If you’ve ever had a root canal procedure or visited the dentist to treat severely decayed or damaged enamel, your provider likely recommended placing a dental crown. These tooth-shaped caps are cemented over injured teeth to allow you to continue using them normally while preventing further harm.
However, many people have questions about this treatment before proceeding, like how long these restorations usually last. If you need a dental crown and are wondering if it’ll be worth the investment, continue reading to learn more about what to expect!
What Are Dental Crowns Made From?
Historically, dentists repaired teeth with amalgam restorations that contained mixtures of metals strong enough to withstand the pressure of daily biting and chewing. Although these covers can indeed be incredibly durable, some patients develop allergies or sensitivity due to the different components. Not only that, but the dark metal materials can detract from your appearance or make your smile look dark or dirty.
As a result, most dentists today provide dental crowns made from resilient ceramic, which reflects light more naturally like enamel and can be customized to match your smile. Once your new tooth is cemented in place, you’ll have a beautifully restored grin with no one the wiser.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Usually Last?
Some patients assume that tooth-colored porcelain crowns won’t last as long as metallic restorations, so they hesitate to proceed with their proposed treatment plan. Thankfully, more contemporary materials often last just as long as their counterparts. For instance, they can often last 10 to 15+ years as long as they’re cared for correctly. However, the lifespan of your dental crown depends on more than the material it’s made from.
For example, caps placed over molars in the back of your mouth tend to sustain more pressure from biting and chewing, and might wear down faster than those covering front teeth. They can also be chipped, cracked, or stained if you eat too many hard, crunchy, or darkly toned foods, which may require repair or replacement.
How Can I Help Maintain My Dental Crown?
Thankfully, there are several things you can do to maintain your restoration and help elongate its lifespan, including:
- Implement a routine. Brushing and flossing twice daily prevents oral concerns, such as cavities and gum disease, which can affect the underlying tooth and cause its cap to fail.
- Watch what you eat. Avoid nuts, seeds, candies, taffy, and other hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could push or pull it out of place.
- Schedule routine checkups. Seeing your dentist every six months for an examination and cleaning allows them to monitor your condition and treat any areas of concern, such as a loose dental crown, before they become problematic.
If you still have questions about what to expect from your dental crown, having an honest discussion with your dentist can provide the information you seek!
Meet the Author
Dr. Vy Tran is passionate about helping families in Millersville build and maintain beautiful, healthy smiles. She earned her dental doctorate at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, and has since completed continuing education courses with various organizations, including the prestigious Pankey Institute. She offers a comprehensive menu of services, including tooth-colored dental crowns, to meet all your needs at one convenient location. You can request an appointment on the website or call (410) 729-9090.