Common Questions About Dental Crowns and Habits That Could Affect Them

At Scenic Bluffs Dental, Drs. Jay and Samantha Clare work closely with patients to restore damaged or weakened teeth using high-quality dental crowns. While crowns are built to be durable and long-lasting, certain habits, especially ones you may not even think twice about, can affect their longevity. 

If you’re concerned about how your daily routines might impact your crowns, here are some frequently asked questions that can help you better protect your investment:

Can chewing ice damage my dental crown?

Yes. Chewing on ice is a common habit that can put unnecessary stress on both natural teeth and dental crowns. The hardness of ice cubes can cause tiny fractures or even cracks in the crown material over time. We recommend avoiding this habit entirely to prevent chipping or loosening your crown, especially if it is placed on a molar that takes a lot of pressure during chewing.

Is it okay to grind or clench my teeth if I have a crown?

Teeth grinding or clenching, especially during sleep, can severely damage dental crowns. This habit, also known as bruxism, can wear down the surface of the crown and compromise the bond between the crown and your natural tooth. If you grind your teeth, we recommend a custom night guard to protect your crown and surrounding teeth while you sleep.

Will biting my nails hurt my crown?

Biting your nails can expose your dental crown to unusual stress and may even cause it to loosen or crack over time. This habit also increases your risk of introducing harmful bacteria to your mouth, which could affect the underlying tooth or gum tissue. We encourage patients to break the nail-biting habit to preserve the integrity of their crowns and overall oral health.

Does eating sticky or hard foods affect the crown’s durability?

Sticky foods like caramel or taffy can tug at your crown and possibly pull it out of place, while hard foods such as nuts or popcorn kernels can cause chips or cracks. Although crowns are strong, they are not invincible. We often advise patients to enjoy these types of foods with caution or avoid them altogether if they want their crown to last longer.

Is poor oral hygiene a risk to my crown?

Absolutely! While the crown itself is not subject to decay, the natural tooth underneath it still is. Neglecting regular brushing and flossing can lead to decay at the crown’s margins or cause gum disease, which may compromise the stability of the crown. Our team stresses the importance of maintaining excellent oral hygiene to protect both the crown and the tooth supporting it.

How can I schedule an appointment?

If you have a dental crown or are considering getting one, it is important to understand how your everyday habits can impact its health and performance. At Scenic Bluffs Dental, Drs. Jay and Samantha Clare are here to help you care for your crowns, so they remain strong and functional for years to come. To learn more or schedule a consultation, call (715) 997-4990.