A dental crown is a common restorative procedure. A crown can often save a tooth with extensive damage to the enamel, such as a crack, chip, or large cavity. These situations are often too severe for a regular dental filling.
If you have a tooth that needs a crown, you may be wondering how long it will last among other things. Here’s what you can expect when it comes to a crown restoration.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cover placed over an existing tooth. Dental crowns are most often made of porcelain that resembles natural tooth enamel. It can be made to match the existing shape and color of your teeth. When decay or damage to a tooth eliminates too much of the enamel, a filling may not be possible. But a crown can be placed over the remaining tooth material, leaving the natural root of the tooth intact.
Metal crowns are sometimes placed over back molars because they are less visible and because they need to be able to withstand greater chewing force. Some crowns are metal with porcelain fused to the outside to combine the strength of metal and the natural appearance of porcelain in a single crown.
How Long Does a Crown Last?
A dental crown can last an average of 15 years. With excellent care and maintenance it may last for 20 or more years. As long as the tooth is healthy underneath, a crown can always be replaced if it wears out.
What Factors Affect the Lifespan of a Dental Crown?
There are many factors that can affect how long your dental crown lasts:
- Material. The type of material your crown is made of will affect how long it lasts. A metal crown may last longer without wearing down than a porcelain crown.
- Dental hygiene. It is important to take good care of your teeth and mouth all the time, but especially when you have a crown. This keeps the teeth around it, as well as the root of the tooth underneath the crown, healthy for support.
- Diet. The type of foods you eat will affect the lifespan of your crown. If you eat a lot of hard or chewy foods your crown may wear down more quickly.
- Habits. If you have any nervous habits, such as biting your nails or chewing on pens and pencils, it can wear down or damage your crown.
- Orthodontic health. Orthodontic issues such as a misaligned bite or crowded teeth could lead to premature wear.
- Proper placement. It is important that your dentist has the necessary skill and experience to place your crown properly, otherwise it may not last as long as it should.
How To Help Your Crown Last Longer
There are a few things you can do to help your crown last longer than average:
- Brush and floss your teeth. The general recommendation is to brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day. If you have a crown, it is still important to floss around that tooth to prevent plaque from developing between the crown and your gums. A crown will last longer if the tooth and root underneath it remain healthy.
- Go to the dentist regularly. The recommended schedule for routine dental appointments is every 6 months. Your teeth need to be professionally cleaned to remove plaque, and that includes your dental crown. Your dentist can also examine your crown to make sure it is still securely in place and in good condition.
- Avoid chewing on non-food items. Try not to chew or bite anything other than food. Non-food items can cause your crown to wear out prematurely or even come loose.
- Consider orthodontic treatment. If your teeth are out of alignment, it would be beneficial for all of your teeth and your crown for you to seek orthodontic treatment.
Glassman Dental Care Provides Lasting Crowns
At Glassman Dental Care we provide dental crowns made of the highest quality materials that are designed to last. With precise, accurate placement we ensure that your crown is securely bonded to the tooth for the best possible performance.