Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps that can be fit snugly over a tooth to improve its function, strength, or appearance. These common dental restorations can be used to fix a wide variety of issues, including teeth that are weak, broken, misshapen, or stained. However, since dental crowns can be used in so many different situations, it can be difficult to predict when it will need to be replaced. Here’s what you can expect from your new dental crown, how you can tell if it needs to be replaced, and what you can do extend its lifespan.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
The lifespan of a dental crown depends on what it’s made of, where it’s positioned in your mouth, and what conditions it’s exposed to. These factors all cause varying degrees of wear and tear, which will eventually weaken the crown until it needs to be replaced. For example, a dental crown in the back of the mouth will be regularly subjected to the pressure of talking and eating, and it will likely need to be replaced sooner than one towards the front.
Typically, a dental crown will need to be replaced after 15-20 years. However, with the proper care and great oral hygiene, you can easily expect it to stay in great condition for well over two decades!
What Are the Signs That My Dental Crown Needs to Be Replaced?
Even though you can count on your dental crown to last you for many years, it’s important to keep a lookout for any signs that it isn’t functioning properly anymore. Your dental crown may need to be replaced if it:
- Is no longer aesthetically pleasing or is damaged.
- Feels loose or the tooth underneath feels sensitive.
- Is surrounded by inflamed or receding gums.
How Can I make My Dental Crown Last?
Thankfully, there are plenty of easy ways you can keep your dental crown looking and feeling its best. To extend its lifespan, remember to:
- Brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day and floss between your teeth daily.
- Avoid foods and bad habits that can damage it, like chewing on hard objects, eating tough or chewy foods, and using your teeth to open packages.
- See your dentist twice a year for a routine checkup and cleaning.
It’s important for the health of your smile to know when to replace your dental crown. In the meantime, practice excellent oral hygiene to keep it beautiful and functional for many years to come!
About the Author
Dr. Barry Franzen has always gone above and beyond for the wellbeing of his patients, and it shows! He was honored to be chosen as one of Milwaukee Magazine’s Top Dentists of Milwaukee in 2003, 2009, and 2016. Additionally, he has been recognized in both America’s Top Dentists and Milwaukee’s Lifestyle Magazine. Thanks to his countless hours of continuing education and his memberships in organizations like the American Dental Association, he is able to provide his patients the most comfortable, effective care with state-of-the-art technology and advanced dental techniques. He is truly and expert at restorative dental procedures like dental crowns, so feel free to contact him via his website or at (414) 543-5432.