can cause unnecessary strain on your restoration. Instead, opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein sources, and dairy products for strong teeth and gums.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to care for your oral health. Water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria, reducing your risk of decay and gum disease. Plus, staying hydrated supports saliva production, which naturally cleanses your mouth and protects your teeth.

What Makes Redstone Dental Studio Your Dental Home

At Redstone Dental Studio, we understand the importance of protecting your smile, and your investment in it. That’s why we go beyond just providing crowns and bridges. We’re committed to ensuring they last for as long as possible. From leveraging modern, state-of-the-art technology to offering complimentary second opinions for added peace of mind, we prioritize your comfort and confidence.

What’s more, our membership plan provides affordable access to preventive care and discounts for restorative treatments, making it easier to maintain your oral health without worrying about insurance limitations. And when you need immediate solutions, our same-day dentistry options mean less waiting and more smiling.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maintaining Restorations

Do crowns and bridges stain like natural teeth?

While the materials used for crowns and bridges are resistant to stains, their edges and natural supporting teeth can discolor if not properly cared for. Avoid staining foods and drinks like coffee, wine, and tobacco, and maintain a good oral hygiene routine.

Can I eat normally after getting a crown or bridge?

Yes, crowns and bridges are designed to restore normal chewing function. However, it’s best to avoid sticky or overly hard foods, especially right after the placement of your restoration.

What should I do if my crown or bridge feels loose?

If a crown or bridge becomes loose, don’t delay. Call Redstone Dental Studio at (303) 823-6006 for an appointment. We’ll assess the issue and provide the necessary repairs to restore your oral health.

Preserve Your Smile – Schedule Your Next Appointment Today

Your crowns and bridges play an important role in your overall oral health, and with proper care, they can serve you well for many years. At Redstone Dental Studio, we’re here to help you every step of the way, offering personalized guidance and modern, comprehensive care in a warm, welcoming environment.

Ready to protect your smile and maintain the longevity of your restorations? Contact us today at (303) 823-6006 to schedule your next appointment with Dr. Derrik Johnson in Lyons, CO. Your dental home is here to keep your smile shining bright!