While tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, it doesn’t mean it’s indestructible. By grinding your teeth or taking an accidental blow to the mouth, you can still wear down or break your pearly whites. Fortunately, restorative treatments like dental crowns can effectively renew the strength, function, and beauty of your smile. However, you may be wondering about the longevity of these protective caps compared to your permanent teeth. Keep reading to learn how long a dental crown generally lasts and what you can do to extend its life.
What Can Impact the Lifespan of a Dental Crown?
Due to advancements in dental materials, techniques, and technology, these dental caps are much stronger and more natural-looking than those in the past. Generally speaking, dental crowns will have to be replaced every 15 years or so. This can depend on a few factors, such as:
- Location in the mouth – A dental crown in the back of the mouth is more likely to wear down faster than one in the front, as it’ll be subject to the excessive pressures from daily chewing.
- Maintenance – Avoiding poor oral habits (like nail-biting and chewing on ice) and practicing good oral hygiene can preserve a strong and healthy smile and dental crown.
- Material – Restorations can be constructed out of metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal, or all ceramic materials, which plays an essential role in their resilience.
How Can I Prolong the Life of My Dental Crown?
Although dental crowns tend to have a lifespan of 15 years, you may be able to significantly increase this amount with proper care. If you want to extend the longevity of your restorations, you’ll need to implement certain preventive measures and healthy habits, including:
- Practice brushing & flossing – Dental health problems like gum disease and cavities can result in a loose crown, so you’ll have to practice strict oral hygiene to avoid these complications.
- Quit bad chewing habits – Using your teeth as tools or biting into hard objects like pens, ice, or your nails can result in a chipped or cracked dental crown.
- Reduce hard & sticky food consumption – While your restoration may be durable, overindulging in hard, crunchy, and sticky meals can potentially damage or loosen your crown.
- Prevent teeth grinding – If you typically grind or clench your teeth while sleeping, consider investing in nightguards for bruxism to avoid wearing down your enamel and crown.
- Schedule dental visits every six months – With biannual checkups and cleanings, your dentist can help maintain your oral health and dental crown while keeping future concerns at bay.
Dental crowns are a strong and reliable tooth-replacement option that can last well over a decade with proper care. By practicing these few tips, you’ll be sure to enjoy the full use of your pearly whites for many years to come!
About the Author
Dr. Albert Silvera earned his dental degree from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Dentistry. He’s also a member of several prestigious groups like the Academy of General Dentistry and the California Dental Association. He offers a wide selection of high-quality services, including dental crowns. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call 310-575-0886.