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May 20, 2019|Dental Care, Dental Treatment

Extending the Life of Your Dental Work in Ashburn, Virginia

How to Get the Most Out of Fillings, Veneers, Crowns and Bridges

A family smiling

If you’ve had dental work in the past, you may be worried about how the fillings, veneers, crowns, or bridges in your mouth may age and if there are ways to extend the life of the treatment. Good oral hygiene has a lot to do with how well your dental work will hold up—and your natural teeth too, for that matter. Other factors include: your susceptibility to tooth decay and gum disease; your diet; and oral habits like teeth grinding. To summarize, here are the best tips for getting the longest life out of your dental work:

  • Develop a good daily oral hygiene routine at home that includes brushing twice each day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing (or using another dental device to clean between the teeth) at least once a day. Pay special attention to all areas where a filling, veneer or crown meets the gum line.
  • Rid your diet of sugar to the extent possible, and be aware of how frequency of sugar consumption affects your risk. Damage to dental work (and natural teeth!) can be much greater in someone who sucks on hard candy or sips soft drinks throughout the day. Avoid beverages that stain if you have tooth-colored dental work that is not made of porcelain.
  • See your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and exams. Also call your dentist if you experience any pain or increased sensitivity in a tooth that has been filled or capped. Early intervention can often extend the life of dental work when a problem is still small.
  • If you grind your teeth at night, have a night guard made and use it!
  • Choose a skilled dentist who keeps abreast of the latest materials and techniques. This can be demonstrated with continuing education courses and active memberships in professional organizations.

Dental materials have come a long way in the new millennium. With regular visits to your Ashburn dentist at Loudoun Family dental and attention to your oral health at home, your smile can look great for many years to come.

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