How long do Dental Crowns last?
A dental crown greenville sc is an effective tool which is used to restore teeth. Crowns can even be used when there is severe damage. Many patients want to know how long crowns are expected to last.
As with any dental procedure, there is a range for the expected lifespan of a dental crown. On average, a dental crown has an average lifespan of about 10 to 15 years or more. In some cases, a crown can last a patient their entire lifetime, but for others, the crown cracks or becomes loose shortly after it is placed. A dentist may estimate that a crown will last about 15 years, and suggest another crown can last up to 20 years. While there are not guarantees with the estimated life expectancy of a crown, it can be a good guideline for the expected duration of the crown. Although most crowns are expected to last at least eight years, insurance often covers replacement crowns when they are needed within 5-8 years of the initial placement.
A good method for determining how long to expect your dental crown to last is by asking your dentist. One of the most important factors which impacts the life expectancy for a crown is the health of your existing teeth and gums. In some cases, the tooth does not create a strong foundation for the crown. If the tooth is not healthy enough, the dentist will not be able to place a crown. In this case, the tooth may need to be replaced with an implant or a dental bridge.
Another reason that crowns prematurely fail is when they are not properly fit to the supporting tooth. A crown which does not fit correctly will continue to come loose, sometimes just months after it is placed. When a crown fits poorly, it is often due to poor work from the dental laboratory. Be sure to ask the dentist if they are happy with their dental lab or if they would be willing to provide references. In regards to dental crowns, the work of the lab technician is equally important to the dentist’s work to ensure a well-fitting crown.
In addition to ensuring the crown is well made and fits properly, below are additional factors which cam impact the crown’s lifespan:
- Oral hygiene: To ensure good oral health with or without a crown, it is important to brush the teeth twice each day and regularly floss. Good oral hygiene aids in preserving the natural tooth below the crown as the tooth has the potential to decay if it is neglected.
- Personal habits: Patients who bite on ice, chew on pens, or if you chew hard candy, often find that the crown breaks earlier than expected. Grinding or clenching the teeth can also negatively impact the crown and cause early failure. For patients who grind their teeth at night, talk to your dentist about wearing a mouth guard to protect the crown and the remaining healthy teeth.
- Crown material: The material which is used to create the dental crown can vary in both appearance and durability. For example, porcelain appears more natural, however, it is not as durable compared to dental alloys. While dental alloys do not always look as natural as porcelain. Your dentist help determine which material will best meet your needs.
Crowns are an excellent option for restoring damaged or unattractive teeth and when cared for properly, crowns can last for many years.