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Don't Let Dieting Impact Your Oral Health

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Don't Let Dieting Impact Your Oral Health

Like many people who need to lose a few pounds, I try diet after diet in an attempt to find one that finally works for me. I learned the hard way that I need to make sure any diet will not harm my teeth, even if it does help me lose a few pounds. I learned this lesson when following a grapefruit diet. There are many versions of this, but the version I tried had me eat a grapefruit alone several times each day. It was supposed to suppress my appetite. I helped keep me from munching on unhealthy snacks, but the acid in the fruit took a toll on my tooth enamel and I quickly started getting lots of cavities. I created this blog to remind people that change up their diets often to make sure the foods they are eating are not harming their teeth.

Do You Need Replacement Crowns?

25 August 2016
 Categories: Dentist, Blog

Crowns are wonderful restorative devices and can last for years. In some circumstances, you may need to have them replaced, however. You should consult with your dental professional regularly to make certain your current crowns are still giving you the protection and the look that you need.

Materials

Your current crowns are likely made from ceramics, porcelain and metal, or gold alloys. Although gold is generally only used on back teeth now, it is extremely durable. Base metal alloys are also used, and they allow for less tooth to be removed. All of the current crown types now used work extremely well. If you need a new crown, you have several excellent choices.

Appearance

Certain problems can develop over time that may require a crown replacement. You may simply want the crown replaced for cosmetic reasons. When your crown was first fashioned, it was tinted the color of your other teeth. If you have your teeth whitened afterwards, the crown will not match and may be particularly noticeable. Also, some of the older crowns that were fused to metal will show a silver line when your gums recede as they age. This line will only increase as time goes by. Finally, you may simply chip your old crown enough that others can see the damage.

Decay

Your tooth can decay, even after you have a crown attached. This decay often happens when the crown is sealed to the tooth. If you have a crown, you need to pay particular attention to brushing and flossing around it. If the tooth becomes too decayed underneath the crown, you will need a root canal as well as a new crown. If the decay becomes too pronounced, your dentist will be unable to save the tooth at all. If you notice any problem with your crowns, you need to see your dentist immediately in order to preserve as much tooth as possible. Some decay is only detectable through x-ray and even then it is hard to find beneath the crown.

In many instances, your crown will be good for thirty years or more, but no dental appliance can last forever. Consult with your dentist if you notice anything around the edges of the crown or experience any pain. If a cosmetic issue arises, only you can decide if replacement is worth the cost of the procedure. Fortunately, you have several options for regaining a healthy and attractive smile.