You may have heard about dental crowns in passing. Or, maybe you have one or two in your mouth! However, you may not realize how crucial they are for your oral health and the integrity of damaged teeth. If you need dental crowns, you may wonder about their lifespan. What are they even good for? Dental crowns are versatile tools that can help restore your smile.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
One of the most common questions people have about dental crowns is regarding their lifespan. On average, dental crowns can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years. However, this can depend on factors like oral hygiene practices, the material, and the location of the crown in the mouth.
Proper oral care, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, can greatly contribute to the lifespan of these restorations. These habits help prevent issues like decay and gum disease, which can compromise the health of the crowned tooth.
Factors that Influence Dental Crowns
The material for the dental crown plays a crucial role in its durability. Common materials include porcelain, metal, or a combination of both. Porcelain crowns are aesthetically pleasing but may be more prone to chipping. On the other hand, metal crowns are robust but less natural-looking. Your dentist will consider your specific needs and desires when selecting the material for your crown.
Furthermore, consistent oral care routines are essential for the maintenance of dental crowns. Regular brushing and flossing help prevent plaque buildup. As a result, you can reduce the risk of decay around the crown’s edges. Also, regular check-ups with your dentist allow them to detect any issues early on. Then, they can address them before they damage the crown’s integrity.
Crowns placed in the back of the mouth, where chewing forces are stronger, may experience more wear and tear compared to those in the front. The location of the crown can influence its lifespan. Therefore, your dentist will take this into account during the treatment planning process.
What Are Dental Crowns Good For?
Dental crowns serve a variety of purposes, making them a versatile solution for numerous dental issues. For example, one of their common purposes is to restore damaged teeth. Dental crowns can restore teeth that are cracked, chipped, or severely decayed. The crown acts as a protective covering, restoring the tooth’s shape and strength.
If you have teeth with severe discoloration or irregular shapes, dental crowns can provide a natural and aesthetically pleasing solution. The crown is custom-made to match the color and shape of your surrounding teeth. They can essentially blend with the rest of your smile.
Additionally, dental crowns play a crucial role in supporting dental bridges, which replace missing teeth. Your dentist will place crowns on adjacent healthy teeth to anchor the bridge in place.
Finally, teeth that have undergone root canal treatment are often more vulnerable to fractures. Placing a dental crown over the treated tooth adds an extra layer of protection, preventing further damage.