If you have a tooth that’s too damaged to be treated with a filling or recently had a root canal, your dentist will likely suggest placing a dental crown. These tooth-shaped caps are cemented over damaged teeth to prevent additional injury while restoring their appearance and functionality.
Although it’s a common procedure, many patients have questions about what to expect. For instance, you might wonder how long your dental crown will last, but the answer depends significantly on your unique circumstances. Continue reading to learn about 3 things that can impact its longevity!
Factor #1: The Material It’s Made From
Typically, dental crowns remain in decent condition for anywhere from 5 to 15+ years, but it can be more or less based on the material they’re made from. Restorations created from metal amalgam or gold are sometimes preferred for their strength and durability, though most providers offer crowns made from resilient porcelain.
Although metallic crowns might have a longer lifespan than their ceramic counterparts, the difference is often negligible. Furthermore, the porcelain reflects light like enamel and can be customized to match the shade of your natural teeth for more seamless results, which is why it’s the standard option today.
Factor #2: Your Dental Hygiene Habits
These tooth-shaped caps aren’t made from the same organic components as your enamel, so you don’t have to worry that they’ll get cavities. However, the underlying tooth it’s cemented to is still at risk, so you must continue cleaning your mouth consistently to prevent possible failure.
If you don’t already have a dental hygiene routine in place, now’s an ideal time to implement one! You should brush and floss twice daily to remove plaque and bacteria that contribute to tooth decay, gum disease, and other injuries. You should also visit your dentist every six months for a routine visit, which allows them to catch and address problem areas before they have a chance to progress.
Factor #3: Where It’s Located
The placement of your dental crown can also significantly impact its lifespan. For instance, restorations covering molars in the back of your mouth sustain additional pressure from the force of daily chewing. This can erode them faster than caps that cover front teeth.
Plus, it’s somewhat harder to access your farthest molars to brush and floss them, increasing the likelihood of developing decay in the back of your mouth that can cause your crown to fail.
If you notice persistent or severe discomfort, cracks, or excessive wear to your restoration, it’s time to contact your dentist to discuss a replacement!
About the Practice
At Sandy Lake Dental & Orthodontics, you and your loved ones benefit from a multi-specialty team of dentists eager to help you build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. They collaborate to provide a comprehensive menu of top-quality services conveniently under one roof, including dental crowns. They take the time to get to know you, then utilize state-of-the-art equipment to improve your comfort while delivering accurate, lifelike results meant to last. If you have a damaged tooth that needs attention, you can request an appointment on the website or call (972) 393-7348.