Welcome to Sachem Dental Group in Suffolk County, where we prioritize your oral health and strive to provide you with the best dental experience possible. Today, we’ll be discussing a common question we often hear from our patients: “Is it risky to floss around my crown?” After all, a lot of people think that flossing will pull the crown of their teeth, so they don’t floss them at all!
Will Flossing Pull Off My Dental Crown?
Flossing around dental crowns is essential for maintaining good oral health and protecting the investment you’ve made in your smile. By following the proper flossing technique and exploring safe or alternative flossing options (like water flossers,) you can ensure the longevity and vitality of your dental crowns. When done properly, flossing will not pull your crown off, but not flossing could.
Flossing Around Dental Crowns is Vital
Dental crowns are a restorative dental treatment used to protect and strengthen a damaged or weakened tooth. While crowns are durable and designed to withstand normal chewing forces, they still require proper care to ensure their longevity. Flossing around dental crowns is crucial because it helps prevent plaque buildup and maintains healthy gums, which are vital for supporting the crown.
When you neglect to floss around your crown, plaque and food particles can accumulate in the tiny edges around the crown where it meets your tooth, creating an ideal environment for harmful bacteria to thrive. Over time, this can lead to gum inflammation, periodontal disease, or new cavities around your crown. If tooth decay develops, your entire crown can fail and fall off your tooth.
Safe Way to Floss Around Crowns
Flossing around dental crowns is not as dangerous as it might seem, and with the right technique, it can become a simple part of your daily oral hygiene routine. Here’s how to do it properly:
Choose the Right Floss:
Opt for dental floss or tape that slides easily between your teeth and the crown. Lightly waxed or unwaxed floss is usually a good choice.
Be Gentle:
Gently guide the floss between your teeth and the crown using a back-and-forth motion until it slips between your teeth. Avoid snapping the floss straight down, as this can cause damage to your gums.
Curve the Floss:
Form a “C” shape around the base of the crown, ensuring the floss hugs the side of your tooth and can slip slightly below the gumline.
Rub Up and Down the Side of Each Tooth:
Slide the floss up and down along the side of the crown/tooth to clean the entire space thoroughly. Then lift it up over your gums and do the same on the adjacent tooth. Repeat this process for each side of your crown and other teeth.
Rinse and Repeat:
Once you’ve flossed between all your teeth, crowns or not, rinse your mouth with water to dislodge any remaining debris.
Water Flossers Are a Good Option
If traditional flossing proves challenging due to dexterity issues or other issues, water flossers can be an excellent alternative. Instead of using string floss, simply aim the water flosser into your tight contacts and trace the edges of your crown.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
At Sachem Dental Group, we care about your dental health and overall well-being. If you have concerns about your dental crowns, we’re here to help. Schedule a consultation or checkup with us today!
