How to Extend the Life of Your Dental Restorations at Friendly Dental

Dental restorations—such as crowns, bridges, veneers, fillings, and implants—play a vital role in preserving your smile and oral function. These treatments can repair damage, improve appearance, and restore your ability to chew and speak properly. However, like natural teeth, dental restorations require proper care to maintain their function and longevity. At Friendly Dental, the best dentist in Aberdeen, NJ, we want to help you make the most of your investment in your smile. Here’s how you can extend the life of your dental restorations with everyday care and smart habits.

1. Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene

The foundation of keeping your dental restorations in great shape is good oral hygiene. Even though materials like porcelain or composite resin don’t decay like natural teeth, the surrounding gums and tooth structure still can.

• Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and food debris.

• Floss daily to clean between teeth and under any dental bridges or around implants.

• Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce harmful bacteria and keep your gums healthy.

By maintaining clean teeth and healthy gums, you reduce the risk of decay and gum disease that could compromise your restoration.

2. Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods

Dental restorations are durable, but not indestructible. Hard or sticky foods can cause crowns or fillings to chip, crack, or become loose.

• Avoid chewing on ice, hard candies, and unpopped popcorn kernels.

• Be cautious with sticky foods like taffy or chewing gum that can pull at your restoration.

• Use your back teeth for harder-to-chew items and avoid biting directly into tough foods with front veneers or crowns.

Being mindful of what you eat goes a long way in protecting your dental work.

3. Wear a Mouthguard If You Grind Your Teeth

Teeth grinding (bruxism) can cause serious damage to both natural teeth and dental restorations. The excessive force from grinding or clenching can cause restorations to crack or wear down prematurely.

If you grind your teeth—especially at night—ask your dentist about a custom night guard. At Friendly Dental, we can create a comfortable, protective guard designed to prevent damage while you sleep.

4. Avoid Using Teeth as Tools

Your teeth (and restorations) are not meant to be used to open packages, tear tape, or bite fingernails. These actions can crack or dislodge a crown, veneer, or filling. Always use scissors, bottle openers, or other tools instead.

5. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Routine dental visits are essential for maintaining both your natural teeth and any dental restorations. At Friendly Dental, the best dentist in Aberdeen, NJ, we recommend checkups every six months, or more often if you have specific oral health concerns.

During your dental visit, we:

• Check the condition of your restorations.

• Look for signs of wear or damage.

• Clean around your dental work to prevent decay or gum disease.

• Offer recommendations to protect your smile.

Preventive care helps catch small issues before they turn into major problems.

6. Address Problems Early

If you notice any issues with your restoration—such as discomfort, sensitivity, a loose crown, or visible cracks—don’t delay. Prompt treatment can prevent further damage and potentially save the restoration.

Waiting too long may lead to the need for replacement or additional procedures like root canals or extractions. If something doesn’t feel right, contact Friendly Dental right away for expert care.

7. Quit Smoking

Smoking affects more than just your overall health—it can also shorten the lifespan of your dental restorations. It increases your risk of gum disease, implant failure, and staining around veneers or crowns.

If you use tobacco products, consider quitting or reducing use to support your oral health and the longevity of your dental treatments.

Contact Us

Your dental restorations are an investment in your oral health and confidence. With proper care, they can last for many years—sometimes even decades. By maintaining excellent hygiene, avoiding harmful habits, and visiting your dentist regularly, you can enjoy the benefits of your dental work for as long as possible.

If you’re unsure how to care for your specific restoration or have concerns about your oral health, our team at Friendly Dental is here to help. As the best dentist in Aberdeen, NJ, we’re dedicated to keeping your smile healthy, functional, and beautiful for years to come. Contact us today to schedule your next visit!