Getting a dental crown is a big decision. You’re curious about knowing how long you can use it before it needs a replacement. Your dentist in Southeast Edmonton can clarify the lifespan of your crown and offer tips on ensuring its longevity.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crowns in South Edmonton is like a cap that covers your tooth. It is placed on a damaged or weakened tooth to protect it. The crown looks and works just like your natural tooth. Many people get crowns to protect broken teeth, cover large cavities, and protect the tooth after a root canal.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Usually Last?
Most dental crowns last between 5 and 15 years. If you take care of them, some crowns can last 25 years or longer. A dental crown’s longevity depends on many factors. These include the material used for the crown, its location in the mouth, and how well you take care of it.
Your dentist will help you choose the best crowns for your needs. The location matters too. Crowns placed on your back teeth experience more chewing pressure and may wear out faster than those placed on your front teeth.
Types of Dental Crowns and Their Lifespan
Different materials last for different amounts of time. Here’s what you need to know:
| Crown Type | Average Lifespan | Best For |
| Porcelain | 5-15 years | Front teeth (looks natural) |
| Ceramic | 5-15 years | People with metal allergies |
| Metal (Gold/Silver) | 20+ years | Back teeth (very strong) |
| Porcelain-fused-to-metal | 10-15 years | Both front and back teeth |
| Zirconia | 10-15 years | Strong and looks good |
Metal crowns last the longest because they’re very strong. But many people don’t like how they look. Porcelain crowns look more natural but may chip easily.
What Makes Crowns Wear Out?
Several things can make your crown wear out faster:
- Grinding your teeth puts extra pressure on crowns.
- Chewing hard foods such as ice, hard candy, and nuts can crack crowns
- Bad dental care allows decay to form underneath the crown due to a lack of brushing.
- Falls or sports injuries can damage crowns.
- Gum disease can weaken the tooth under the crown.
Signs Crown Needs Replacement
Your dentist near you should be called if you experience these issues.
- Pain or sensitivity: If your crowned tooth hurts when you eat or drink, there might be something wrong.
- Loose Crown: If a crown feels loose or moves, seek immediate help.
- Visible damage: If you see chips or cracks in your crown, you will need a replacement.
- Gum problems: Redness, swelling, or bleeding around the crown are cause for concern.
- Bad taste or smell: This could mean decay under the crown.
Don’t wait if you see these signs. Contact a dentist right away to prevent bigger problems.
How to Make Your Crown Last Longer
Want your crown to last as long as possible? Follow these simple tips:
- Make sure to brush your teeth at least twice every day. Clean around the crown carefully.
- Make it a habit to floss every day. Flossing helps remove food particles and bacteria that can cause tooth decay along the gum line.
- Visit your dentist regularly. Get checkups every six months. Your dentist can spot problems early.
- It is advised to wear mouth guards at night to control the teeth-grinding habit.
- Do not chew ice, eat hard sweets, or use your teeth inappropriately.
- Don’t bite your nails or chew on pens.
The Bottom Line
Dental crowns are a great way to save damaged teeth. With proper care, your crown can last many years. Again, it all depends on the material, your usage, and your maintenance of it.
Protect Your Damaged Teeth with a Dental Crown
At South Edmonton Common Dental Choice, we can protect and restore damaged teeth with dental crowns. Our dentist will place a dental crown to strengthen a tooth and improve chewing ability.
Call us to set your appointment today.
