Can You Eat Chips with Permanent Crowns?
Can You Eat Chips with Permanent Crowns?
You’ve just received a permanent crown at ESP Dental in Phoenix, AZ, and it looks and feels great. But what about your favorite snacks? Can you safely enjoy crunchy chips, or are they a risk to your dental work? Here’s what you need to know to protect your crown and keep your smile strong.
Understanding Permanent Crowns
Permanent crowns are crafted from durable materials like porcelain, ceramic, or metal alloys, designed to restore and protect a damaged tooth. While these materials are built to withstand normal biting and chewing forces, they are not indestructible. Excessive pressure from hard or crunchy foods can still cause damage.
Are Chips Safe to Eat with a Permanent Crown?
While you can eat chips with a permanent crown, it’s best to do so with caution. Crunchy snacks like tortilla chips, kettle chips, and pretzels can potentially crack or chip the crown if you bite down too hard. Additionally, small chip fragments can get stuck around the edges of the crown, increasing the risk of decay or infection.
Tips for Eating Chips Safely with a Crown
Choose Softer Chips: Opt for less rigid chips like baked or lightly salted varieties.
Chew Slowly and Carefully: Avoid biting down directly on the crowned tooth.
Break Chips into Smaller Pieces: Reducing the size makes them easier to chew and less likely to cause damage.
Rinse After Eating: Clear out any food particles that may have gotten stuck around the crown.
Foods to Avoid After Getting a Permanent Crown
Hard candies
Ice cubes
Sticky caramel
Popcorn kernels
Nuts
Protecting Your Permanent Crown
Avoid Biting Hard Objects: Refrain from using your crowned tooth to open packages or bite into hard objects.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss daily to prevent plaque buildup around the crown.
Schedule Regular Checkups: Visit ESP Dental every six months to ensure your crown remains in excellent condition.
What to Do If Your Crown Gets Damaged
If you feel any discomfort, notice cracks, or the crown becomes loose, contact ESP Dental in Phoenix, AZ, immediately. Our experienced team can assess the damage and provide the necessary repairs or adjustments to keep your crown intact.
