Dental crowns are teeth-shaped caps that are put over teeth to cover them and restore their shape, size, strength, and appearance. If your dentist recommends a dental crown installation for a damaged tooth, you might want to know about how long dental crowns last.
The lifespan of dental crowns is hugely impacted by the wear and tear they endure, oral hygiene practices and eating habits. Scott Young, DDS urges patients with dental crowns to avoid grinding or clenching teeth, biting nails, opening packages with the teeth and chewing ice.
The Lifespan of Dental Crowns
The average lifetime of well-maintained dental crowns is about 15 years. However, it is possible for them to last for 25-30 years with effective care.
Your mouth is complex, and numerous variables can affect crown longevity. If you tend to clench or grind the teeth, your restorative work will have a shorter lifespan. Eating and oral hygiene habits may also put a dental crown through some amount of wear. Upholding proper oral hygiene can greatly extend the life of the crown as well as wearing a nightguard each time you sleep.
The dental crown’s placement in your oral cavity can also play a role in determining its lifespan. Some cracks may last a lifetime while others might crack and require replacement.
Although a dental crown is an excellent way to recover a broken tooth, there must be adequate tooth structure for attaching the crown. Once it’s verified that you have enough tooth structure, your dentist will ensure the crown fits firmly without any open margins. If the crown doesn’t fit properly, it can loosen up and fall, or trap food and floss. It is possible to re-cement a loose crown, but if it falls out completely, a replacement will be necessary.
How Can You Make Dental Crowns Last Longer?
You can prolong the lifespan of your dental crown through the following measures:
- Do Not Clench Or Grind Your Teeth: That sort of trauma can lead to crown chipping or cracking. If you are prone to clenching or grinding, you should wear a custom night guard before you sleep. That will guard your crown and real teeth
- Practice Proper Dental Hygiene Habits: These include brushing two times daily and flossing once every day. As you brush your teeth, pay close attention to the region near the dental crown, particularly the gum line. Doing so will help to prevent decay
- Avoid Fingernail Biting, and Chewing on Ice or Other Hard Items: Biting your nails or chewing on hard objects can damage both the crown and your natural teeth
- Go for Regular Dental Cleanings and Checkups: During those dental appointments, your dentist will assess your dental crown for symptoms of decay and trauma. He or she will also check for the presence of gaps between the tooth and the prosthetic
How Do You Know When Your Dental Crown Requires Replacing?
While most dental crowns are built to last a lifetime, they aren’t indestructible. Crowns that show signs of chipping or cracking require replacing. Leaving a damaged crown in your mouth increases the likelihood of decay underneath the prosthetic. Consequently, advanced decay can create the need for a root canal.
Crowns are a popular dental treatment because they can repair numerous dental problems. Consult a dentist to establish the crown type that fits you best, and how you can extend its lifespan.