How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns can be used to bring restoration and integrity to an ailing tooth. They can also be used to enhance a smile. And although they are not meant to be a temporary solution, they are not meant to be permanent, either.
What is a Dental Crown?
Sometimes referred to as a cap, a dental crown can be used as part of many different dental treatments. A dentist may use a dental crown to cover and protect a cracked tooth, reshape a tooth, replace a large filling, hide discolorations, or give strength to a tooth with much decay. Dental crowns are also found as the artificial tooth that is attached to a dental implant.
In other words, you will find dental crowns in both restorative and cosmetic roles in dentistry.
Dental crowns are custom-designed for each patient, that way they are sure to blend in beautifully with the other teeth, including size, shape, contour, and color. And, because they are made with some excellent materials, they can last for quite a while.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns require a high level of care if you want them to last a long time. The better you care for it, the longer it will last. The average lifespan of a dental crown is somewhere between 10 and 15 years. Of course, those well-cared for have been known to last 20 years or more.
Extending the life of your dental crown is rather easy as long as you:
- Follow an excellent oral hygiene routine that includes brushing and flossing regularly - and visiting your dentist every 6 months for a professional cleaning and examination.
- Invest in a mouthguard if you often grind your teeth.
- Avoid crunchy and chewy foods that can put your dental crown at risk.
- Quit smoking as it is bad for your oral health - and your overall health.
Factors that Impact the Lifespan of a Dental Crown
All dental crowns are not created equal. And there are many different factors that play a role in how long one will last, including:
- The type of material used. Dental crowns can be made with all different types of material - and they don’t all provide the same results. Some will last longer than others based on this alone.
- How well the dental crown is placed. In order for a dental crown to last, it has to be placed with precision and skill. Without the right dentist, you could jeopardize its effectiveness.
- The amount of natural tooth remaining. The more of your tooth that remains, the greater the chance you will have of keeping your dental crown in place.
- The location of the dental crown. Crowns found in back molars get used more - and under greater bite force.
- Bad habits. Bad habits, such as biting nails, biting on pen caps, opening bottles with your teeth, and more can all shorten the lifespan of a dental crown.
Dental Crowns in Bronxville
If you are in need of a dental crown and want it to last for as long as possible, it all starts with finding a highly skilled dental team. And at Bronxville Family Dental, that is exactly what you will find.
Contact us today at 914-337-8430 to learn more about dental crowns - or to schedule an appointment.