How can we help you?
Welcome to Wellesley Hills Dental, where we believe in empowering our patients through knowledge and compassionate care. Every day, I encounter wonderful patients with thoughtful questions about their dental health.
This FAQ page is designed to provide clear, informative answers to some of the most common queries we receive. While these responses offer helpful insights, they're not a substitute for personalized dental care. Every smile is unique, and I encourage you to schedule a consultation to discuss your specific dental needs and concerns or call my team at (781) 237-6511 with questions.
Dental Crowns and Bridges
I'm often asked about dietary restrictions after receiving a dental crown. While modern crowns are incredibly durable, being mindful of what you eat can help ensure their longevity and your overall oral health.
Protect Your Smile Investment
Certain foods should be approached with care. Sticky or very hard foods can pose challenges for dental crowns. Avoid chewing ice, biting into hard candies, or chomping down on popcorn kernels. Sticky foods like caramel or taffy can potentially pull at the crown or compromise its seal. If you're a fan of nuts or hard pretzels, try to chew carefully and avoid biting directly with the crowned tooth.
It's not about complete deprivation – it's about smart eating. Cut hard fruits and vegetables into smaller pieces. If you enjoy chewy breads or meat, cut them into manageable bites. Those with metal-free porcelain or ceramic crowns should be particularly careful, as these materials, while beautiful, can be slightly more prone to chipping.
Good oral hygiene remains your best defense. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups will help ensure your crown – and the tooth beneath it – remains healthy for years to come.
Dental bridges in Wellesley, MA, typically last between 10 and 15 years with proper care, sometimes longer. How long they last depends on the materials used, where the dental bridge is located in your mouth, and how well you maintain it.
What Affects How Long a Bridge Lasts
- Oral Hygiene — Plaque and bacteria build up around the base of a bridge as they do around natural teeth. Brushing twice daily and flossing under the bridge with a floss threader or water flosser helps prevent decay in teeth that support it.
- Bite and Location — Bridges at the back of the mouth handle more chewing pressure than those at the front, which can shorten their lifespan over time.
- Grinding and Clenching — Teeth grinding puts extra stress on restorations, including bridges. Your dentist may recommend a night guard to help protect it.
- Regular Checkups — Your dentist at Wellesley Hill Dental monitors your bridge's condition at each visit. That way, they can identify early signs of wear or decay before they become larger problems
When a Bridge May Need Replacing
Common signs that a bridge needs attention include sensitivity around the supporting teeth, a loose or shifting feel, visible cracks, or discomfort when chewing. If you notice any of these, contact our office promptly.
If you have other questions about bridges or would like to book an evaluation, please call at (781) 237-6511 Wellesley Hill Dental in Wellesley, MA.