How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns in fishers indiana are a great solution for weakened or damaged teeth, but nothing lasts forever. They can protect your teeth for a long time, years or even decades, and will greatly improve your quality of (dental) life the whole time. At the time of placement, it is impossible to know exactly how long they will last, but dental crowns are an extremely effective long term solution.
The average lifespan for dental crowns is between 10 and 30 years. While that range is quite large, it is difficult to be specific due to the fact that no two crowns are exactly alike. Just as each tooth within a mouth is distinct, so are dental crowns. Depending on a variety of factors, some crowns may crack or come loose soon after they are placed while others will last for the rest of your life.
The best way to estimate how long your crown will last is to consult with your dentist. When a crown is placed, the tooth it is meant to protect must first be prepared by drilling away any decay and filing it so that the crown will sit properly on top. Some teeth are so worn or damaged by decay that a crown will not be able to be placed, or a placed crown will not stay seated correctly. When this happens, it is usually best to replace the tooth with an implant or dental bridge.
Another more common instance that causes crowns to fail earlier than they should is improper placement. Sometimes your dentist will be unable to properly affix the crown to your tooth, whether because of decay or bad materials. Crowns are custom made in dental laboratories and then bonded to your tooth by your dentist, so if one or both parties make a mistake in forming or placing a crown, it will need to be replaced sooner than expected. In cases like these, dental insurance will usually cover the costs of placing a new crown.
The different materials your crown may be made of will also play a part in how long they last. Metal crowns are often extremely durable but are also often made of gold and therefore expensive. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are very hard but also brittle so patients with a strong bite can crack them when chewing on hard foods like popcorn or ice. Porcelain and ceramic are also so hard that they may wear down the natural teeth that come into contact with them during normal biting and chewing.
The best way to ensure a long lifespan for your dental crowns is to practice good oral hygiene. Brushing twice a day and flossing with proper technique once a day will help to keep them clean and prevent gum disease. While the crown covers and protects the biting surface of the tooth, plaque and tartar can still cause decay to the underlying tooth underneath the cap. Make sure to visit your dentist several times every year for regular cleanings and checkups to prolong the life of your teeth and crowns.