The Lifespan of Dental Crowns: How Long Will Your Restoration Last?

You’ve just gotten a dental crown to protect a tooth that was badly damaged by decayed. So far, it has made a big difference in letting you continue to eat and speak as you normally would. However, you may be worried about needing a replacement; after all, you can’t expect dental crowns in far North Dallas to last forever, so when will you have to get a new one? The good news is that by giving your restoration the proper care, you can significantly improve its lifespan.

What is the Expected Lifespan of Dental Crowns?

Like your natural teeth, a dental crown is subject to the wear and tear of everyday use, meaning its lifespan largely depends on your personal lifestyle and your oral health habits. A porcelain crown typically lasts about 5 to 15 years. With that in mind, there are cases where you can keep the same restoration for up to 30 years; it mostly depends on the quality of the maintenance you give it.

Tips for Making a Crown Last

First, it’s essential that the tooth underneath the crown should be kept healthy; that means continuing to brush and floss thoroughly like you normally would. If a cavity forms on the tooth, the crown might need to be removed for treatment. For this reason, you should be paying careful attention to the area around the crown during your dental hygiene routine.

As for protecting the crown itself, you should be aware of habits that could physically damage it. If you tend to clench or grind your teeth, it could crack the restoration. This often happens at night, so you may need to wear a custom-made mouthguard while you sleep. Also, you shouldn’t chew on your fingernails or other hard, inedible objects. Never open a package with your teeth; find scissors or another tool to use instead.

Finally, continue seeing your dentist in far North Dallas at least twice a year. They can evaluate the health of your tool and check for problems with the crown.

When Do Crowns Need to Be Replaced?

A crown doesn’t need to be replaced simply because it’s old, but you will need a new one if it becomes cracked or otherwise broken. If you choose to ignore it, you’ll leave the tooth underneath exposed, increasing the risk of decay. Also, if your crown wasn’t properly fitted, it could affect the balance of your bite, putting additional pressure on both the restoration and the rest of your teeth.

Whether you just got a new crown or if it’s been years since you got your current one, your dentist can help you identify warning signs that it’s about to fail and provide additional tips for maximizing its lifespan. Make sure your newly restored smile lasts for as long as possible.

About the Practice

At Bear Creek Family Dentistry, our numerous general dentists and specialists help ensure that you and your little ones can get the quality health care you deserve under one roof. Our dental crowns are made from a variety of durable materials that look and feel natural in your mouth. To schedule an appointment at our location in far North Dallas, visit our website or call (972) 490-1600.