Dental crowns are a long-lasting solution for a variety of dental issues. According to studies, up to 95% of dental crowns last up to 15 years. However, the same longevity of a dental crown depends on various factors, including the type of materials used and the patient’s oral hygiene habits.
In this article, we will explore the factors that affect how long a dental crown can last, how to prepare for a dental crown, the different materials available, and how to care for a dental crown to ensure the longest-lasting results. Additionally, we will discuss signs of wear and tear and when a dental crown may need to be replaced.
Factors That Affect Longevity
The longevity of dental crowns is affected by various factors, including the material used, the patient’s oral hygiene habits, and the dentist’s skill. Generally, dental crowns made of porcelain fused to metal have an average lifespan of five to fifteen years, while those made of all-ceramic materials may last up to twenty years. Temporary crowns, however, may only last between six and twelve months before needing to be replaced.
Good dental care is key for the success rate of any dental crown. Regular brushing and flossing of teeth and avoiding sticky foods will help ensure that the crown remains in its original shape for longer.
Insurance companies may provide coverage for dental crowns but should be consulted beforehand to understand what is covered.
In addition to good oral health habits, it is important to be mindful of broken teeth, as this can significantly reduce the lifespan of a dental crown. The crown must be replaced if the underlying tooth becomes damaged or decayed.
Seeing the dentist regularly can help to ensure that any potential issues with a dental crown are identified and treated quickly.
Preparing For a Dental Crown
Undergoing preparation for a dental crown can require a significant investment of time and money. Proper care and maintenance of the crown can help to ensure its longevity. Typically, a crown can last up to 15 years. However, the crown’s life depends on the type of crown chosen, the patient’s home care, and the proper manufacture of the crown.
When deciding on the type of crown, a patient should consider a metal alloy such as gold or a composite resin. Metal alloys tend to last longer than composite resin crowns. Proper dental visits and extra care are also necessary to maintain the crown. This includes thorough brushing and flossing and avoiding hard and sticky foods that can damage the crown.
When a dental bridge is used, proper dental cement must ensure the bridge is secured to the crown. If the bridge is not properly secured, it can cause the crown to become loose or fall off. Following the dentist’s instructions is essential when caring for the crown.
A dental crown can last up to 15 years with proper care.
Dental Crown Materials
Studies have shown that metal alloys are more durable than composite resin crowns, leading to a longer lifespan for the dental crown. With various materials available, the type of crown will ultimately determine how long it will last.
The most common crowns used for dental restoration are metal crowns, ceramic crowns, porcelain crowns, and zirconia crowns.
- Metal crowns are strong, durable, and last much longer than other types of crowns. They can be made of gold alloys and base metal alloys such as chromium, cobalt, and nickel.
- Ceramic crowns are the closest material to a natural tooth and are made from a ceramic material. They are strong and durable but may not last as long as metal crowns if not properly cared for.
- Porcelain crowns are made from porcelain material and are very durable. They look natural but may need to be replaced more often than metal crowns.
- Zirconia crowns are made from a strong, durable material and resistant to staining and discolouration. They look natural and can last for many years if properly cared for.
For dental crowns to last as long as possible, it is essential to practice good oral hygiene and avoid harmful habits such as smoking or grinding teeth. Regular dental checkups can help identify potential issues with the original tooth or the type of crown chosen.
Dental crowns can last for many years with proper care and regular maintenance.
Caring for a Dental Crown
Caring for a dental crown can help to maximize its longevity, preventing the need to replace it prematurely. The entire tooth, including the crown, must be kept in reasonable condition to protect the weak teeth and ensure a longer lifespan for the crown. Proper oral hygiene habits are essential, including brushing and flossing daily and visiting the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
A permanent crown may last anywhere from five to fifteen years for composite material crowns, while a partial crown may last up to five years. A permanent crown may last up to fifteen years for metal crowns, and a partial crown may last up to eight years.
Failure to properly care for a dental crown can reduce its lifespan. Loose crowns caused by tooth decay or trauma should be examined and treated promptly by an experienced dentist to prevent further damage or decay. If the crown is not treated promptly, it may need to be replaced sooner than anticipated. Additionally, poor oral hygiene habits can increase the risk of crown failure. Plaque and tartar buildup can cause the crown to become loose or break, leading to the need for a replacement.
Daily brushing and flossing, as well as regular visits to the dentist, can help ensure the crown’s long-term success. Taking proper care of a dental crown can help to extend its lifespan, possibly preventing the need for a premature replacement.
Signs of Wear and Tear
Signs of wear and tear on a dental crown can include chipping, discolouration, or a loose fit. For example, if a person notices their crown is no longer fitting snugly on their tooth, it may indicate that the crown is wearing down and needs to be replaced.
Tooth crowns are extremely durable when properly fitted, cared for, and used with the finest cement. However, a decayed tooth, such as a composite resin crown, may require a more successful treatment. An expert professional must do such a procedure to ensure a proper diagnosis and successful outcome.
Crowns can last anywhere from five to fifteen years, depending on how well they are cared for and how the individual treats them. For instance, avoiding bottle caps or hard objects that could chip or damage the crown is strongly advised. Similarly, regular dental checkups can help identify any wear and tear on the crown before it leads to more serious problems.
Overall, dental crowns are a successful treatment for decayed teeth when an expert professional does the procedure. With proper care and regular checkups, the crown can provide extreme durability and last many years, ensuring the patient’s tooth is properly protected.
Replacing a Dental Crown
Replacing a worn or damaged dental crown is an essential step in preserving the patient’s dental health and restoring the natural appearance of their smile. Depending on the type of dental crown and its material, a replacement of a dental crown may be needed every 5 to 15 years.
Gold alloy dental crowns are the most popular option and can last up to 15 years before needing to be replaced. Other materials used for crowns, such as porcelain and ceramic, may last 5 to 8 years, while posterior crowns may need to be replaced every 5 to 8 years.
To properly fit a dental crown, the gum tissue must be healthy, and the proper crown materials must be chosen. Gold crowns are a popular option due to their durability, and they are also aesthetically pleasing. Porcelain or ceramic crowns may be preferred for their natural appearance and ability to match the patient’s existing teeth.
Professionally-fitted dental crowns will ensure that the replacement crown fits properly and will last for years.
A dental crown replacement is a major decision that should be discussed with a dental professional. It is essential to select the proper materials for the crown and a professional who can ensure that the crown fits correctly. Patients can expect their dental crowns to last for years with suitable materials and a properly-fitted crown.
Key Takeaways
The longevity of a dental crown depends on various factors, including the quality of the initial preparation, the material used, and the patient’s care of the crown. The crown must be well-maintained to ensure a long life.
Regular dental visits should be maintained to identify any signs of wear and tear. Although crowns are made to last, they will eventually need to be replaced.
However, with proper care and maintenance, a dental crown can last several years, possibly even a decade or more.
The potential cost of replacing a crown is an anticipated objection that should be considered. However, proper care and maintenance of the crown can help to minimize the need for frequent replacements, ultimately leading to a more cost-effective solution in the long term.
A patient can enjoy a longer-lasting restoration with fewer replacements by taking the necessary steps to protect a dental crown.
Come to Hills Dental Design in Pennant Hills, NSW, for the highest quality dental crowns and longest-lasting restorations. Our dentists in Pennant Hills will work with you to create a personalised plan of care to ensure that your dental crown lasts for years to come. Schedule an appointment today to learn how Hills Dental Design can help you get the most out of your dental crown.