Dental crowns are primarily used to protect a damaged tooth by preventing it from becoming harmed any further. Because of their hollow space on the inside, they are able to tightly fit over the compromised tooth. While they are fairly long-lasting, they are not made to spend a lifetime in your mouth. Read on to learn more from a dentist in Granger about the dental crown lifespan, how they are beneficial, and what you can do to make it last longer.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are a great option to protect damaged teeth. Here are just some of the many benefits:
- Crowns relieve pain: If your damaged tooth is painful or uncomfortable when exposed, a dental crown can reduce this. In addition to protecting your teeth against painful damage, crowns will also reduce sensitivity.
- Great appearance: In addition to oral health benefits, crowns improve the way your smile looks. They correct discoloration, staining, chips, misshapen teeth, and more!
- Minimally invasive: Placing a dental crown can be completed in just a few weeks and is a relatively simple procedure.
- Customized: Crowns are custom-made in a lab to match the exact size, shape, and color needed to blend in seamlessly with the rest of your smile.
How Long Do Crowns Last?
For most people, a dental crown lasts anywhere from 5 to 15 years. However, this will depend on your lifestyle choices, oral hygiene, habits, and where the crown is in your mouth. Your crown will become worn over time and this will happen faster if you aren’t caring for it properly. A crown that is well taken care of can last upwards of 25 years as long as the tooth beneath it remains in good shape.
How Do You Properly Care for a Dental Crown?
Take the following steps to give your dental crown a better chance of lasting much longer:
- Excellent oral hygiene: Brush twice and floss at least once every single day. When you remove food debris and plaque, you are preventing harmful bacteria from damaging the underlying tooth and surrounding gum tissue.
- Eliminate bad habits: If you tend to chew on ice or non-food items like pencils, pens, or your nails, then you could be putting your dental crown at risk.
- Beat bruxism: If you grind or clench your teeth at night, you could damage your crowns or natural teeth. Talk to your dentist in Southbend about possible solutions.
- See your dentist: By visiting your dentist regularly for checkups, they will be able to ensure than your crown is still in good shape.
With proper care and maintenance, your dental crown can last a long time! This way, you can reap the benefits for many years before you need to worry about a replacement.
About the Author
Dr. Joseph E. Hickey earned his dental doctorate from the Indiana University School of Dentistry and is committed to continuing education to this day. He works alongside Dr. Kevin T. Campbell who has been working in the field for almost 38 years. Dr. Campbell is a member of the American Dental Association and Indiana Dental Association. For more information on dental crowns or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (574) 277-4235.