Dental crowns, also known as caps, are used to repair teeth damaged or decayed beyond the point of repair with a filling. Dental crowns provide strength and protection against further decay or breakage. They look exactly like the original natural tooth and blend in perfectly with other teeth, so you won’t even be able to tell which one is artificial. But just how long does a dental crown last?
The Lifespan of Dental Crowns
Dental Crown Longevity
When it comes to the longevity of a dental crown, it depends on a few factors. One is the material that the crown is made out of; porcelain and ceramic ones generally last longer than metal or plastic ones. The overall health of your teeth also plays a role – if you take good care of your teeth and practice regular oral hygiene, then your crown will likely last much longer than someone who doesn’t. Lastly, how well the crown was initially fitted can significantly affect its longevity. If there are any gaps between the tooth and the crown, then bacteria can slowly degrade both the tooth and the crown itself.
Dental Crown Maintenance
The best way to ensure that your dental crown lasts for many years is to take good care of it. Just like with your natural teeth, you should brush and floss daily to prevent plaque and bacteria buildup. You should also be aware of what food you are eating; hard or sticky foods can put extra strain on a dental crown and cause it to crack or break. Finally, visit your dentist regularly so they can check on your crowns’ health and ensure they are still correctly fitted.
Dental Crown Replacement
When a dental crown needs replacing due to damage, decay, or simply wearing down over time, your dentist will likely suggest getting a new one. Dental crowns can last for many years, but eventually, they will need to be replaced. Depending on the material and how well it is taken care of, a dental crown can last anywhere from five to fifteen years.
Dental Crown Procedure
Dental Exam
Before getting started with any dental procedure, your dentist will thoroughly examine your mouth to determine if you are a good candidate for the treatment. During this exam, they will also check on the condition of your existing teeth and gums to ensure there isn’t any underlying damage or decay that could cause complications during or after the procedure.
Dental Crown Placement
Once it’s been determined that you are a good candidate for a dental crown, the procedure can begin. This involves preparing the existing tooth by removing any decay or damage and then shaping it to make room for the new crown. The crown is made in a lab and customized to fit your exact measurements. Once it arrives at your dentist’s office, they will place it on your tooth and ensure no gaps between the two before permanently affixing it with unique adhesive.
Dental Crown Aftercare
Once the dental crown has been placed, you will need to take extra care of both the crown and the surrounding teeth. This means brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly so they can check on the health of your crowns. It would also help if you experienced no difference in day-to-day life with a dental crown.
Conclusion:
Dental crowns are a great way to restore strength and protection to damaged or decayed teeth. With proper care and maintenance, a dental crown can last many years before needing to be replaced. While the exact lifespan of a dental crown depends on several factors, such as material and how well it is taken care of, most last anywhere from five to fifteen years before requiring replacement.
