A crown represents a significant investment in the form and function of your tooth. When properly cared for, it has the potential to last a lifetime. While a crown is not subject to tooth decay like the enamel of your natural teeth, it will require regular brushing and flossing.
Over time, food particles and bacteria in your mouth can develop into a thin film of plaque. This can harden into tartar, which can affect the gum tissue around the abutment that anchors your crown. Inflamed gum tissue can actually start to pull back from the tooth, exposing pockets where bacteria can infect the gums. If left unchecked, gum disease can cause the loss of bone in the parts of the jaw that anchor the crown in your mouth, thus causing the crown’s abutment to fail.
A porcelain crown will only suffer surface staining. When your crown was made, it was matched to the color of your natural teeth. Things like tobacco use and frequently drinking dark beverages can cause deep staining in your remaining natural teeth. In time, your natural teeth might not perfectly match the color and tone of the crown.
Visiting your dentist twice a year for your routine cleaning and checkup will help maintain gum health and polish away surface staining before it can progress to the point where it causes matching issues.
If you have questions about caring for your crown, please feel free to call us at 805-238-3880 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to seeing you!
