Dental crowns are built to be strong, long-lasting, and durable. Many people assume that once a crown is placed, it will stay in good condition for many years without worry. While crowns are designed to withstand regular chewing, temperature changes, and everyday use, there are several common habits that can weaken them much faster than expected. If you are considering dental crowns in Flagstaff or anywhere offering modern dental crowns in Arizona, understanding these daily habits can help you protect your investment and maintain long-term oral health.
This blog explores the surprising things people do every day that can reduce the lifespan of a dental crown and how to prevent these issues before they cause costly damage.
Chewing Hard Foods and Using Teeth as Tools
Many people use their teeth for tasks that should be done with tools. Opening packages, biting fingernails, or chewing on pens and pencils can place excessive pressure on a dental crown. Crowns are strong, but they are not designed to handle forceful twisting or pulling. Over time, these habits can cause small cracks, chips, or loosening around the edges of the crown.
Similarly, chewing on ice, hard candies, unpopped popcorn kernels, and bones can weaken the crown structure. Even natural teeth struggle with these hard items, and crowns can be even more vulnerable.
If you want your crown to last longer, avoid using your teeth for anything other than eating soft and moderate foods. Patients seeking dental crowns in Arizona are often surprised to learn that small everyday decisions make a big difference in crown longevity.
Grinding and Clenching Without Realizing It
Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, is one of the most damaging habits for dental crowns. Many people grind or clench their teeth at night without knowing it. The constant pressure wears down enamel and puts intense stress on crowns. This can lead to cracks, fractures, or the crown becoming loose.
Grinding during the day is also harmful. Stress, anxiety, and concentration habits can cause people to press their teeth together unconsciously. If your crown feels sensitive or your jaw feels tired in the morning, bruxism may be the cause.
Dentists who provide dental crowns in Flagstaff often recommend night guards for protection. These custom devices cushion the bite and reduce pressure on the crown while you sleep. Wearing a night guard can significantly extend the lifespan of both crowns and natural teeth.
Skipping Flossing and Daily Dental Care
Many people think that a dental crown does not require the same level of care as a natural tooth. This is a common misconception. The crown itself cannot decay, but the tooth underneath it can. If bacteria collect around the base of the crown, it can lead to gum inflammation, root decay, and infection.
Skipping flossing allows plaque to build up around the crown edges. This can cause the cement seal to weaken, making the crown loose over time. Good oral hygiene is essential to keep the underlying tooth healthy and stable.
Regular brushing and flossing protect both your crown and the tooth supporting it. Patients who receive dental crowns in Arizona are often advised to maintain strict home care routines to ensure long-lasting success.
Consuming Too Many Sugary or Acidic Drinks
Sugary drinks and acidic beverages can weaken the natural tooth structure around a crown. Drinks like soda, fruit juices, sports drinks, and flavored coffees can erode enamel and increase the risk of decay at the crown margins.
Acid does not damage the crown itself, but it can create cavities in the exposed tooth structure near the gumline. Once decay forms under a crown, the entire restoration may need to be replaced.
Drinking plenty of water, rinsing after acidic beverages, and reducing sugar intake can help keep the area around your crown healthy. Dentists offering dental crowns in Flagstaff often emphasize dietary awareness as part of long-term crown care.
Ignoring Small Signs of Discomfort or Changes
Sometimes a crown may feel slightly loose, the bite may feel uneven, or mild sensitivity may develop. Many people ignore these small signs, assuming everything is normal. However, early warning signs can indicate issues such as:
- Worn crown edges
- Cement washout
- Small fractures
- Gum recession around the crown
- Decay beginning underneath
Ignoring these symptoms can lead to bigger problems that require crown replacement or more complex dental work.
Regular dental checkups allow your dentist to catch these issues early. Patients who receive dental crowns in Arizona benefit from routine evaluations to ensure their crowns stay secure and functional.
Using Whitening Products Incorrectly
Teeth whitening products do not change the shade of dental crowns. Some people apply whitening strips or gels directly on crowns, hoping for a brighter appearance. This does not work and can irritate the gums or damage the crown’s surface if used excessively.
Professional guidance is best when whitening is desired. Dentists can provide safe solutions that enhance your smile without affecting your crown. Dental crowns in Flagstaff are often made to match your natural tooth shade, but adjustments over time can be made through professional cosmetic care.
Drinking Hot and Cold Beverages Back-to-Back
Rapid temperature changes can cause materials to expand and contract. Dental crowns are designed to handle normal temperature variation, but extreme shifts can weaken the bonding cement over time.
For example, drinking ice water immediately after hot coffee can cause micro movements in the crown that eventually loosen it. This is not commonly known, but it is a factor that can impact crown stability over several years.
Taking small pauses between hot and cold drinks can help minimize stress on your crown.
Skipping Regular Dental Appointments
Even with good home care, crowns require regular professional attention. Dentists can detect early signs of wear, bite misalignment, or gum problems around the crown that you may not notice.
Professional cleanings remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria that home brushing cannot fully eliminate. This helps preserve the underlying tooth and maintain the strength of the crown.
Patients who maintain consistent dental visits after receiving dental crowns in Arizona are more likely to keep their crowns in excellent condition for many years.
Final Thoughts
Dental crowns are a valuable investment in your oral health. They restore function, protect damaged teeth, and enhance your smile. However, their longevity depends on the habits you practice daily. Chewing hard objects, grinding, skipping flossing, consuming too many acidic drinks, and ignoring early warning signs can significantly shorten the lifespan of a dental crown.
By being aware of these surprising habits and making simple changes, you can protect your crown and ensure it lasts for many years. Whether you are considering dental crowns in Flagstaff or exploring high-quality dental crowns in Arizona, maintaining good habits and regular dental care will help you enjoy strong, healthy, and long-lasting results.
