If you have a tooth
that’s been severely weakened by decay or was broken after you got hit in the
face, your dentist may be able to repair and protect it with a dental crown. The question is, how long will the
restoration last? Here’s what you can expect from dental crowns in Lincoln – as
well as ways you can make sure you get as many years of use as possible.
The Lifespan of a Dental Crown
On average, dental crowns can last anywhere from 5 to 15
years; it largely depends on what they’re made of and how well you take care of
them. Crowns can be made of ceramic and porcelain for cosmetic reasons, but
traditional metal crowns are still sometimes used today. A metal restoration is
sometimes more durable, especially when used on the back teeth.
That said, good maintenance is by far the most important
factor. In general, you’ll get the best results from practicing good oral
hygiene, avoiding poor mouth related habits (such as not brushing regularly or
frequently biting down on hard objects), and limiting the amount of wear and
tear you put on your crown. To put it simply: you should protect your
restoration the same way you would protect the rest of your teeth.
Taking Care of Dental Crowns
Here are some helpful tips that’ll extend the lifespan of
your crown:
- Brush at least twice a day. Crowns can’t get
cavities, but the tooth it sits on and the surrounding gums are still
vulnerable to decay. Be gentle so that you don’t damage the crown (or the rest
of your teeth).
- Floss every day so that you can be sure that
you’re cleaning every nook and cranny in your mouth.
- Avoid hard candies, nuts, crunchy vegetables
such as raw carrots, sticky desserts and chewing gum; these can all cause
unnecessary wear and tear.
- Don’t open packages with your teeth.
- Never chew on hard objects like fingernails or
pen tips.
- See your dentist at least twice a year for
checkups and cleanings.
- Wear a mouthguard when playing sports.
When It’s Time to Replace
There’ll be a few signs that your crown needs to be traded
in for a new one soon. You might notice that your bite feels off – that is,
your teeth don’t fit together quite like they used to. Also, it should go
without saying that any pain or discomfort around your crown should tell you
that something is wrong. Since the restoration’s lifespan will vary from person
to person, dental checkups are particularly important to make sure that it’s
still functioning like it’s supposed to.
Constant vigilance is the key. As long as you consistently
care for your crown and protect your mouth from physical damage, you can rest
assured that you won’t need a replacement for a long time.
About the Author
Dr. Jennifer A. Reed has been practicing in Lincoln since 2002. She has a certificate of specialization in prosthodontics; that means that she’s particularly skilled when it comes to placing dental crowns, porcelain veneers, and other types of restorations. If you have any other questions about crowns, schedule an appointment at her practice, Smile Specialties, by visiting her website or calling (402) 488-5007.
