How to Maintain Your Dental Work: Fillings, Crowns, and Bridges

Getting dental work done — whether it’s a filling, crown, or bridge — is an investment in your health and confidence. But like natural teeth, these restorations need care to last. The right habits can help you avoid damage, extend their lifespan, and keep your whole smile healthy. The good news? Maintaining dental work doesn’t require anything extreme, just consistency and a few smart choices.

Table of Contents

1. Why Caring for Dental Work Matters

2. Daily Habits That Protect Fillings, Crowns, and Bridges

3. Foods and Habits That Can Damage Restorations

4. Professional Care and Check-Ups

5. How Long Dental Work Usually Lasts

6. FAQs

7. Conclusion

1. Why Caring for Dental Work Matters

Fillings, crowns, and bridges are built to be strong, but they’re not indestructible. Without proper care, bacteria can sneak under restorations, leading to decay or even the need for replacement. Good oral hygiene and routine dental visits ensure your dental work stays functional and your surrounding teeth and gums stay healthy.

2. Daily Habits That Protect Fillings, Crowns, and Bridges

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to reduce plaque build-up.

• Floss daily (or use floss threaders/water flossers for bridges) to clean hard-to-reach areas.

• Rinse with fluoride mouthwash for extra protection against cavities.

• Stay hydrated to prevent dry mouth, which increases cavity risk around fillings.

3. Foods and Habits That Can Damage Restorations

Some everyday habits can wear down or even break dental work:

• Chewing ice, hard lollies, or pen caps.

• Using your teeth to open bottles or packaging.

• Sticky foods like toffees and caramels, which can loosen crowns or pull on bridges.

• Excessive grinding or clenching (consider a nightguard if this is an issue).

4. Professional Care and Check-Ups

Regular dental visits are essential for monitoring your restorations. Dentists can:

• Check for cracks or wear in fillings and crowns.

• Ensure bridges are stable and the supporting teeth are healthy.

• Provide professional cleans to remove plaque and tartar you can’t reach at home.

5. How Long Dental Work Usually Lasts

• Fillings – 5 to 15 years depending on material and care.

• Crowns – 10 to 20 years with proper maintenance.

• Bridges – Often 10+ years, but they depend heavily on gum and supporting tooth health.

Taking care of them properly can help you get the most out of your investment.

6. FAQs

Can fillings get cavities?
Yes — decay can form around or underneath fillings if plaque isn’t removed properly.

Do crowns need special cleaning?
They should be brushed and flossed just like natural teeth. Pay special attention to the gum line.

How do I clean under a dental bridge?
Use floss threaders, interdental brushes, or a water flosser to clean beneath the bridge.

Conclusion

Fillings, crowns, and bridges are built to restore your smile and make everyday life easier, but they still rely on you for long-term success. With the right daily care, smart food choices, and regular dental check-ups, you can keep your restorations — and your smile — strong for years to come.