How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Versatile and durable, dental crowns can be used to restore weak or damaged teeth as well as dental implants. Dr. Louis J. Buono offers this treatment at Garden City Smiles in Long Island City, NY.
Many of our patients from Garden City, NY, and surrounding areas want to know how long dental crowns last. On average, a dental crown has a lifespan of about 15 to 20 years. However, with proper care and maintenance, this type of restoration can last upwards of 30 years. Our team educates patients on common reasons for crown replacement and how you can tell if you need a new restoration. We can also offer a few recommendations for prolonging the life of your dental crown.
How to Know When a Crown Needs to be Replaced
The lifespan of a dental crown can vary based on several factors, including your oral anatomy and level of hygiene. While crowns are incredibly durable, they are not indestructible. A few signs that indicate you need a new restoration include:
- Your crown is chipped, cracked, or broken.
- You have pain, swelling, or tenderness in the area of the crown.
- Your gums are starting to recede.
- There is a dark line visible near the gum line.
If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment at our Long Island, NY, practice as soon as possible. Dr. Buono can assess your restoration and determine if a new crown is required. In some cases, a dental crown can be repaired instead.
Other Common Reasons for Dental Crown Replacement
While it is impossible to prevent normal wear and tear, being aware of certain risk factors is helpful. Here are common reasons why dental crowns fail or need replacement:
- Poor oral hygiene: Crowns themselves are impervious to decay. However, the natural tooth structure underneath is still vulnerable to damage. If oral bacteria become trapped underneath the dental crown, a cavity can develop. To treat this decay, the dental crown would have to be removed and replaced with a new one.
- Poorly fabricated restorations: If a dental crown does not fit properly, failure is far more likely. An ill-fitting crown can increase the risk for decay, gum disease, and other dental issues.
- Bite issues: Ideally, bite forces should be evenly distributed across the dental arch. If the bite is unbalanced, dental crowns can crack or break under excessive pressure.
- Aesthetics: Many crowns are made with a metal substructure for additional durability, particularly when restoring back teeth. A porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crown consists of a metal base that is topped with medical-grade ceramic. These restorations offer both strength and aesthetics. Over time, however, the underlying metal may show through. In these cases, patients may choose to replace their PFM crowns with all-ceramic options.
How to Prolong the Life of Your Dental Crown
There are plenty of things patients can do to extend the lifespan of their dental crowns. Follow these guidelines to keep your restoration in tip-top condition:
- Avoid teeth grinding and clenching: If you suffer from bruxism, talk to our team about a custom night guard. These oral appliances help protect the natural teeth – and any restorations – from excessive forces.
- Do not bite hard food or objects: Avoid using your teeth as tools. For example, biting your fingernails or using your teeth to open packages can seriously damage your restorations. You should also never bite into ice, hard candy, or similar foods.
- Practice good oral hygiene at home: Be sure to brush and floss every day. Ask your dentist about special cleaning tools, like interproximal brushes and dental picks, that can help you successfully clean around your restorations.
- Visit your dentist routinely: Even with impeccable at-home hygiene, regular dental visits are essential. During these appointments, your dentist can assess your dental crown to ensure it is in good condition.
Contact Our Practice to Learn More
To learn more about dental crowns and how to get the most out of this restorative dentistry procedure, schedule a visit at our practice. Call us at (516) 294-0375 or contact us online