Care for Dental Restorations Many people require fillings, crowns, bridges, or other prosthetics. Proper care and maintenance are essential to extend the lifespan of these prosthetics and to keep our smiles healthy. Dental restorations are an essential part of maintaining a healthy, functional smile for many of us. Proper care and maintenance are crucial to extending their lifespan and to keep optimal oral health. Daily brushing and flossing, and regular professional checkups are the foundation of restorative care. However there are several other steps patients can take to protect their dental work and prevent future problems.Brushing and FlossingRegular brushing and flossing are just as important to the maintenance of dental work as they are to maintain the health of natural teeth. Be sure to clean all surfaces, especially along the gumline where restorations meet the tooth structure. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, gentle circular motions, and avoid excess pressure. Vigorous brushing can cause damage. Flossing removes plaque and food particles that can work their way under the edges of restorations, and between teeth. Flossing at night, just before bedtime, prevents bacterial growth overnight from food trapped between teeth and at the edges of prosthetics. Avoid Harmful HabitsHard and sticky foods can cause restorations to crack or dislodge over time. Items such as nuts, hard candy, and ice are safer for prosthetics when they are cut or crushed into smaller pieces before eating. More importantly, teeth are not tools. Please do not open packages with teeth, or chew on pens, so that you can get the most life out of your prosthetic. These habits lead to premature wear and tear. Regular Dental CheckupsRegular dental checkups are essential to monitor the condition of restorations and to address any issues that may be discovered. Our team checks for looseness, cracks, chips, and other issues, and repairs or replaces the dental work as necessary. We often recommend wearing a nightguard to patients who grind or clench their teeth. Night guards protect restorations from excessive force and damage overnight. Preventing Recurrent DecayOne of the most common problems for dental work is decay which develops around the edges of prosthetics. This occurs when plaque and bacteria accumulate around the edges, which erodes tooth enamel over time. Diligent oral hygiene and frequent professional cleanings are the best defense. Our team may recommend the use of special tools to keep areas around restorations clean at home. DiscolorationRestorations like fillings and crowns may not respond to teeth whitening treatments the same way natural teeth do, but we are happy to explore the options available to restore their appearance. Solutions may include replacement of an old crown, or applying dental veneers. Longevity and MaintenanceDental restorations can last for decades with proper care. However, they are not indestructible. Please treat restorations with the same care as natural teeth, and address any issues quickly. This avoids more extensive repairs in the future. Great oral hygiene habits and regular checkups are the keys to keeping your smile healthy, and ensuring restorations last for years. |
Contact Information3709 University Dr Suite D Durham, NC 27707-6224 (984) 312-7056 info@mydurhamdentist.com Follow Us |
