If you’ve invested in a dental crown, proper oral hygiene is key to its protection. Brushing around a crown can feel intimidating—what if you loosen or damage it?
The good news is that with the proper technique and tools, you can keep your crown and surrounding teeth clean and healthy without risking damage.
Use the Right Tools and Techniques
Dental crowns are built to be stable and durable. However, your brushing routine can still make a difference—gentleness and consistency go a long way. Here are a few more specific tips:
- Brush twice daily, for two minutes each, using light pressure and a circular motion.
- Carefully angle the brush slightly toward the gumline to clean thoroughly without being aggressive.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid scratching the crown surface or irritating the gums around it.
- Choose a non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste—some whitening formulas are too harsh on crown materials.
Don’t Skip Flossing (Just Be Gentle)
Flossing is just as important as brushing, especially around a crown where food particles and plaque love to hide. But floss carefully to avoid tugging at the edges. Also, instead of snapping floss up and down, slide it gently between teeth, curving it into a “C” shape around each tooth and crown. If traditional floss feels awkward, try floss picks or interdental brushes. When opting for one of these other solutions, ensure they’re soft-tipped and designed for tight spaces.
Monitor and Maintain
Even with excellent oral hygiene, crowns can loosen or wear down over time. Keep an eye out for any of the following changes:
- Sensitivity around the crowned tooth
- Looseness or unusual movement
- Pain when biting or chewing
If anything feels off, don’t wait—call your dentist for an evaluation. To avoid complications altogether, maintain a consistent schedule of routine cleanings and checkups so your dentist can monitor the state of your dental crowns.
Expert Dental Crown Placement and Maintenance in North Tampa, FL
If you’re in North Tampa and want an expert dental care team to ensure precise placement and optimal aftercare of your dental crowns and overall oral health, contact Dr. Roberto Bellegarrigue and the excellent North Tampa Dentistry team to schedule a consultation!