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A dental crown is a type of dental restoration that covers the tooth’s entire visible part. It is typically used to protect and strengthen a tooth after root canal treatment, to cover a poorly shaped tooth, or to cover teeth with large fillings.
A dental crown is an artificial tooth that looks natural and is used to replace teeth that have been cracked, broken, or decayed. While these crowns are durable, they do wear down over time. In this article, we cover the lifespan of dental crowns and tips on how to extend that lifespan.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns are made from materials such as porcelain, resin, stainless steel, and gold. The material used depends on personal preference, as well as dental needs and requirements. For example, how much of the natural tooth remains and where the tooth is located play a factor in the material used.
Dental crowns are made to last for many years, but the exact lifespan of a crown depends on several factors. The type of material the crown is made of, the patient’s oral hygiene habits, and the location of the tooth will all determine the lifespan.
On average, dental crowns last between five and 15 years. However, some crowns may need to be replaced after just a few years, while others can last for much longer. It’s vital to follow the dentist’s instructions for caring for your crown and to keep your regular dental checkups to ensure the crown stays in good condition.
Knowing When to Replace Your Dental Crown
Each patient and each crown are unique. However, there are some conditions to look for before replacing or repairing your dental crown. For example:
- If you are experiencing pain while chewing or biting on food
- If you have any sensitivity when chewing on hard foods or ice cubes
- If there is any swelling in the gums around the teeth
Porcelain crowns are known for their durability, but they are not indestructible. If your crown ensures a chip or a crack, then replacement is necessary. The crown itself will not decay, but the remaining tooth underneath can develop cavities and lead to a root canal.
Improper oral hygiene, an imbalanced diet, or a crown that does not fit correctly often also results in a shorter lifespan. These are common reasons for crown failure, and depending on the damage that occurred, replacement may be necessary.
Extending the Life of Your Dental Crown
It is important to take care of your dental crowns and make sure that they are in top shape. There are a few things that you can do to make sure that your crowns stay in shape for as long as possible.
- Practice good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day. To help protect the crown from decay, it’s important to pay attention to the gum line and area around the crown.
- Avoid foods, drinks (like coffee and tea), and bad habits (like smoking) that stain the crowns. It’s also advised to avoid acidic foods that wear down the enamel over time.
- Do not chew on hard candy, ice, or bite your fingernails. This will wear down the enamel on your crowns and make them lose shape.
- Avoid grinding and clenching your teeth, as these often cause chips and cracks. If these are known habits, it’s best to talk to your dentist about a custom-made night guard to protect your crown and natural teeth.
- Always keep routine dental visits for cleanings and checkups. This allows your dentist to evaluate and examine your crown for signs of damage or decay.
A & R Advanced Dental Group provides pediatric dentistry services for children from infancy through adolescence in 2 convenient New York Locations.
