Dental crowns and bridges are very common dental restorations that can really change your life if you have deteriorated, cracked or broken teeth. One of the most frequently asked questions dentists get asked is how long does a crown actually last? To help you better understand just how durable these restorations are, here’s everything you need to know about the longevity of dental crowns and what you can do to ensure the best, long-lasting results.
What are dental crowns?
Dental crowns are a type of dental restoration that is used to restore weakened or broken teeth. A crown is a strong, protective cap that is snugly fitted over the tooth. This is why crowns are also referred to as ‘tooth caps’. During the treatment, they are colour-matched so that they blend perfectly with the neighbouring teeth.
Dental bridges, on the other hand, are a long term option when you are missing teeth. They can replace a single tooth or multiple teeth.
Both procedures are simple and minimally invasive. Before proceeding, our dentists will take x-rays and impressions of your teeth to determine the right course of action for your needs.
Do crowns last forever?
Crowns are not designed to be permanent, so for most patients they simply cannot last forever. They may be able to last a lifetime depending on a patient’s age, health and how well the crown is maintained. With care and maintenance, a crown can last decades before needing to be professionally replaced by a dentist.
How long should a crown last?
Typically, crowns should be able to last 10-15 years without any issues. By taking the right care and maintenance measures, a well looked after crown may last 20 years or even longer!
What Factors Affect A Dental Crown’s Lifespan?
There are various factors that affect the longevity of dental crowns.
- Lifestyle
Habits such as smoking can stain crowns (as well as your natural teeth and any other restoration) and teeth grinding can cause them to wear over time. - Health and Oral Hygiene
The condition of the tooth underneath the crown, health conditions, oral hygiene and the way the crown is treated post-placement can affect its lifespan. Keeping up with your routine dental check-ups is a must. - Location of the Crown
Whether a crown is placed on a front or back tooth can affect its longevity as your back teeth used for chewing may be more susceptible to wear over time. - Crown Materials
Dental crowns can be made from different materials such as gold, porcelain and resin. All are safe and long-lasting but some may be more durable than others.
Patients concerned with questions such as how often do crowns fall out or become loose will be pleased to know that while these situations can happen, they are not common especially when a crown is new. It is more likely to occur towards the end of a dental crown’s lifespan or after sustaining some wear or damage.
Schedule A Dental Crown Consultation – Dentists Of Ivanhoe
If you have a weakened or broken tooth and are exploring your dental restoration options, a crown may be a suitable solution for you. To learn more about dental crowns and alternatives, schedule an appointment with our dentists in Ivanhoe today.
