Dental crowns are one of the most favored ways of fixing damaged or weakened teeth. Regardless of whether you have a crown because of decay, cracks, or aesthetic issues, knowing its life expectancy and how to maintain it can maximize its lifespan. If you’re looking for dental crowns in South Edmonton, you should know how long they last and what can keep them in good shape.
Average Life Span of Dental Crowns
The life of a dental crown depends on many factors, including the kind of material used, hygiene, and the patient’s habits. Dental crowns have an average life of 10 to 15 years, but with good care some have lasted more than 20 years or so.
Types of Dental Crown Materials and Their Lifespan
- Porcelain Crowns: Very aesthetic and natural in appearance, these crowns last around 10-15 years but tend to chip eventually.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: PFM crowns are both strong and beautiful, and they tend to last for ten to fifteen years.
- Metal Crowns (Gold or Silver Alloys): The strongest crowns are of metal (gold or silver alloys) and can last for 15 to 20 years or more if properly taken care of.
- Zirconia Crowns: They last for about 15 to 20 years and are very strong and durable.
- Resin Crowns: Resin crowns are not as durable and typically must be replaced in five to ten years.
Factors That Affect the Longevity of Dental Crowns
Several elements influence how long your crown will last:
1. Oral Hygiene Practices
Brushing and flossing adequately can actually prevent decay and gum disease from ever compromising the support for the crown. Seeing your dentist regularly will allow for easy detection of problems as they may arise.
2. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Grinding or clenching your teeth will wear out your crown quite fast. A South Edmonton dentist would recommend nightguard usage for individuals who tend to do this so as not to damage their crowns.
3. Diet and Eating Patterns
Staying away from hard, sticky, or acidic foods will help prolong the life of your crown. Cracking ice with your teeth, chewing nails, or employing teeth as tools can result in cracks or chips.
4. Where the Crown Is Placed
Crowns on back teeth (molars) handle more force when chewing and tend to wear more quickly than crowns on front teeth.
5. Periodic Dental Visits
Visiting a dentist near you for regular cleanings and checkups keeps the crown and adjacent teeth in integrity.
Signs That Your Dental Crown Needs Replacement
Despite good care, dental crowns will eventually require replacement. Look for these signs:
- Visible Wear or Damage: Chips, cracks, or visible wear mean it’s time for a new crown.
- Pain or Sensitivity: Greater sensitivity or pain around the crowned tooth may mean decay or a loose crown.
- Gum Recession: If the gum line around the crown recedes, it may leave the underlying tooth exposed to decay.
- Loose Crown: A loose or wobbly crown must be treated right away to avoid more damage.
- Discoloration: Although crowns do not stain like natural teeth, the underlying tooth can become darker and require an assessment.
How to Prolong the Life of Your Dental Crown
Caring for your crown is easy with good habits:
- Brush and Floss Every Day: With a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive toothpaste, clean around the crown.
- Wear a Mouthguard if necessary: If you brux or grind your teeth, a protective nightguard prevents unwarranted wear.
- Steer clear of Hard Foods and Bad Habits: Avoid chewing on ice, using your teeth as tools to open packages, or eating extremely hard food.
- Visit Your Dentist Every So Often: Regular checks detect issues early on and keep your dental work around longer.
Why Choose Whitemud Dental Centre for Your Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are an excellent long-term solution for protecting and restoring teeth. With good care and regular dental checkups, they can last for many years before needing replacement. If you need a dentist in South Edmonton, the experts at Whitemud Dental Centre can help you achieve a healthy and lasting smile.
Schedule a consultation today to ensure your dental restorations stay in top condition for years to come!
