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If you have recently undergone a root canal or have an overly decayed tooth, your dentist may recommend a dental crown. This prosthetic is custom-made to match your natural teeth and then bonded over the damaged one to protect it from further harm. It’s a solution that not only restores your smile’s functionality and appearance but also eliminates the need for extraction and replacement teeth.
Many patients are thrilled to safeguard their grins but have questions about the treatment. For example, they often wonder how long their dental crown will last. Read on to learn more about its anticipated longevity!
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
The answer to this question can vary from person to person based on your unique circumstances. That said, it’s safe to say that dental crowns usually last anywhere from 3 to 15 years. A few different factors can influence its lifespan, including:
Teeth Grinding
If you suffer from bruxism, or teeth grinding, then you’re more likely to break your restoration. The frequent or constant pressure exerted by clenching your pearly whites together can wear it down prematurely. As a result, it’s more vulnerable to chips, cracks, and fractures. Plus, you’re likely to erode your enamel unevenly, which can cause dental problems in your natural teeth, too.
Fortunately, your dentist can provide you with a custom-fitted nightguard to protect your grin at night, so you’re less likely to have any issues.
Its Location
Teeth in the back of your mouth are more prone to injury than front ones because they play a crucial role in chewing your food. You apply more chewing force on your molars to sufficiently pulverize your meal so it can be more easily digested. Therefore, a dental crown placed in the back of your mouth is more likely to be harmed than one in the front.
Furthermore, it’s harder to reach them during your daily dental hygiene routine, so the underlying teeth are more likely to develop decay.
Its Purpose
Dental crowns are often used to restore a wounded tooth but can also be used to anchor a dental bridge or cap a dental implant. If yours is covering a pearly white that’s already sustained structural damage, then it’s more likely to require repairs or replacement down the road. This is simply because the tooth it’s covering is more likely to erode eventually because it’s already been compromised.
Your Oral Hygiene Habits
It’s possible for your dental crown to last 15+ years, but only if it’s properly maintained. You should brush and floss your teeth twice daily to remove any plaque and bacteria buildup that contribute to cavities and gum disease. Also, it’s a good idea to visit your dentist every 6 months for a checkup so they can ensure your mouth and your restoration stay in good shape.
If you care for your teeth consistently, there’s a good chance your dental crown can last a decade or longer!
About the Author
Dr. S. John Salivonchik has spent the last 20 years providing people of all ages with a full array of services to meet all their dental needs under one roof. He initially attended Muhlenberg College for his undergraduate education and then graduated summa cum laude with his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the Temple Dental School. Today, he’s a member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, so he’s an expert at rebuilding smiles. If you have an injured tooth and need help, you can contact the office online or call (610) 502-1545.
