Dentistry focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating conditions of the teeth, gums, and oral structures, supporting oral health and overall well-being.
Oral Hygiene Tips
Maintaining a dental crystal is not a passive activity; it requires a proactive commitment to oral hygiene. While the crystal adds aesthetic value, it also introduces a new topographical feature on the tooth surface that can disrupt the natural flow of saliva and the mechanical cleansing of food. Without proper care, the area surrounding the gem can become a harbor for bacterial biofilm, leading to inflammation and demineralization. At Liv Hospital, we educate our patients on specific hygiene techniques tailored to crystal dental enhancements. These tips ensure that the gem's sparkle is matched by the health of the underlying smile, preventing the “white halo” of decay that can mar the aesthetic result.
Targeted Brushing Techniques
Standard brushing motions may skip over the microscopic crevices created by the crystal.
The Modified Circular Motion
When brushing the tooth with the crystal, modify the technique.
- Micro-Circles: Instead of long sweeping strokes, use small, gentle circular motions directly over and around the crystal. This helps the bristles penetrate the junction between the crystal and the tooth surface.
- Angulation: Angle the toothbrush bristles at 45 degrees towards the crystal from all sides (top, bottom, left, right) to ensure the perimeter is swept clean of plaque.
Toothbrush Selection
- Soft Bristles: Always use a soft or extra-soft toothbrush. Stiff bristles are abrasive and can scratch the surface of lead-free glass crystals, causing them to lose their shine over time. They can also traumatize the gum tissue if the crystal is near the gingival margin.
Electric Toothbrushes: Sonic or oscillating electric toothbrushes are highly effective and safe for dental crystals. The fluid dynamics created by these brushes help flush bacteria away from the base of the gem.
Chemical Plaque Control
Mechanical cleaning should be supplemented with chemical agents to manage the bacterial load.
Fluoride Therapy
The enamel immediately surrounding the bonding resin is slightly more susceptible to acid attack due to plaque retention.
- Fluoride Rinse: Using a fluoride-containing mouthwash once a day helps remineralize the enamel “halo” around the crystal, preventing white spot lesions.
- High-Fluoride Toothpaste: Patients with high caries risk may benefit from prescription toothpaste to strengthen enamel.
Antimicrobial Rinses
Alcohol-Free: Use alcohol-free mouthwashes to avoid weakening the resin bond over time. Rinses with essential oils or Cetylpyridinium Chloride (CPC) reduce plaque formation without damaging the adhesive.
Dietary Considerations for Maintenance
Diet plays a role in both the retention of the crystal and the health of the surrounding tooth.
Acid Management
Frequent consumption of acidic beverages (soda, energy drinks, lemon water) can cause generalized enamel erosion.
- Bond Weakening: Acid can erode the enamel around the adhesive interface, potentially weakening the bond and leading to premature detachment.
- Rinsing: Rinse with water immediately after consuming acidic foods to neutralize the pH.
Stain Prevention
The composite resin used to bond the crystal is slightly porous.
- Chromogenic Foods: Heavy consumption of coffee, tea, red wine, curry, or soy sauce can stain the resin, creating a yellow or brown outline around the crystal.
- Straw Usage: Drinking staining beverages through a straw can minimize contact with the anterior teeth.
- Professional Polishing: If staining occurs, a dental hygienist can often polish the resin during a regular cleaning to restore the crystal clean dental appearance.
Stain Prevention
The composite resin used to bond the crystal is slightly porous.
- Chromogenic Foods: Heavy consumption of coffee, tea, red wine, curry, or soy sauce can stain the resin, creating a yellow or brown outline around the crystal.
- Straw Usage: Drinking staining beverages through a straw can minimize contact with the anterior teeth.
- Professional Polishing: If staining occurs, a dental hygienist can often polish the resin during a regular cleaning to restore the crystal clean dental appearance.
Whitening Considerations
If a patient desires whiter teeth, the timing is essential.
- Whitening First: It is recommended to perform teeth whitening treatments before placing the crystal. The crystal and the bonding resin will not change color. If whitening is done afterward, the area under the crystal will retain its original darker shade, creating a spot if the crystal is ever removed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the crystal lose its shine?
Over time, surface scratches from abrasive food or toothpaste can dull a glass crystal, but high-quality crystals or real diamonds/gold maintain their luster for a long time.
Can I use a whitening strip with a tooth gem?
Yes, you can use whitening strips, but they will mold over the crystal; remember that the tooth surface directly underneath the gem will not receive the whitening agent.
What happens if I get a cavity under the gem?
It is extremely rare to get a cavity under the gem because it is sealed with resin, but you can get a cavity around it if you don’t brush properly; if this happens, the gem must be removed to treat the decay.
How do I clean the area if food gets stuck?
Food rarely gets stuck if bonding is done correctly with smooth edges; if it does, a soft toothbrush or a water flosser is the best way to dislodge the debris gently.
Should I use charcoal toothpaste?
No, avoid charcoal or gritty whitening toothpastes as they are too abrasive and can scratch the surface of the crystal and the resin, making it look dull and dirty.
