How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns are one of the most effective restoration options in modern dentistry and a standard treatment used at Bluffdale Dental. They play a crucial role in long-term oral health by strengthening and protecting damaged teeth while looking natural. But how long do dental crowns last, and what can you do to make them last even longer? Let’s explore the lifespan of dental crowns and discuss helpful tips to extend their durability.
Average Lifespan of Dental Crowns
The longevity of a dental crown can depend on various factors, including the material used, your oral hygiene habits, and lifestyle choices. On average:
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns typically last 10 to 15 years.
- All ceramic or all-porcelain crowns can last 10 to 20 years with proper care.
However, with excellent oral hygiene and routine dental care, crowns can often last even longer than expected.
Factors That Affect Crown Longevity
Several key factors can influence how long your dental crown will last:
- Material Choice: Some materials, like zirconia or metal alloys, are more resistant to wear and fracture than porcelain.
- Placement Location: Crowns on molars endure more pressure and wear than those on front teeth, which may affect their lifespan.
- Oral Hygiene: Daily brushing and flossing help prevent decay around the crown margins and protect supporting teeth.
- Bite Force and Habits: Grinding (bruxism), clenching, or biting complex objects can prematurely damage or wear down crowns.
- Gum Health: Healthy gums help support the crown and prevent the underlying tooth from becoming compromised.
How to Extend the Life of Your Dental Crown
The good news is that you can take active steps to protect and preserve your dental crown for many years:
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and floss around the crown to remove plaque buildup.
- Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: Chewing on ice, popcorn kernels, hard candy, or sticky foods like caramel can dislodge or crack crowns.
- Wear a Nightguard: If you grind your teeth at night, a custom nightguard can prevent excessive wear or damage to your crown.
- Don’t Use Teeth as Tools: Opening bottles or tearing packages with your teeth increases the risk of chipping or loosening your crown.
- Stay Current on Regular Dental Checkups: Routine visits allow our team to monitor the condition of your crown, check for underlying issues, and perform professional cleanings.
- Watch for Signs of Trouble: If your crown feels loose, sensitive, or painful, call us immediately to prevent further damage.
Dental crowns are a reliable, long-term solution for restoring damaged teeth; with proper care, they can last well over a decade. With good oral hygiene, avoiding harmful habits, and regularly visiting our office, you can significantly extend the life of your dental crown.
Having issues with your crown or think you may need a crown? Give us a call today!
