Dental crowns are restorations that can be used to build up a tooth that’s compromised. If a tooth has cracked, broken or fractured, it may need a crown to help improve the look of the tooth as well as how well it’s able to function. Crowns can be made of porcelain, ceramic and some may even be based in metal to add support. You can rest assured that no matter what type of crown is used, it will last for many years with proper care and maintenance.
How Long Will a Dental Crown Last?
A dental crown will last for anywhere from five to about 15 years. Certain aspects may affect how long the crown actually lasts. For example, a patient who grinds their teeth regularly or who chews on ice, pens and other hard objects may find that their crown doesn’t last as long as another person who does none of these things. Crowns should be checked periodically to ensure they’re still in good shape and that the tooth underneath the crown has not decayed. It’s not uncommon for some patients to have crowns that last longer than one or two decades before the restoration needs to be fully replaced.
Maintaining Your Dental Crown
The best way to maintain your dental crown is with regular dental checkups. It’s important to come into the office twice a year so that we can clean around the crown and check to see how stable it is. A crown that’s chipped, broken or fractured severely may need to be replaced. Over time, your crown may begin to show signs of wear and tear, so we may suggest replacing the restoration at this time. You can help to keep your crown looking its best by avoiding grinding your teeth and wearing a mouth guard if you grind at night. Avoid chewing on ice, hard candies and pens or pencils as this causes unnecessary wear on the crown itself.
Your dental crown is made just for you and can last for years while looking its best. The crown is virtually stain-resistant, so it’ll look just as good as the day it was placed. With proper care and maintenance, your crown can last for one to two decades before it’s recommended you have it replaced. Keeping your mouth clean with regular brushing and flossing can extend the life of the crown and keep it looking shiny new.
