How to Protect Your Dental Crowns This Summer
Summer is a season of sunshine, vacations, and backyard BBQs, but it can also bring hidden risks to your dental health, especially if you have dental crowns. As your family dentist in Downers Grove, we urge our patients not to neglect the care and maintenance of their dental crowns while enjoying summer activities. Whether you’re heading to the beach or enjoying a cold treat on a hot day, a little extra awareness can go a long way in preserving your smile. If you’re searching for a “dentist near me” to help maintain your dental crowns this season, we’re here to help.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are custom-made caps that cover a damaged or weakened tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and function. Crowns are typically made from porcelain, ceramic, or a combination of materials designed to withstand the forces of daily chewing. While they are strong and durable, dental crowns still require proper care, especially in the summer months when lifestyle changes and seasonal habits can impact your oral health.
As a trusted family dentist, we often remind patients that protecting their crowns is just as important as protecting their natural teeth. Without the proper precautions, even the most durable crowns can become loose, chipped, or stained.
Common Summer Hazards for Dental Crowns
The summer season presents several unique challenges for dental crowns:
- Cold and Sugary Treats: Ice cream, popsicles, and sugary drinks can increase the risk of tooth sensitivity and decay around the crown margins. Avoid biting into hard frozen treats and try to rinse your mouth with water afterward.
- Dehydration: Dehydration leads to dry mouth, which reduces saliva production. Saliva plays a critical role in neutralizing acids and protecting dental work. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
- Sports and Outdoor Activities: Summer sports like biking, swimming, and volleyball can increase the risk of oral injuries. If you’re participating in contact sports or active games, wear a custom mouthguard to protect your dental crowns.
- Travel and Skipped Routines: Summer travel often means breaking routines, which can lead to missed brushing or flossing. Consistency is key; be sure to pack your oral hygiene essentials when you travel and stick to your routine, no matter where you are.
Tips for Keeping Your Crowns Safe All Summer
Here are some practical ways to ensure your dental crowns stay protected during the summer:
- Avoid Chewing Hard Foods: Stay away from chewing on ice, hard candies, or even non-food items like pens or fingernails. These can crack or damage your dental crowns.
- Use a Night Guard If You Grind: Many people grind their teeth at night without realizing it. If you have a history of grinding (bruxism), wearing a night guard is a great way to prevent damage to your crowns while you sleep.
- Keep Up with Oral Hygiene: Brushing twice a day and flossing daily is crucial. Pay special attention to the area where the crown meets the gumline to prevent plaque buildup and decay.
- Schedule a Summer Check-Up: If you haven’t already, book an appointment with your family dentist before the season gets too busy. Regular check-ups allow us to monitor your crowns and ensure everything is in good shape.
- Be Mindful of Temperature Extremes: Sudden changes in temperature, like biting into something cold after a hot beverage, can stress both natural teeth and crowns. Try to avoid extreme temperature swings when eating or drinking.
How a Dentist Near Me Can Help
If you’re noticing any issues with your dental crowns, such as discomfort, looseness, or sensitivity, it’s time to schedule a visit. As a reliable dentist near me, Jackson Family Dentistry offers prompt evaluations and expert care to address any crown-related concerns before they become bigger problems.
We also offer custom-fit mouthguards for patients who enjoy summer sports or are prone to grinding their teeth. Our team can assess your bite, check the condition of your crowns, and provide guidance on keeping your smile healthy all year long.
Why Choose Jackson Family Dentistry?
As a trusted family dentist serving Downers Grove and the surrounding communities, we take pride in offering personalized care for patients of all ages. Dr. Eric Jackson and our friendly team provide a full range of dental services — including crown placement and maintenance — to keep your teeth strong, beautiful, and protected.
Whether you’re concerned about an existing crown or just want a summer check-up, we’re here to help. If you’ve been searching online for a dentist near me who understands the importance of long-term dental health, look no further than Jackson Family Dentistry.
Enjoy Summer with Confidence
Summer should be a time to relax and enjoy life, not worry about dental issues. By following a few simple habits and visiting your family dentist for regular care, you can keep your dental crowns in great shape all season long. Contact Jackson Family Dentistry today to schedule your next visit and keep your smile strong, healthy, and summer-ready.
