Whether you’ve recently been fitted with a bridge or dental crown in Waco, you are fortunate to be back to your normal oral function. For the fixture to last, though, requires that you take certain precautions after the procedure is done, one of them being the avoidance of candy. As you read on, you’ll learn why it’s vital to adhere to this to protect your crown or bridge.
What Can Candy Do to Your Crown?
Candy can lead to several problems for your new crown, which include the following:
- Breaking or Chipping the Porcelain – Many forms of candy can be hard and place unnecessary stress on your teeth that can cause them to break. This can lead to you needing a brand-new restoration.
- Lifting or Loosening the Crown or Bridge – The sticky nature of candy can cause your crown or bridge to unseat. It sticks to your teeth while you’re biting down and can then loosen the crown or bridge as your teeth move back and forth. In some cases, the force needed to remove the sticky substance can also cause your fixture to dislodge.
- Losing the Crown or Bridge – If the crown or bridge is loosened for some reason, it will eventually completely dislodge and fall out your mouth. This becomes a dangerous hazard especially when you’re sleeping, as the restoration could fall into your throat and cause choking.
A Final Big Problem with Candy
Another way that candy can damage your crown is by contributing to tooth decay. Over time, the bacteria that cause decay can work their way to the gums and contribute to a host of problems, including gum disease and recession. The loss of soft tissue could cause the crown to unseat and eventually fall out.
This all starts with the primary ingredient that makes candy so attractive – sugar. Although it can be sweet and delicious, it can attract bacteria that feed on it. As these bacteria grow, they release caustic acids that wear down the hard enamel over time and then leave a path of destruction from the dentin down to the gums if not addressed soon enough.
Your Two Allies
You have two allies to help in your quest to protect your crown or dental bridge in Waco. Keep these two factors in mind to use in conjunction with the other information you’ve learned.
- Visit Your Dentist – One way to protect your fixture is to maintain six-month visits with your dentist for cleanings and check-ups. These appointments will ensure that your crown or bridge is still firmly held in place and that it is in the best condition.
- Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene – Brushing and flossing your teeth at least two times a day also help to protect your fixture by clearing away unwanted bacteria and leftover food particles that can contribute to decay.
To learn more about how to sustain your dental crown for years to come, reach out to your dentist in Waco to schedule a visit today.
About the Author
Since graduating from Baylor College of Dentistry, Dr. Rick Cofer has gone on to deliver the absolute best in dental care to his patients. He uses both his background in biology and his knowledge of dentistry to mount a strong defense against bacteria and tooth decay at Premier Family Dental. Dr. Cofer can be reached for more information through his website.