Never ignore a toothache or any other dental problem. If you are experiencing persistent tooth pain, schedule an appointment with your dentist. When experiencing tooth decay, your dentist may recommend a dental crown or cavity filling, depending on the extent of the damage.
Did your dentist recommend a dental crown to save your tooth? If so, it is best to follow through with the treatment to protect the tooth's integrity and prevent further damage. However, you may be wondering how long dental crowns last on teeth. As with many other things, the wear and tear your dental crown endures will determine its longevity.
What is a Dental Crown?
Tooth damage occurs for various reasons, such as injuries, decay, and normal wear and tear, causing the teeth to lose their size and shape. Your dentist may recommend dental crowns to address the problem. These are tooth-shaped caps placed over damaged teeth to restore their size, shape, appearance, and strength.
When installed, a dental crown covers the entire visible portion of the damaged tooth. Think of it as a snug hat for your damaged tooth.
Why Would You Need a Dental Crown?
Some of the reasons dentists recommend crowns include:
protect weak or decayed teeth from breaking
prevent further cracking
secure dental bridges in place
restore cracked, broken, or severely worn-down teeth
cover dental implants
cover and support teeth with large fillings
protect teeth treated with a root canal
conceal misshapen or discolored teeth
How Long Do Crowns Last?
A typical porcelain dental crown can last around 15 years. Some can last upwards of 25 years if well maintained. Of course, the mouth is a complex system. So, many factors can affect a tooth crown's longevity, including oral hygiene habits and daily wear and tear.
If you grind or clench your teeth, you can expect your tooth crown to have a shorter lifespan. Eating habits can also affect its lifespan. Using a night guard while you sleep and maintaining excellent oral hygiene will significantly increase your crown's life.
Furthermore, the placement of the crown can also play a role in its lifespan. Some expertly placed crowns can last a lifetime, while others may crack and require replacement after a few years. Generally, well-cared-for crowns can last between 10 and 30 years.
What Can Affect the Lifespan of Your Dental Crown?
When you get a tooth crown, it is best to be mindful of several things. These include:
Bad habits like clenching and grinding your teeth can damage your teeth and crown. You should also avoid crunching down on hard food items and ice.
Some dental crown materials are more durable than others.
Poor dental hygiene habits can cause you to lose your crown prematurely.
Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential to a tooth crown's longevity. Your dentist has the tools and experience necessary to care for your natural teeth and dental crowns. Regular cleanings will prevent the spread of new infections that could endanger both the crown and the tooth beneath.
For more on dental crowns, visit Boss Dental Care at our Corpus Christi, Texas office. Call 361-245-5400 to schedule an appointment today.
