At Sapphire Dental Centre, we know that dental crowns are an excellent solution for restoring damaged or weakened teeth. Whether you’ve had a crown placed for a cracked tooth, after a root canal, or for cosmetic purposes, you want to make sure it lasts as long as possible. But how long do dental crowns really last, and what can you do to ensure they remain in top shape?
In this blog, we’ll answer these questions and share some expert tips on how to care for your dental crowns to maximize their lifespan. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know!
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
The lifespan of a dental crown can vary depending on the materials used, how well you care for it, and your overall oral habits. On average, dental crowns last between 10 to 15 years. However, some crowns can last even longer—up to 20 years or more—if properly maintained.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the longevity of different types of crowns:
- Porcelain Crowns: Typically last between 10 and 15 years, but they are highly durable and provide a natural-looking finish.
- Metal Crowns (Gold or Other Alloys): Known for their strength, metal crowns can last up to 20 years or more with proper care.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns: These crowns combine the strength of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain, lasting around 10 to 15 years.
- Resin Crowns: These tend to wear out faster and may last between 5 to 10 years.
While crowns are long-lasting, it’s essential to take steps to preserve their integrity and functionality.
Tips to Make Your Dental Crowns Last Longer
Here are some essential tips to help you maximize the lifespan of your dental crowns:
1. Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene
Just like your natural teeth, crowns require good oral hygiene to remain in optimal condition. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove food particles and plaque buildup. Plaque can lead to gum disease, which can damage the area around your crown.
2. Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods
Dental crowns, while durable, are still susceptible to wear and tear. To protect your crown, try to avoid eating excessively hard or sticky foods such as:
- Ice
- Hard candy
- Caramel
- Nuts
- Chewing gum
These foods can put extra pressure on your crown or even cause it to crack or dislodge. If you must eat harder foods, try to bite with your back teeth to reduce stress on the crowned tooth.
3. Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools
It’s tempting to use your teeth to open bottles, tear packaging, or bite into tough objects, but doing so can damage your crown. Avoid using your teeth as tools to prevent unnecessary strain or even breakage.
4. Wear a Nightguard if You Grind Your Teeth
If you grind or clench your teeth while sleeping (a condition known as bruxism), you could be causing unnecessary pressure on your crowns. Over time, this can wear down the crown material or cause it to crack. A custom nightguard, made by your dentist, can protect your crowns from the damaging effects of grinding. Let us know if you have concerns about bruxism, and we’ll be happy to provide a solution.
5. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Routine dental checkups are essential for maintaining the health of your crowns. During your visit, your dentist will inspect your crowns to ensure they’re still intact and functioning correctly. Early detection of any issues can prevent further damage and extend the life of your crowns. At Sapphire Dental Centre, we offer personalized care to help ensure that your crowns continue to serve you well for many years.
6. Be Mindful of Staining Foods and Drinks
While porcelain crowns are resistant to staining, the surrounding natural teeth can become discolored over time, making the crown look less seamless. To keep your smile looking vibrant, limit your consumption of stain-causing foods and drinks such as:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Red wine
- Berries
If you do consume these items, rinse your mouth with water afterward or brush your teeth to reduce the risk of staining.
7. Address Issues Promptly
If you notice any discomfort, sensitivity, or changes in your dental crown, don’t wait to seek help. Prompt attention to issues such as loosening or chipping can prevent more extensive damage and save you from having to replace the entire crown. If you experience pain around the crowned tooth or if the crown feels loose, contact us right away to schedule an appointment.
Dental crowns are an excellent investment in your oral health, but like any dental restoration, they require attention and care. With proper maintenance, your crowns can last many years, keeping your smile healthy, functional, and beautiful.
At Sapphire Dental Centre, we’re here to help you take care of your dental crowns and provide expert advice to keep your teeth in great shape. If you have any questions about caring for your crowns or if you need a consultation, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to ensure that your smile lasts a lifetime!