Closeup of colorful candies as texture

Foods to Avoid When Wearing Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are an efficient solution for restoring damaged or weakened teeth. These crowns are tooth-shaped caps placed over the natural tooth by a dentist to fortify it and restore its appearance and functionality. If you’re considering dental crowns, consult Clifford C. Compton III DDS, PA. Our expertise in dentistry in Concord, NC allows us to cater to your dental needs and concerns.

One particular question that patients typically have regarding dental crowns is whether there are certain foods that need to be avoided. Our family dentistry professionals list a few answers.

Dental Crown Overview

One of the most common uses of dental crowns is in emergency dentistry, where a temporary crown is placed to repair the tooth and prevent bacteria from entering and infecting the tooth. With proper care, dental crowns can last up to 15 years. To maintain the integrity of your dental crowns, it’s essential to have good dental practices such as flossing and brushing your teeth twice per day.

In addition to good dental practices prescribed by your dentist, the types of foods you consume also play a crucial role in the care of your dental crowns.

Crunchy or Sticky Food

Avoid foods that are very sticky or crunchy, as they can cause your crowns to break. It’s also essential to avoid any foods that require a great amount of force to chew such as taffy and caramel, as this could damage or displace the dental crown. Foods that are harder to chew, such as hard granola, and hard candy, should also be avoided because it’s the equivalent of teeth grinding for those suffering from sleep apnea.

Hard Foods

Some other foods that can be harmful to dental crowns and dental implants alike include hard pretzels, nuts, and seeds, as well as chewing ice. Raw vegetables such as carrots, squash, and broccoli, while generally healthy due to their nutritional value, can also be harmful to dental crowns due to their hard texture.

Instead, it’s best to boil these veggies so they become easier to chew. Softer foods are also ideal for those with jaw joint problems and who are undergoing TMD / TMJ treatments.

In summary, taking care of your dental crowns involves having good dental practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly, and being mindful of the types of foods you consume. Contact our dental office for more information.