Dental crowns are an excellent way to restore a tooth after it has been compromised by injury, decay, or a dental procedure like a root canal. They restore these teeth to their normal size, shape, and function, and can be virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. However, they will eventually require replacement, and how good they look and how long they last largely depends on the kind of care they receive. Here’s how long a dental crown can be expected to last and how to keep it working well in the long run.
How Do Dental Crowns Work?
A dental crown is a cap cemented on top of a damaged tooth that replaces its lost structure and protects the rest of it from harm. They can also be used to support other restorations like dental bridges. Dental crowns can be placed in as few as two appointments and are customized to precisely match the individual teeth they are restoring.
In the past, dental crowns were made out of metals like gold and silver, but these crowns were clearly distinct from the rest of the teeth and could be uncomfortable due to thermal expansion. These days, they are made out of high-quality ceramic that looks and works like real tooth structure. This allows for a superior restoration that lasts long, looks great, and won’t be noticed by the casual observer.
How Long Can My Dental Crown Last?
The average lifespan of dental crowns is around ten years, but if they are properly well-manufactured and maintained, they can last for decades. The only way to determine if a crown needs replacement is through a clinical examination or X-ray imaging. A few reasons a crown would need replacement include:
- Tooth decay is present around the crown.
- There are any gaps in the seal between the crown and the tooth.
- The crown is broken.
- The crown is providing space for food debris and bacteria to accumulate.
If you suspect that your crown needs replacing, contact your dentist. A few signs that your crown may be ready for retirement include:
- You experience pain in the tooth wearing the crown.
- The crown seems to be moving.
- The restoration is no longer aesthetically pleasing.
What Can Affect How Long My Crown Can Last?
The most important factor in how long your crown can last is your oral hygiene routine. A proper dental cleaning routine includes brushing twice a day, flossing, and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash. It’s also important to be sure to clean around the base of the crown, as it can be easy for bacteria to accumulate there. The lifespan of your dental crown will also be affected by the health of your tooth and bad habits such as teeth grinding or using your teeth as tools.
Your dental crowns should be long-term investments that look great for as long as you wear them. With proper dental care, including regular dentist appointments, your dental crowns can last for many years.
About the Author
Dr. Jasmine King earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from The University of Tennessee College of Dentistry before relocating to the DFW area in 2006. She completes many hours of continuing education every year and is a member of the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, and the Fort Worth District Dental Society. Her office in Fort Worth, TX offers general, pediatric, cosmetic, emergency, and restorative dentistry such as dental crowns. For more information on caring for your dental crowns, contact the office online or dial (817) 292-7488.