How long will a dental crown last?

Dental crowns are caps shaped like your natural tooth a dentist place on a decayed or damaged tooth to protect them. Crowns are also used in cosmetic dentistry to enhance or hide discolored and misshapen tooth. Placing crowns on teeth are standard procedures in many dental clinics. Dental crown materials have come a long way and have improved significantly in the technology and material used to make crowns. Often patients may have questions about the durability and longevities of crowns. This is a legitimate concern because having a crown placed on a tooth is an expensive procedure.

Crowns can last a lifetime but its millage will vary based on how crowns are cared for.

Dental crowns can last up to fifteen years or more if properly cared. However, dental crowns will eventually wear out. To extend the life of a crown, you should take extra care when flossing and brushing around crowned teeth to prevent damage. Dental crowns, whether made from porcelain on metal, gold, or all-porcelain, will not decay. Often when a crown becomes damaged or compromised, it is due to poor hygiene or neglecting proper care. The strength and longevity of a crown can be affected by fractures or cavities on the supporting tooth. If a crowned becomes damaged, the natural tooth that supports the crown is exposed and can become vulnerable to cavities and decay. If your crown is damaged or falls out, you should consider making a appoint to see your dentist immediately. Getting a crown replaced will depend on the amount of wear and tear you expose the crown to such as biting, chewing, tooth grinding, and accidental trauma. How long a dental crown last is determined by how you care for your crowns and the material used to manufacture crowns. Generally, crowns made from metal will tend to outlast crowns made from porcelain or any of its derivatives.

Simple steps to help extend the life of your dental crowns.

To keep your crowns healthy and damaged free, consider these simple tips when caring for your crowns.

• Practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing twice per day.
• If you grind or clench your teeth, you should consider wearing a custom sleeping mouth guard to protect your teeth and crowns.
• Avoid biting hard foods such as hard candy or chewing pens and pencils that can damage your natural teeth and the crown.

If you have question about dental crown or considering restorative dental procedures please contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 to make your appointment.