Is it safe to see the dentist during COVID-19? Yes!

Is It Safe to Visit the Dentist During COVID-19? Yes — visiting the dentist during COVID-19 is safe when proper infection control protocols are followed. Licensed dental clinics across Canada, including those in Calgary NW, have implemented rigorous safety measures to protect both patients and staff. Neglecting your oral health during the pandemic can lead to more serious dental issues that are harder to treat later. Why Oral Health Matters More Than Ever During a Pandemic A healthy mouth contributes directly to overall health. Research consistently shows that poor oral hygiene can increase susceptibility to infections, including respiratory illnesses. Conditions like untreated gum disease, tooth decay, and dental infections can compromise your immune response — making it more important, not less, to keep up with your regular dental care during uncertain times. Routine professional teeth cleaning and check-ups help identify problems early, reducing the need for more complex and urgent treatment down the road. If you're experiencing sudden tooth pain or swelling, don't delay — emergency dental care is available and is carried out under the same strict safety protocols. What Dental Offices Are Doing to Keep You Safe According to public health authorities, there have been no confirmed cases of COVID-19 transmission linked to dental office visits when proper protocols are followed. Licensed dental teams have adapted their practices to meet and exceed infection control standards. Here is what you can expect at a safety-compliant dental clinic: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Dentists, hygienists, and assistants wear masks, face shields, gowns, and gloves during all procedures. Enhanced sterilisation: All instruments are sterilised between patients, and high-touch surfaces are disinfected regularly throughout the day. HEPA air filtration and aerosol management: High-efficiency air filtration systems and aerosol reduction strategies minimise airborne risk during treatment. Pre-screening protocols: Patients are screened for symptoms before appointments, either by phone or upon arrival. Physical distancing in waiting areas: Seating arrangements and appointment scheduling have been adjusted to reduce crowding. Contactless check-in where possible: Digital forms and minimal paperwork reduce unnecessary contact. Hand hygiene stations: Sanitiser is available at entry points and throughout the clinic. What You Can Do Before Your Dental Appointment Patients also play an important role in keeping dental visits safe for everyone. Here are a few simple steps you can take: Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have symptoms such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, call your dental clinic to reschedule. Arrive on time — not early. This helps manage the number of people in waiting areas at any one time. Wear a mask to your appointment and remove it only when directed by your dental team. Inform the clinic of any recent travel or exposure to confirmed COVID-19 cases. Brush and floss before your visit to support good hygiene practices for your dental team. Don't Let COVID-19 Anxiety Put Your Oral Health on Hold It's understandable to feel hesitant about visiting any healthcare setting during a pandemic. However, postponing dental care often leads to worsening conditions that may require…

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When Does Your Tooth Need a Dental Crown?

When Does Your Tooth Need a Dental Crown? A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Your dentist may recommend a crown when a tooth is too damaged for a filling alone to be effective. Understanding the signs that a crown may be needed can help you make informed decisions about your dental care. What Is a Dental Crown? A dental crown fits snugly over your natural tooth, covering it entirely above the gum line. It functions just like a natural tooth — allowing you to bite, chew, and speak comfortably — while protecting the damaged tooth underneath. Crowns can also improve the cosmetic appearance of a tooth that is discoloured or misshapen. Common Reasons You May Need a Dental Crown There are several situations in which a licensed dentist may recommend a dental crown. The most common include: Severe tooth decay: When a cavity is too large to be repaired with a composite white filling, a crown provides the structural support the tooth needs. Cracked or fractured tooth: A crown holds the pieces of a cracked tooth together, preventing further damage and reducing pain when chewing. Worn-down tooth: Teeth that have been worn down from grinding (bruxism) or acid erosion may need a crown to restore their height and function. Weakened tooth: A tooth that has been weakened by decay or a large existing filling may require a crown to prevent it from breaking. After root canal treatment: Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment become more brittle over time. A crown is typically placed over the treated tooth to protect it from fracture. Discoloured or misshapen tooth: When cosmetic concerns cannot be adequately addressed with whitening or veneers, a crown can restore a natural, uniform appearance. As part of a dental bridge: Crowns are placed on the teeth on either side of a gap to anchor a dental bridge, which fills the space left by one or more missing teeth. What Are Dental Crowns Made Of? Dental crowns can be made from several different materials, and the right choice depends on where the tooth is located in your mouth, your bite, and your aesthetic preferences. Common materials include: All-ceramic or all-porcelain: These crowns offer the most natural-looking result and are an excellent choice for front teeth. They are tooth-coloured and blend seamlessly with surrounding teeth. Porcelain fused to metal (PFM): These crowns combine the strength of a metal substructure with a porcelain outer layer for a more natural appearance than full metal crowns. Metal alloys: Gold and other metal alloy crowns are extremely durable and are often recommended for back teeth where chewing forces are greatest, though they are less aesthetically pleasing. Zirconia: A newer ceramic material that is both highly durable and tooth-coloured, making it a popular option for both front and back teeth. At Expressions Dental in Calgary NW, our licensed dental team will help you choose the most appropriate crown material…

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Different Types of Dental Crowns

What Are the Different Types of Dental Crowns? A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is permanently fixed over a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. There are several types of dental crowns available — including ceramic, porcelain-fused-to-metal, and gold alloy — each suited to different clinical needs and aesthetic goals. Choosing the right crown depends on the location of the tooth, your bite, your budget, and your personal preferences. What Is a Dental Crown and How Does It Work? A dental crown fully encases a tooth above the gum line, acting as a protective shell. The process typically involves two visits: the first to prepare the tooth by removing a small amount of structure and taking an impression, and the second to fit and cement the permanent crown. A temporary crown is placed between visits to protect the prepared tooth while the permanent restoration is fabricated in a dental laboratory. At Expressions Dental in Calgary NW, our licensed dental team will assess your individual needs and recommend the most appropriate crown material for your situation. Why Might You Need a Dental Crown? Dental crowns are one of the most versatile restorations in dentistry. Your dentist may recommend a crown for any of the following reasons: To protect a weakened or frail tooth from fracturing To hold together the parts of a cracked tooth To restore a broken, severely decayed, or injured tooth To cover a tooth following a large filling or root canal treatment To serve as an anchor for a dental bridge To correct a severely discoloured or misshapen tooth To complete a dental implant restoration Types of Dental Crowns: A Detailed Comparison Each crown material has distinct advantages. Below is a breakdown of the most common types used in modern dentistry. 1. Ceramic (All-Porcelain) Crowns Best for: Front teeth and patients with metal allergies. Ceramic crowns are made entirely from porcelain and are widely regarded as the most aesthetically pleasing option. They mimic the light-reflecting properties of natural tooth enamel and can be colour-matched precisely to the surrounding teeth. Because they contain no metal, they are an excellent choice for patients with metal sensitivities. However, they are generally less durable under heavy biting forces than metal-containing alternatives, so they are most commonly recommended for front teeth. 2. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns Best for: Front or back teeth where both strength and aesthetics are needed. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns offer a balance of durability and natural appearance. A metal substructure provides structural strength, while a porcelain outer layer gives the crown a tooth-like colour. Over time, a thin dark line may become visible at the gum line as gums naturally recede — a minor aesthetic consideration your dentist will discuss with you. PFM crowns remain a reliable and widely used option in Calgary and across Canada. 3. Gold Alloy Crowns Best for: Back teeth (molars) where strength and longevity are priorities. Gold alloy crowns are composed of gold, copper, and other metals. They are…

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Treatment for Chipped or Broken Teeth

Treatment Options for Chipped or Broken Teeth in Calgary NW A chipped or broken tooth is one of the most common dental emergencies, and prompt treatment is important to prevent further damage or infection. Depending on the severity of the break, your dentist can restore your tooth using options such as dental bonding, porcelain veneers, or a dental crown. If you've damaged a tooth in Calgary NW, emergency dental care is available at Expressions Dental to assess and treat your tooth as quickly as possible. Common Causes of Chipped or Broken Teeth Teeth can chip or break for a variety of reasons, even when you take precautions. Understanding the common causes can help you act quickly when an incident occurs: Sports injuries or recreational accidents — contact sports and outdoor activities carry a risk of dental trauma Biting down on hard foods — hard candies, ice, or unexpectedly hard objects in food Falls or facial impact — any blow to the mouth or jaw Tooth decay weakening the tooth structure — a cavity-compromised tooth is more susceptible to cracking Teeth grinding (bruxism) — chronic grinding can gradually fracture teeth over time Whatever the cause, it is important not to ignore a chipped or broken tooth. Even a small chip can expose the inner layers of the tooth to bacteria, leading to sensitivity, decay, or infection. Dental Treatments for Chipped or Broken Teeth 1. Dental Bonding or Composite Filling For minor chips, dental bonding with a tooth-coloured composite resin is often the most straightforward and cost-effective solution. Your dentist applies the resin directly to the chipped area, shapes it to match your natural tooth, and hardens it with a curing light. The result blends seamlessly with the surrounding enamel. It is worth noting that if the chip is in a high-stress area — such as a back molar — bonding may serve as a temporary measure. Your dentist may recommend a more durable restoration such as an inlay, onlay, or crown to provide long-term protection. Learn more about dental inlays and onlays as an intermediate option between a filling and a crown. 2. Porcelain Dental Veneers If you have chipped or broken a front tooth, a porcelain dental veneer may be an excellent option. Veneers are wafer-thin, custom-crafted shells — typically made from porcelain or composite resin — that are bonded to the front surface of the tooth to conceal damage and restore a natural appearance. Custom-designed to match the shape, size, and shade of your surrounding teeth Highly durable and stain-resistant when made from porcelain Ideal for front teeth where aesthetics are a primary concern Minimally invasive compared to a full crown Veneers are a popular choice at our Calgary NW clinic for patients looking to restore both function and a confident smile after dental trauma to visible teeth. 3. Dental Crowns When a large portion of a tooth has broken off, the tooth has significant decay, or the structural integrity of the tooth is compromised, your dentist will likely…

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Replace Your Missing Tooth With Dental Crowns And Bridges

Dental Crowns and Bridges: A Reliable Solution for Missing Teeth Dental crowns and bridges are proven restorative treatments that replace missing or severely damaged teeth, restoring your ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence. A crown caps a single damaged tooth, while a bridge fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth. At Expressions Dental in Calgary NW, our licensed dental team helps you choose the right option for your needs and budget. Leaving a missing tooth untreated can affect far more than your appearance. Over time, surrounding teeth can shift, your bite can change, and bone loss may occur in the jaw. Addressing the gap early with a crown or bridge protects your long-term oral health. What Is a Dental Crown? A dental crown is a custom-fitted cap that is placed over a tooth that is damaged, weakened, or aesthetically compromised. It fully encases the visible portion of the tooth above the gum line, restoring its shape, strength, and function. When Is a Crown Recommended? A tooth is cracked, chipped, or broken A tooth is severely decayed and cannot be restored with a filling A tooth has undergone root canal treatment and needs protection A tooth is misshapen or significantly discoloured A crown is needed to anchor a dental bridge Crown Material Options Crowns are available in several materials, each with distinct advantages: Porcelain crowns: The most natural-looking option. Porcelain reflects light in a similar way to natural tooth enamel, making it virtually indistinguishable from surrounding teeth. Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns: Combine the natural appearance of porcelain with the added strength of a metal substructure — a popular all-around choice. Gold crowns: Exceptionally durable and long-lasting, often recommended for back teeth where chewing forces are greatest. Your dentist at Expressions Dental will assess your bite, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals to recommend the most suitable crown material for your mouth. Learn more about our dental crowns in Calgary NW. What Is a Dental Bridge? A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that literally "bridges" the gap created by one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth (called pontics) held in place by dental crowns on the natural teeth on either side of the gap — known as abutment teeth. How Does a Dental Bridge Work? The two teeth adjacent to the gap are shaped and prepared to support the crowns that anchor the bridge. A custom bridge — including the pontic and the two anchoring crowns — is fabricated to fit precisely, restoring the appearance and function of your natural teeth. Bridges are fixed in place and are not removed for cleaning like dentures. Bridge Material Options Porcelain bridges: Blend seamlessly with natural teeth for a discreet, cosmetic result. Porcelain-fused-to-metal bridges: Offer a balance of aesthetics and strength. Gold bridges: Preferred in some cases for durability, particularly in back teeth. Explore our dedicated dental bridges Calgary NW service page for more detailed information about the procedure, timeline, and what to expect. Crowns and…

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Remedies for Teeth Sensitivity

Remedies for Teeth Sensitivity Tooth sensitivity is a sharp, sudden pain or tingling sensation triggered by hot or cold foods, beverages, or even cold air. It can affect one tooth or several, and may occur occasionally or persistently. The good news is that there are effective at-home remedies and professional dental treatments that can provide real relief. What Causes Tooth Sensitivity? Sensitivity typically occurs when the protective enamel on your teeth wears down, or when gum recession exposes the underlying dentine layer. Dentine contains tiny tubules that connect directly to the tooth's nerve, making it highly reactive to temperature and pressure changes. Common contributing factors include: Brushing too aggressively with a hard-bristled toothbrush Consuming highly acidic foods and drinks that erode enamel over time Teeth grinding (bruxism), which wears down enamel Gum disease or gum recession exposing root surfaces Tooth decay, cracked teeth, or worn fillings Overuse of whitening products that temporarily irritate enamel At-Home Remedies for Sensitive Teeth For mild to moderate sensitivity, the following at-home strategies can make a meaningful difference: 1. Use a Desensitising Toothpaste Desensitising toothpastes contain compounds such as potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride that help block the dentinal tubules and calm nerve responses over time. Use a fluoridated formula — not a whitening toothpaste, which can aggravate sensitivity. For added benefit, try spreading a thin layer directly onto exposed root surfaces before bed and leaving it on overnight. 2. Switch to a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush Hard or medium-bristled brushes can accelerate enamel and gum tissue wear. A soft-bristled brush used with gentle, circular strokes helps clean effectively without causing further damage to sensitive teeth. 3. Rinse with a Fluoridated Mouthwash A daily fluoride rinse helps strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity over time. Look for alcohol-free formulas, as alcohol can sometimes irritate already-sensitive teeth and gums. 4. Avoid Highly Acidic Foods and Drinks Citrus fruits, fizzy drinks, vinegar-based foods, and wine are highly acidic and can erode enamel with repeated exposure. Rinsing your mouth with water after consuming acidic foods — and waiting 30 minutes before brushing — helps minimise enamel damage. 5. Address Teeth Grinding If you clench or grind your teeth at night, the enamel can wear down significantly over time, worsening sensitivity. A custom-fitted nightguard from your dentist can protect your teeth while you sleep. If you suspect bruxism may be contributing to your discomfort, ask your dentist about TMJ treatment options in Calgary NW. Professional Dental Treatments for Tooth Sensitivity While at-home remedies are a good starting point, it is always best to see a licensed dentist to determine the true underlying cause of your sensitivity. What feels like simple sensitivity could sometimes indicate a deeper issue, such as a cracked tooth, decay, or gum disease, that requires professional care. At your appointment, your dentist will ask about your symptoms, review your dental and medical history, and may take digital X-rays to get a clearer picture of what is happening beneath the surface. Depending on the cause, your dentist in Calgary NW…

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Prevent Teeth Grinding

What Is Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) and How Can You Stop It? Teeth grinding, clinically known as bruxism, is an involuntary habit of clenching or grinding your teeth that can occur during sleep or while awake. It can develop at any age and, if left untreated, may lead to significant tooth wear, jaw pain, and damaged restorations. The good news is that with the right diagnosis and treatment plan, bruxism is very manageable. What Causes Teeth Grinding? Bruxism rarely has a single cause. A licensed dentist will evaluate your full oral and medical history to identify what is driving the habit. Common contributing factors include: Stress and anxiety – Emotional tension is one of the most frequently identified triggers for both sleep and awake bruxism. Sleep disorders – People who snore or experience obstructive sleep apnoea are at a higher risk of grinding their teeth. Lifestyle factors – Smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, and high caffeine intake have all been linked to increased bruxism activity. Depression – Mood disorders can affect muscle tension and sleep quality, both of which influence grinding behaviour. Misaligned or damaged teeth – Structural issues in the bite can cause the jaw to seek a more comfortable resting position, resulting in grinding. Certain medications – Some stimulants and antidepressants may increase the likelihood of bruxism as a side effect. Signs You May Be Grinding Your Teeth Because bruxism often happens during sleep, many people are unaware they are doing it. Watch for these common warning signs: Waking up with a sore jaw, headache, or facial pain Teeth that appear flattened, chipped, or worn down Increased tooth sensitivity Tight or tired jaw muscles throughout the day A partner telling you that you grind your teeth at night Pain or discomfort in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) area If you are experiencing jaw joint discomfort alongside grinding, our page on TMJ Treatment in Calgary NW provides further information on how these conditions are connected and treated. Treatment Options for Bruxism Effective treatment depends on identifying the underlying cause. A licensed dentist at Expressions Dental will conduct a comprehensive examination to determine which approach, or combination of approaches, is most appropriate for you. 1. Occlusal Appliances (Night Guards and Splints) The most common first-line treatment is a custom-made occlusal appliance — also referred to as a night guard, bite guard, bite plate, or bruxism splint. These are precision-fitted, removable plastic devices that sit over your upper or lower teeth. They work by: Creating a protective barrier that prevents tooth-to-tooth contact Reducing strain on the jaw muscles and TMJ Minimising the risk of tooth fracture and enamel wear Custom appliances from your dentist fit far more accurately and comfortably than over-the-counter alternatives and are typically worn at bedtime. Store-bought guards may not provide the proper fit needed to protect your bite effectively. 2. Stress and Anxiety Management When stress or anxiety is identified as a primary driver of bruxism, behavioural strategies can make a significant difference. Options may include: Relaxation techniques such as…

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Want to Change the Shape of your Teeth?

Can You Change the Shape of Your Teeth? Yes — dentists can change the shape of your teeth using treatments such as dental crowns, dental bonding, porcelain veneers, or tooth recontouring. These procedures address a wide range of concerns, from closing gaps and correcting uneven lengths to repairing chips caused by trauma or teeth grinding. The right option depends on your individual dental needs, goals, and budget. Having healthy teeth is important, but healthy doesn't always mean you're happy with how your smile looks. Genetics, accidents, or habits like grinding can leave teeth that are crooked, oddly shaped, chipped, or gapped — and that's completely understandable. The good news is that modern cosmetic dentistry offers effective, long-lasting solutions to help you feel confident in your smile. Common Reasons People Want to Reshape Their Teeth Patients at our Calgary NW clinic seek tooth reshaping for many different reasons, including: Teeth that appear too short, too long, or uneven Gaps between the front teeth (diastema) Chips or cracks from physical trauma Worn-down teeth caused by grinding (bruxism) Irregularly shaped or pointed teeth Teeth that affect confidence when smiling or speaking If any of these sound familiar, a consultation with a licensed dentist can help you understand which treatment will give you the best result. Treatment Options for Changing the Shape of Your Teeth 1. Dental Crowns A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that fits entirely over an existing tooth, replacing its visible surface. Because the crown is custom-fabricated, your dentist can design it to be the ideal shape, size, and colour. Crowns are an excellent choice when a tooth is significantly damaged, weakened, or misshapen, as they restore both appearance and function in a single restoration. 2. Dental Bonding Dental bonding is one of the most affordable and least invasive ways to reshape teeth. A tooth-coloured composite resin is applied directly to the tooth's surface, sculpted into the desired shape, and then hardened with a curing light. Composite resin closely matches natural tooth colour and can be completed in a single appointment — making bonding ideal for minor chips, gaps, or small shape corrections. 3. Porcelain Veneers Porcelain veneers are ultra-thin, custom-made shells that bond to the front surface of your teeth. They are designed to transform the shape, colour, length, and overall appearance of your smile. Veneers are a popular choice for patients who want a dramatic, long-lasting cosmetic improvement — particularly for the front teeth that are most visible when you smile. Because porcelain mimics the light-reflecting properties of natural enamel, the results look both beautiful and natural. 4. Tooth Recontouring (Enameloplasty) Tooth recontouring — also called enameloplasty or tooth reshaping — is a conservative procedure in which a small amount of enamel is gently removed to change the shape of a tooth. It is best suited for minor corrections, such as smoothing a slightly pointed canine tooth or evening out small irregularities along the biting edge. This treatment is quick, painless, and requires no anaesthetic in most cases.…

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How to Fix Gap between Front Teeth?

How to Fix a Gap Between Front Teeth A gap between the front teeth — known clinically as a diastema — can be caused by several factors, including jaw size, missing teeth, oral habits, or gum disease. The good news is that multiple effective treatment options are available, ranging from orthodontics to cosmetic dental procedures. A licensed dentist can assess your specific situation and recommend the most appropriate solution. What Causes a Gap Between Front Teeth? Understanding the root cause of your gap is the first step toward choosing the right treatment. Here are the most common reasons gaps develop between front teeth: Jaw and Tooth Size Mismatch When teeth are too small relative to the jawbone, extra space is left between them. This is one of the most common structural causes of front tooth gaps. Conversely, teeth that are too large for the jaw lead to crowding. Missing or Undersized Teeth Sometimes certain teeth are congenitally missing or smaller than average. This occurs most often with the upper lateral incisors — the teeth on either side of the two front teeth. When these teeth are absent or undersized, noticeable spaces can develop in the upper arch. Thumb Sucking and Oral Habits Prolonged thumb sucking or dummy (pacifier) use in childhood can push the front teeth forward, gradually creating a gap. These habits are best addressed early — ideally during childhood dental visits — to prevent long-term alignment issues. Tongue Thrust Most people press their tongue against the roof of the mouth when swallowing. Some individuals develop a pattern called tongue thrust, where the tongue pushes against the front teeth during swallowing instead. Over time, this repeated pressure moves the front teeth forward and creates spaces between them. Periodontal (Gum) Disease Advanced gum disease can cause the bone and tissue supporting the teeth to weaken, allowing teeth to shift and gaps to form. If gum disease is the underlying cause, it must be treated before any cosmetic or restorative work is carried out. Learn more about our periodontal care services at Expressions Dental. Temporary Gaps in Children Children commonly have temporary spaces between their teeth as baby teeth fall out and permanent teeth emerge. In most cases, these gaps close naturally as the adult teeth settle into their final positions. If you are concerned about your child's tooth spacing, our team offers dedicated dental care for children in Calgary. Treatment Options for Gaps Between Front Teeth The right treatment for a front tooth gap depends on the cause, the size of the gap, and your overall oral health. Here is an overview of the most effective options available at a licensed dental clinic in Calgary NW: Invisalign or Orthodontic Braces Orthodontic treatment is one of the most comprehensive ways to close a gap, particularly when multiple teeth need repositioning. Invisalign in Calgary NW uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually shift teeth into the correct position — a discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional braces. Porcelain Veneers Veneers…

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Taking Care of Temporary Dental Crown

How to Take Care of Your Temporary Dental Crown A temporary dental crown protects your prepared tooth, maintains spacing, and gives you and your dentist a preview of how your permanent crown will look and feel. Most temporary crowns stay in place for one to three weeks and require specific care during this time to ensure your permanent restoration fits accurately. Following a few straightforward guidelines can help you avoid discomfort, dislodgement, and unnecessary delays in your treatment. Why Your Temporary Crown Matters Temporary crowns are made from a softer, provisional material and secured with temporary cement — which makes them more vulnerable than permanent restorations. Understanding what your temporary crown does helps explain why caring for it carefully is so important. Protection: It shields the prepared tooth from temperature sensitivity, bacteria, and physical damage while your permanent crown is being fabricated. Stability: It prevents neighbouring and opposing teeth from drifting into the space, which could affect how well your dental crown in Calgary NW fits when it is placed. Function and aesthetics preview: It allows you and your dentist to evaluate the shape, size, and bite before the final restoration is cemented. Essential Care Tips for Your Temporary Crown Watch What You Eat Your diet is one of the most important factors in keeping your temporary crown in place. Certain foods can pull the crown off or crack the provisional material. During your provisioning period, follow these food guidelines: Avoid sticky and chewy foods: Caramel, chewing gum, toffee, and gummy candies can grip the crown and pull it off the tooth. Avoid hard foods: Nuts, hard candies, crusty bread, and raw vegetables like carrots place excessive force on the provisional material. Avoid extreme temperatures: Your prepared tooth may be sensitive to very hot or very cold foods and drinks. Opt for lukewarm or room-temperature options where possible. Chew on the opposite side: Wherever possible, shift chewing to the other side of your mouth to reduce stress on the temporary crown. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene — Gently Keeping your mouth clean is essential while wearing a temporary crown, but your technique needs to be a little more careful than usual. Brush gently around the crown: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid aggressive scrubbing near the temporary restoration. Floss with care: Continue flossing daily, but instead of snapping the floss upward between the teeth (which can dislodge the crown), slide it out gently to the side. Avoid water flossers on high pressure: High-pressure water flossers directed at the temporary crown may loosen the temporary cement. Rinse regularly: A gentle warm saltwater rinse can help keep the area clean and reduce any minor gum irritation around the provisional crown. Maintaining good hygiene supports your overall oral health during this period. If you are due for a cleaning, our dental hygienist in Calgary can advise you on how to safely clean around a temporary restoration. Protect Against Grinding and Clenching If you grind or clench your teeth — a condition known as bruxism…

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