How Long Does a Dental Crown Last?

How Long Does a Dental Crown Last?

Dental crowns are a popular solution for restoring the function and appearance of damaged teeth. As there are many ways to damage your teeth, there are plenty of reasons you may need a dental crown. Whether you need a dental crown due to decay, injury or for cosmetic reasons, they play a vital role in helping us manage our dental health.

As experts in restorative dentistry, our team at Ringway Dental are often asked about dental crowns – and how long they last. We’ve decided to create this guide for those who may be thinking about dental crowns, and whether they’re really worth the investment.

How Long Does a Dental Crown Last?

The longevity of a dental crown depends on a variety of factors. Typically, a well-made and well-cared-for crown can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, and sometimes even longer. The lifespan of a crown is influenced by the material it’s made of, the precision of its fit, the quality of the underlying tooth structure, and how well it’s maintained.

What Affects the Longevity of a Crown?

Several factors contribute to how long a dental crown will last. Some of these involve more preliminary considerations such as which material the crown is made from and how well it is fitted, whilst other longevity factors rely on the patient’s dedication to aftercare and attending follow-up appointments.

Materials

The material used for the crown plays a crucial role in its durability. Dental crowns can be made from various materials including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of these. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are popular for their natural, more subtle, appearance, whilst metal crowns are often selected for their strength and durability.

Techniques

The techniques used in the preparation and placement of the crown will evidently impact its lifespan. At Ringway Dental, we use state-of-the-art techniques and technology to ensure that each crown is precisely fitted. A well-fitted crown is less likely to become loose or suffer wear and tear over time, and we wouldn’t settle for anything less for our patients.

Aftercare by Patient and Follow-Up Appointments

How well a patient cares for their crown is probably one of the most critical factors that can help to determine its longevity. Maintaining an excellent level of oral hygiene and ensuring you attend regular dental check-ups are both essential. Attending these regular check-ups is not only going to support the longevity of your crown, but will also allow your dental professional to examine and check for any other concerns that could impact your overall dental wellbeing.

How to Make Your Crown Last Longer

Extending the life of your dental crown involves a few key aftercare techniques. The more you stick with these habits, the longer your crown should last.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Regular brushing and flossing help prevent decay and gum disease, which can compromise how securely your crown fits.

Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods: Chewing on hard objects like ice or sweets can damage the crown.

Wear a Night Guard If You Grind Your Teeth: Grinding can wear down the crown prematurely, so wearing a guard can protect it. If you think you grind your teeth at night – which is also known as bruxism – make sure you talk to your dentist before having a dental crown fitted. It’s best if we can offer the right support as soon as possible.

Regular Dental Visits: Routine check-ups allow your dentist to monitor the condition of your crown and address any concerns as they arise. The minimum recommendation between dental visits is 6 months, though with a dental crown your dentist may recommend seeing you on a more regular basis to begin with.

Signs of Wear and Time to Replace

Knowing when it’s time to replace a dental crown is important. Here are some signs that your crown may be nearing the end of its lifespan:

Visible Wear or Damage: If you notice chips, cracks, or significant wear on the crown, it’s time for a check-up.

Pain or Discomfort: Pain around the crowned tooth could indicate issues like decay or a poor fit. If you feel like the complaint is due to a poor fit, it may be worth seeing an alternative dentist who can independently examine the work done.

Lasting Dental Crowns by Ringway Dental

Dental crowns are not permanent, but they can last a considerable amount of time with proper care and attention. At Ringway Dental, we not only focus on providing high-quality crowns but also on educating our patients about proper aftercare to ensure their investment stands the test of time.

If you have a dental crown or are considering getting one, and you want it to last as long as possible, come visit us at Ringway Dental. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the best care and advice for maintaining your dental health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. You can reach us on 0161 437 2029.

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