Dental crowns and other restorations, such as porcelain veneers, inlays, onlays, and even dental bridges, provide patients with the replacement or repair of a natural tooth. Crowns are made to act as another layer of protection against damage to the natural tooth. However, patients who do not properly care for these restorations may find themselves in situations where they need to have them replaced because they become broken or damaged due to foods they’ve eaten. When you’ve made an investment in your smile with Dr. Joseph Cavallo, it is vital that you take care of these restorations to help them last. This includes avoiding certain foods that may damage them. Below are a list of some foods to avoid as they can cause significant damage to these repairs:
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Raw fruits and vegetables. Certain fruits and vegetables can be tough on dental restorations, including apples or carrots. Be sure to cut these foods into slices or smaller pieces for protection.
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Sticky foods. Candies such as caramel and taffy are a no-go for patients with dental restorations. They can dislodge a dental crown or even pull one off of a tooth.
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Hard snacks. Thick, crusty breads and hard pretzels can chip a tooth or crack dental restorations when biting down. It’s a good idea to stick to softer foods to prevent this from happening.
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Popcorn. Popcorn is known for causing two common problems. In additional to breaking a tooth or restoration when chewing on a hard kernel, shells can also become stuck underneath dental crowns and bridges and cause pain or infection.
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Ice cubes. As refreshing and satisfying as an ice cube can be on a hot summer day, it’s a horrible idea to chew them as they risk cracking, chipping, and fracturing natural teeth and dental restorations.
Do you have questions about tooth restoration?
If you are in need of dental restorations, or have them and want more information on the best ways to care for them, book an appointment with Dr. Joseph Cavallo and his team in Woodbridge, Virginia. His facility, located at 12502-A Lake Ridge Road, offers services to new and established patients who call the office at (703) 490-5888.
