Dental crowns and bridges are permanent dental prosthetic devices that differ from temporary removable devices such as dentures, and as such, they have an altogether different set of maintenance steps. Below are some of the common questions that wearers ask about the protection and maintenance of their crowns and bridges.
■ Are there activities to avoid to ensure that crowns and bridges do not get dislodged?
As a permanent solution to broken or damage teeth, the steps to protect crowns and bridges are practically the same as those for protecting permanent teeth. However, if you are wearing a temporary crown or bridge as you wait for the fabrication of the permanent version, the best way to protect them is to avoid chewing hard food or other hard objects. Sticky foods may also dislodge a temporary crown or bridge, and thus are best avoided.
■ Would having crowns and bridges affect your outdoor activities significantly?
Wearing a permanent crown or bridge shouldn’t impact your outdoor activities other than normal. If your activities involve significant physical contact, you can help protect your dental prosthetics by wearing a mouthguard or helmet.
■ Why is it safe to continue playing sports without having to worry about your crowns and bridges?
When the glue used to attach a crown or bridge has solidified, it’s practically safe for the wearer to resume with his or her favorite sports or outdoor activities because permanent crowns and bridges—especially those installed by a highly capable dentist—are just as strong as your permanent teeth.
■ When can you resume full activity after the crowns or bridges recoup?
The material used to glue a crown or bridge permanently has usually set by the time a patient leaves the dental office, so you can resume full activity almost immediately after having a permanent crown or bridge installed. With that in mind, be mindful of the decay that can develop in the area where the crown or bridge meets the tooth. Brush and floss carefully and regularly to prevent problems.
Sources:
How To Protect Your Teeth During Sports, colgate.com
After Crowns & Bridges, crystallakefamilydentistry.com
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