Dental restorations—such as crowns, bridges, fillings, veneers, and implants—are essential for restoring your smile, function, and confidence. While they’re designed to be durable and long-lasting, their lifespan depends heavily on how well they’re cared for. At Alpine Vista Dental, our goal is to help you make the most of your dental work by providing you with the tools, knowledge, and support needed to maintain your restorations for years to come.

If you’re looking to protect your investment and keep your smile healthy, here’s what you should know about extending the life of your dental restorations.

1. Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is the foundation of dental health, and it’s especially important when you have restorations. Plaque and bacteria can still build up around crowns, bridges, or fillings and lead to gum disease or decay in the surrounding tooth structure.

To prevent complications:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.

• Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel and protect natural teeth.

• Floss daily, especially around crowns and bridges, to remove food particles and plaque.

• Consider using a water flosser for hard-to-reach areas.

Proper hygiene helps ensure your restorations last longer and your overall dental health remains strong.

2. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Routine dental checkups and cleanings are essential for maintaining both your natural teeth and your restorations. At Alpine Vista Dental, we recommend seeing us every six months for a professional cleaning and exam.

During your visits, the best dentist in Highlands Ranch, CO, will:

• Check the condition of your restorations.

• Identify early signs of wear, cracking, or decay.

• Ensure that restorations still fit properly and function as intended.

• Perform preventative care that helps extend the life of your dental work.

Catching small problems early can help avoid more serious issues down the road.

3. Avoid Using Your Teeth as Tools

One of the most common ways people damage their dental restorations is by using their teeth to open packages, bite fingernails, or chew on hard objects like pens or ice. These habits can chip or fracture restorations—and even natural teeth.

Instead, protect your restorations by:

• Using scissors or proper tools to open items.

• Avoiding chewing on non-food objects.

• Being cautious with hard or sticky foods, especially if you have crowns or veneers.

Treat your dental restorations with care, just as you would a valuable appliance or device.

4. Watch What You Eat

While most dental restorations are built to withstand daily use, certain foods can still pose a risk. Sticky candies, hard nuts, popcorn kernels, and ice can all contribute to premature damage.

To protect your restorations:

• Avoid overly hard or sticky foods that could dislodge or crack your dental work.

• Cut tough foods into smaller pieces to reduce chewing stress.

• Drink plenty of water to help rinse away food particles and reduce plaque buildup.

Making mindful dietary choices can go a long way toward keeping your restorations intact.

5. Wear a Night Guard If You Grind Your Teeth

Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching) is a common issue that can severely damage both natural teeth and dental restorations. Many people grind their teeth at night without even realizing it.

If you suspect you grind your teeth, your dentist may recommend a custom night guard to protect your restorations while you sleep. This simple appliance acts as a cushion between your teeth, reducing the pressure and wear caused by grinding.

6. Address Issues Early

If you notice anything unusual—such as a loose crown, sensitivity around a filling, or a chipped veneer—don’t wait to get it checked. The sooner you visit your dentist, the easier and more affordable the solution is likely to be.

At Alpine Vista Dental, we encourage patients to call us as soon as they notice a change. Ignoring small problems can lead to larger issues like infections, additional decay, or even the need for replacement.

7. Choose a Trusted Dental Professional

The quality of your restorations starts with the skill of your dentist. At Alpine Vista Dental, we use high-quality materials and precise techniques to ensure your restorations are both beautiful and durable. When placed correctly and maintained properly, dental restorations can last many years—sometimes even decades.

When you choose the best dentist in Highlands Ranch, CO, you’re choosing a team that’s committed to your long-term dental health and satisfaction.

Final Thoughts

Your dental restorations are an investment in your oral health, comfort, and confidence. By practicing good hygiene, visiting your dentist regularly, avoiding damaging habits, and staying proactive, you can help ensure your restorations last as long as possible.

At Alpine Vista Dental, we’re here to support your smile every step of the way. Whether you need a routine cleaning or want to learn more about protecting your restorations, we’re just a call away. Let us help you keep your smile strong, functional, and beautiful for years to come.