2 Habits To Avoid When You Have New Porcelain Dental Crowns

If you have new porcelain dental crowns to repair your cracked teeth, you may wonder how to take care of them so they last as long as possible. If so, the two habits listed below should be avoided to keep from breaking or chipping your new crowns.

Don't Grind Or Clench Your Teeth

When you become stressed or angry, you may subconsciously clench your teeth. Or, you may grind your teeth when you sleep. If you notice you do either one of these, you may put your new crowns at risk of cracking from the pressure.

If you find yourself clenching your teeth, stop and relax for a few seconds. Take a deep breath, and slowly open and close your mouth a few times to relieve the tension and the pressure placed on your crowns. If possible, remove yourself from the situation that is causing the frustration and anger.

If you suspect or know that you grind your teeth while you are asleep, try relaxation techniques before you sleep, such as meditation or visualization exercises. You may want to speak with your dentist about being fitted for a mouth guard. The guard will provide a cushion for your teeth and crowns.

Don't Bite Your Nails

If you have a habit of biting your nails, the constant act of chewing on the hard material could chip or crack the porcelain. To break the habit, become aware of the times you mindlessly start biting on your nails. When you find yourself doing so, stop. Also, keep your nails well manicured to decrease the temptation to bite them, as well as take care of any hangnails that may make you want to bite them off.

For help with breaking this habit, you may also want to put a homemade deterrent on your nails. Mix together a quarter of a teaspoon of cayenne pepper and a tablespoon of water. Dip your fingertips into the mixture, then let them air dry. The hot, bitter taste you experience when you try to bite your nails could make you think twice before doing it. Just make sure you avoid touching your eyes to keep from irritating them.

The above habits are just a few things you need to avoid doing when you have porcelain crowns. For more information on how to properly care for your new dental crowns, you may want to ask your dentist for their advice.

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