How Long Will the Lifespan of Your Dental Crown Be?

Dental crowns are made out of highly durable materials that can withstand the forces of biting and chewing that they will be exposed to on a daily basis. However, it’s important to remember that dental crowns do have finite lifespans, and some may last longer than others. Your dentist is here to explain how long you can expect your dental crown to last and give you some tips that can help you keep it for as long as possible.

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

Dental crowns can typically be expected to last somewhere between 5 and 15 years, but you can sometimes keep them even longer than that. The longevity of your crown is strongly influenced by your ability to take good care of it. The size of the crown and the material used to create it can also make a difference.

How Can You Help Your Dental Crown Last Longer?

Naturally, you will want to do whatever you can to extend the lifespan of your dental crown as much as possible. Here are some steps that can help you accomplish this goal:

• Protect Your Crown From Bruxism: If you grind and clench your teeth while you’re asleep, your dental crown may become damaged. Wearing a nightguard can go a long way toward keeping your restoration safe (and it allows you to protect the rest of your smile as well).
• Maintain a Good Oral Hygiene Routine: Excellent oral hygiene is critical for helping your dental crown last. Remember to brush thoroughly at least two times a day, and start flossing daily if you don’t already.
• Choose Your Meals and Snacks Carefully: Sticky foods can pull your crown off your teeth. Meanwhile, hard foods might end up damaging your restoration. It’s important to take note of the foods that can cause problems for your crown so that you can exercise the appropriate caution.
• Avoid Opening Packages with Your Teeth: Using your teeth to tear open packages may seem like a time-saver, but it’s also hard on your crown as well as the rest of your smile. Instead, look for scissors or another type of tool that can get the job done.
• Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Just like your natural teeth, your dental crown can benefit from regular attention from a professional. When you visit your dentist for a routine checkup, they can take a look at your crown to make sure that there aren’t any problems with it.

Are you worried that you aren’t giving your crown the right kind of care? Let your dentist know; they can give you additional advice to help your restoration last as long as possible.

About the Author

Dr. Shandy Condie went to the Creighton School of Dentistry, and she has received training at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. Patients in Gilbert can depend on her to repair their damaged teeth with high-quality dental crowns. If you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Condie at Desert Springs Dental, visit our website or call (480) 279-3100.