How Long Will a Dental Crown Last?

A dental crown is used to restore teeth that are in bad shape. Oftentimes, they are needed for teeth that have become cracked, chipped or broken. Additionally, general dentists recommend them for teeth that have severely decayed due to an infection. While they are one of the most common dental restorations, many wonder how long they will last or if they are a permanent solution. 

The lifespan of a dental crown

Below is an overview of how long dental crowns last. There are a few factors that play into their lifespan, which are also discussed in depth.

Average

The average lifespan of a dental crown is anywhere from 5 to 25 years. When a child gets a dental crown, it is likely that they will require a replacement sometime during adulthood. However, if an adult gets a dental crown and takes the necessary steps to maintain it, they are not likely to need a replacement. 

Proper care and hygiene

With proper care and oral hygiene, both adult and children patients can ensure that their dental crowns last a long time, if not forever. Some of the steps that can be taken include the following:

• Regular checkups with a general dentist
• Routine dental cleanings with a hygienist
• Daily flossing and brushing
• If bruxism is an issue, the use of a nightguard may be helpful
• Avoiding chewy or extremely hard foods that could loosen the dental crown

Some people may have specific recommendations to follow regarding making dental crowns last. Working with a general dentist to understand any specific guidelines or tips can be helpful. 

Other factors

Another factor that will dictate how long a dental crown will last is the material that the crown is made of. General dentists work with dental labs that make crowns in many different materials. Outlined below are some of the most common material options.

• Ceramic: Ceramic dental crowns are very popular. They are white in color and extremely durable, making them a long-lasting restoration.
• Gold: While gold is a visible option, patients opt for it because it is such a strong material. Gold dental crowns are said to last a lifetime, with proper care.
• Metal alloys: A more affordable dental crown option is a metal alloy, which consists of many metal materials. These crowns are strong, however, they are silver in color.
• Composite resin: When a dental crown is made of composite resin, the lifespan is not likely to last as long. Composite resin is a white dental material that lasts for a couple of years but is prone to cracking and chipping.

Patients that undergo dental crown placement should be more careful with their mouths, meaning they should avoid physical activities that could put the mouth at risk. While dental crowns are meant to be a permanent restoration, they can and will chip, crack or break if a physical blow to the face takes place. 

Learn more today

Dental crowns are a great option for restoring teeth that are in bad shape. With proper care and oral hygiene, they can last a lifetime! Working with a general dentist to undergo routine cleanings and exams will also ensure that dental crowns of all types will last for many years. Any questions or concerns regarding dental crowns and their lifespan should be addressed by a general dentistry practice. Reach out today to learn more or to get started. 

Request an appointment here: https://bitterrootvalleydentalcare.com or call Bitterroot Valley Dental Care at (406) 625-0382 for an appointment in our Stevensville office.

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