You might think you’re in the clear after you get a dental crown. After all, this “cap” restores your tooth’s original looks and protects it from harmful outside forces. However, you should remember your new prosthetic won’t last forever. Even the best models stop working with enough time. Since that’s the case, you’ll want to get as much out of your restoration as possible. Luckily, your Attleboro dentist can help. Read on to learn the average dental crown lifespan, signs you need a replacement, and essential crown care tips.
How Long Does the Average Crown Last?
On average, porcelain crowns can last between 5 to 15 years. However, their longevity is ultimately determined by how well they’re maintained. Crowns naturally weaken and wear over time, but certain lifestyles can accelerate the process.
When well-maintained, though, these prosthetics can last 25 to 30 years. Still, that only applies when the underlying tooth is healthy and strong. At some point, your dentist may need to remove the crown to treat tooth decay beneath it.
When Will I Know to Replace One?
Besides when it fully wears out, a porcelain crown needs replacement if it cracks or chips. Otherwise, there’s a good chance a tooth infection will occur beneath its porcelain layer. After all, a damaged crown can allow harmful oral bacteria to reach your tooth’s inner nerves.
A crown could fail, chip, or crack earlier than expected due to poor fitting or an imbalanced bite. Most of the time, though, such damage is caused by accidents or hard impacts from daily living.
Dental Crown Care Tips
- Practice Good Dental Hygiene: As you normally would, brush your teeth twice daily, floss once daily, and rinse with mouthwash as needed. Pay attention to the area around your crown when you do these things, too, especially the gumline.
- Don’t Chew Hard Things: Biting things like fingernails, candy, or ice will likely damage your porcelain crown and natural teeth.
- Avoid Teeth-Grinding: Whether conscious or unconscious, teeth-grinding will cause porcelain crowns to crack or chip. As such, you may want to get a personalized mouthguard.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Make sure to visit your local dental practice every six months for checkups and cleanings. That way, your dentist can examine your crown(s) for signs of cavities, gaps, trauma, or decay.
In the end, you’ll keep your crown for a good while so long as you care for it. That said, remember the tips above so you can enjoy its full lifespan.
About the Practice
Attleboro Dental Group is based in North Attleborough, MA. As led by its several excellent dentists, the practice strives to meet all its patients’ smile needs. Therefore, it offers preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, not to mention emergency dental treatments. You can count on the Attleboro team whether you need a cleaning, in-house implant placement, or a dental crown. For more information or to book an appointment, you can reach them at their website or by phone at (774)-331-0260.