How To Care For Your CEREC Crown For Long-Lasting Results

Caring for your CEREC dental crown properly will help maximize its lifespan and maintain your beautiful smile. Known for their convenience and durability, these crowns are custom-designed and applied during a single dental visit. However, like natural teeth, they require dedicated care to maintain excellent shape over time. Below, we’ll outline best practices for your CEREC crown aftercare so you can enjoy long-lasting results.

What Makes CEREC Crowns Unique?

Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics, or CEREC crowns, are crafted using advanced dental technology that enables one-visit restorations. During your appointment, digital impressions are used to design a perfectly fitted ceramic crown. This crown is then milled on-site and bonded to your tooth, restoring its strength and appearance.

Unlike traditional crowns, which require multiple visits and temporary placements, CEREC same-day dental crowns offer immediate results. The high-quality ceramic material used matches your natural tooth color while being durable enough to withstand daily wear. With proper care, CEREC crowns can last up to 10 to 15 years.

Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene Daily

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is the foundation of effective CEREC crown aftercare. Although your crown resists decay, the tooth underneath can still be vulnerable if not cared for properly.

• Brush Twice Daily: Use a soft-bristle toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste to clean gently around the crown and gumline. Non-abrasive toothpaste protects both the crown and the surrounding teeth.
• Floss Regularly: Flossing removes debris and plaque from hard-to-reach areas around the crown. Consider using floss threaders if necessary to avoid dislodging the crown.
• Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash: A daily rinse helps prevent bacteria buildup and gum disease, which can compromise the crown’s stability.

Keeping your mouth clean not only extends the life of your crown but also promotes healthy gums and prevents additional dental issues.

Be Mindful of What You Eat

While CEREC crowns are strong, certain foods and habits can increase the likelihood of wear or damage. Following these tips helps protect your investment.

• Avoid Hard Foods: Chewing ice, hard candies, or popcorn kernels can crack or chip the crown.
• Say No to Sticky Sweets: Foods like caramels or taffy can pull at the crown and loosen its bond.
• Limit Sugary Treats: While the crown resists decay, excessive sugar can harm your natural teeth and gums.
• Cut Up Tough Foods: Instead of biting into hard fruits or crusty bread directly, cut them into smaller, manageable pieces.

Opting for softer foods and practicing cautious eating habits significantly reduces unnecessary strain on your crown.

Additional Read: CEREC Same-Day Crowns: Your Quick Fix After Root Canal Treatment

Protect Your Crown from Damage

Preventing physical damage to your CEREC dental crown ensures long-lasting performance. If you grind your teeth while sleeping (a condition known as bruxism), it’s essential to consider the following measures:

• Wear a Custom Mouthguard: A nightguard protects your crown and other teeth by absorbing pressure caused by grinding or clenching.
• Never Use Your Teeth as Tools: Avoid opening packages or biting down on non-food items, which can easily damage your crown.
• Address TMJ Issues: If you experience jaw tension or discomfort, consult your dentist to identify stress-related habits that might compromise your crown.

Small precautions can make a big difference in preserving the structural integrity of your dental restoration.

Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

Routine visits to your dentist are essential for keeping your crown and overall dental health in top condition. During these checkups, your dentist will examine the crown for any signs of wear or damage and ensure the underlying tooth structure remains healthy.

Professional cleanings remove plaque or tartar buildup that could compromise your gum health around the crown. Your dentist might also perform X-rays to detect any hidden issues with the crown or surrounding teeth.

These proactive visits help extend the life of your CEREC same-day dental crowns while addressing any potential problems early on.

Know When to Call Your Dentist

Awareness of warning signs can prevent minor crown issues from escalating into major problems. Contact your dentist if you notice any of the following concerns:

• Discomfort or Sensitivity: Persistent sensitivity could indicate a fit issue or gum irritation around the crown.
• Cracks or Chips: Damaged crowns can compromise both functionality and aesthetics, necessitating immediate repair.
• Looseness or Movement: A crown that feels loose may need to be rebonded to prevent further complications.

Prompt action prevents further damage and ensures your crown continues to function as intended.

Caring for Your CEREC Crown Guarantees Long-Lasting Results

By following these simple yet effective care tips, you can enjoy the beauty and durability of your CEREC dental crown for years to come. From maintaining excellent oral hygiene to scheduling regular dental visits, taking proactive steps ensures optimal performance and a natural-looking smile.

At Affinity Dental, our team is here to answer any questions about CEREC crown aftercare or handle any concerns you may have. Call us today at 773-904-7079 to book your next appointment and experience the exceptional care you deserve!