If you've got damaged teeth, but they're not to the point of needed to be extracted, ceramic crowns may be the answer. Ceramic crowns can add a protective layer around the damaged tooth, which will allow you to avoid tooth loss. It will also help you avoid further damage to the tooth. One thing to remember is that your ceramic crowns will need special care and attention if you want to avoid additional problems. Here are three steps you should take to care for your ceramic crowns.

Avoid Anything that can Stain Your Crowns

Your crowns will be designed to be the same color as your natural teeth. They'll look and act just like your natural teeth, which means they'll be susceptible to stains. The last thing you want is to have your ceramic crowns damaged by stains and discoloration. You can prevent that by watching what you consume. Once you have your crowns in place, you'll need to avoid anything that can cause stains, including red wine, fruit punch, cigarettes, and even soy sauce. If you are going to consume those items, be sure to brush your teeth as soon as possible. If you're not near your toothbrush, rinse your mouth with clear water to help wash the stains away before they get a chance to set into the ceramic.

Have a Custom Mouth Guard Made

Once your crowns are in place, you'll need to have your dentist fit you for a custom mouth guard. You'll want to protect your crowns from damage caused by contact sports, or even from grinding your teeth at night. You might not realize this, but certain things can damage your crowns, including contact during sports and the pressure that's put on your teeth when you grind them. The mouth guard will help prevent that type of damage. It's important to note that other activities can damage your crowns as well. Those activities include chewing on ice – or your fingernails – and eating sticky foods. In fact, biting down on a caramel apple can pull the ceramic crown right off your tooth.

Know When to See Your Dentist

Your ceramic crowns will be designed to last you for many years. However, you'll still need to continue with your normal dental visits. You'll also need to watch for problems with your crowns. If you notice redness or swelling around the base of your crowns, or they've come loose, you'll need to see your dentist as soon as possible. It's also important that you see your dentist if you develop pain under the crowns.

Contact a dental office like Thornley Dental for more information and assistance.