Now that you have a dental crown, you probably feel fairly good about your smile. That’s only natural – your new cap should make your tooth stronger and prettier. However, don’t start thinking your grin is safe forever; your treatment has a limited lifespan. You’ll need to know how long a dental crown can last to preserve its results well. So, here’s a primer on crown lifespans and how to help your own crown last longer.
The Lifespans of Dental Crowns
How long a dental crown lasts will vary from one patient to another. That said, you can still get a few rough estimates based on settled facts.
The average dental crown has a lifespan of ten years or so, as it’s made of sturdy materials. Such durable substances help it withstand the force of your bite. Still, a given crown can work for a longer period if it’s provided good care. It could then reach a lifespan of 15 to 30 years.
Outside factors can also impact how long a crown lasts. Oral hygiene is one such element, affecting whether your cap fails early or lasts past the average lifespan. Others include a dental crown’s location, the material used to make it, etc.
When Should You Replace a Dental Crown?
Only a qualified dentist will know for sure if your crown should be replaced. Even so, you can watch out for signs that your cap is near its end. Some notable examples of these include:
- The dental crown has chips or cracks.
- You have pain in or around the crowned tooth.
- Your bite has experienced changes.
- Chewing food causes a sharp pain.
How to Make Dental Crowns Last Longer
Your crown is more likely to reach its full lifespan if you give it proper care. That being the case, remember to do the following:
- Avoid Bad Oral Habits – If you grind your teeth, chew ice, or bite your fingernails, your dental crown will fail early.
- Keep Your Mouth Clean – By brushing twice daily and flossing once daily, you’ll reduce the risk of your crowned tooth decaying further.
- See Your Dentist Often – As best you can, see your dentist at least every six months for dental checkups and cleanings. These visits address oral issues before anything can threaten your dental crown.
“How long does a dental crown last,” you ask? That’s up to you, so remember to look after your smile once your treatment is over.
About the Practice
Roselle Park Dental & Implants is based in Roselle Park, NJ. Led by Drs. Oshidar, Rodriguez, and Sinha, our practice strives to make your smile healthy and pretty for a lifetime. We pursue that goal with our top-tier preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments, as well as our dental emergency care. These services will surely help your family’s grins, from the youngest to the eldest! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (908)-245-1745.