A replacement dental crown can do wonders when there’s a severely damaged or missing tooth. With its placement, all your normal functions and smile aesthetics can be restored. Still, you’d like to know how long you can expect the crown to last. As you continue reading, a dentist in Collinsville provides the answer and explains what you can do to extend the life of your restoration!
The Typical Longevity of a Dental Crown
The average lifespan of a crown is from five to 15 years. However, it’s not uncommon for the restoration to last 20 years or longer. One of the major keys to its longevity is how well patients take care of it.
Tips for Extending the Life of Your Dental Crown
Practicing excellent dental hygiene is at the top of the list of priorities. It should include brushing and flossing at least two times a day to control the growth of oral bacteria. Crafted from porcelain, crowns aren’t subject to decay. Still, bacteria growth poses an oral health threat, as there is live tissue under the crown that is very much vulnerable to infection.
Additionally, you should make it a habit to maintain six-month visits to your dentist. You’ll receive a thorough cleaning and examination at each appointment. Therefore, if any issues are spotted with your crown or any other aspect of your oral health, they can be addressed in a timely fashion.
Bad Habits to Avoid
Along with adhering to the above guidelines, be sure to avoid the following:
- Teeth grinding – Also called bruxism, teeth grinding can place immense pressure on a crown, which can cause it to crack or dislodge. A damaged or poorly fitting restoration can also allow harmful bacteria to seep beneath the tooth and cause an infection.
- Fingernail biting – Because crowns aren’t designed to bite into fingernails, doing so can lead to a break and worse, a dental emergency.
- Consuming an abundance of sugar – Sugar attracts oral bacteria. Thus, the more you consume, the greater the chances of oral health issues developing.
The Power is in Your Hands
You should feel empowered in knowing that your lifestyle choices and habits can extend your dental crown lifespan. That means you have control of your destiny. By implementing what you’ve learned, you can enjoy a set of teeth that perform their duties, create a beautiful smile and leave you feeling more confident!
About the Author
A graduate of the Medical College of Virginia, Dr. Michael Lavinder has over 40 years of experience in the dental world. Throughout his career, he has maintained a commitment to learning, taking over 900 hours of continuing education to stay abreast of the latest tools and techniques in dentistry. Dr. Lavinder restores smiles by placing dental crowns at Collinsville Dental Associates, and he can be reached for more information or to schedule a visit through his website.