Dental crowns in Cary, NC, are a long-term solution for damaged or decayed teeth. However, to protect both your investment and the natural tooth beneath, flossing daily is essential.
While skipping flossing can let bacteria grow under the crown, many patients are also concerned about loosening their crowns or irritating their gums while doing so. Luckily, with a few expert tips, you can floss with confidence and keep your crown in top shape.
Why Flossing Around a Dental Crown Is Essential
Even with a crown, the tooth beneath remains susceptible to decay and gum disease, particularly at the point where the crown meets your natural tooth. Food particles and plaque can easily settle in this area. If bacteria are not removed daily, they can accumulate and cause inflammation, gum bleeding, decay, or even crown failure.
Flossing helps you:
- Prevent gum disease around crowned teeth.
- Protect the tooth roots and gumline.
- Increase the lifespan of your crown.
Even if your crown looks and feels fine right now, skipping this step could result in costly dental issues.
How to Floss Around a Dental Crown
Now, how can you floss without disturbing or dislodging your crown? Experts in dental hygiene recommend:
- Use waxed floss. It moves easily between the teeth and is less likely to become stuck or shredded.
- Gently move the floss between your teeth. Do not snap or force it in. Make a gentle sawing motion.
- Wrap the floss in a “C” shape around the tooth’s base and slide it just below the gumline.
- Move the floss slowly up and down. Avoid pulling it straight up, as this can loosen your crown. When you’re finished, slide it out the side.
- Repeat this process for each tooth, paying particular attention to the area around the crown. By flossing carefully every day, you will easily make it part of your daily routine.
If you’re unsure, ask your Cary dentist or hygienist for a live demonstration at your next visit. One quick tip can make a big difference!
Flossing Alternatives for People with Crowns
Struggling with traditional floss? Here are safe, effective alternatives approved by dental professionals:
- Floss Threaders: Perfect for tight spaces or bridges.
- Interdental Brushes: Gentle and reusable, these slide between teeth and massage gums.
- Water Flossers: A great option for patients with sensitive gums or dexterity issues. They clean thoroughly without physical contact.
All of these tools can complement or replace traditional floss—just make sure to use them daily.
How Long Do Crowns Last with Proper Care?
With good oral hygiene, including daily flossing, a dental crown can last 10 to 15 years or even longer. Neglecting flossing, however, is one of the top reasons we see premature crown failure here in Cary. Protect your smile by making flossing a non-negotiable habit.
Protect Your Dental Crowns in Cary, NC, with the Right Dental Team
Every crown, like each smile, is unique. If you’re unsure how to care for your restoration, our Cary dental team can help. We take the time to show our patients how to properly care for their crowns, because long-term prevention is always preferable to correction.
Whether you’ve recently received a crown or are thinking about getting one, contact Alliance Dentistry today. We’ll walk you through a care plan that protects your investment while keeping your entire smile healthy for years to come!