If you need a dental crown in Topsham, you might be wondering how long you can expect the restoration to last. That’s understandable – the longevity of something can tell you a lot about its cost-effectiveness and quality! Fortunately, dental crowns are built to last, so you likely won’t have to worry about it breaking within months of your treatment.
That said, certain habits can speed up – or slow down – your crown’s “aging process.” Keep reading to learn how to get the most out of your new restoration!
Factors That Influence Your Crown’s Lifespan
Generally speaking, dental crowns last for 15 years or more. That’s assuming, however, that you take care of it properly. This largely means building up some habits and doing your best to avoid others. Here’s what you should know:
- Bruxism (a.k.a. teeth grinding and clenching) can damage or wear down your crown. Some patients do this habit out of nervousness, but others unknowingly grind their teeth at night! If you suspect you have bruxism, ask your dentist about a nightguard.
- Chewing on objects that aren’t meant for eating can also cause premature wear – or a dental emergency. Ice, pencils, packaging, and bottlecaps are a few examples of items your teeth shouldn’t touch.
- Brushing and flossing your teeth on a regular basis is important for preventing cavities and gum disease. These oral conditions can weaken the pearly white underneath your crown, destabilizing the restoration and making it fall out.
- On a similar note, tobacco usage and heavy alcohol consumption increases your risk of developing oral conditions, so it’s best to avoid these habits as much as possible.
- If you play an intense sport, be sure to wear a mouthguard to protect your crown – and your smile – from heavy impacts.
When to Replace Your Crown
It makes sense to be focused on the longevity of your dental crown, but it’s also important to know when it might need replaced. A crown that overstays its welcome can cause discomfort and won’t be an effective shield for the tooth underneath. Here’s what you should watch out for:
- Oral pain or tooth sensitivity
- Visible cracks, chips, or other damage to the crown
- A loose, wiggly, or shifting crown
- Gum recession
- Discoloration – if you’re not happy with how your crown looks, it’s time for a swap
All things considered, a dental crown is a worthwhile investment that should last you for many years to come. By taking care of it and keeping an eye out for damaging habits and signs of wear, you can enjoy the impressive durability of this restoration!
About the Author
Dr. Yanling “Lina” Yue has an artistic background that enables her to craft beautiful dental restorations for her patients. She understands the importance of stunning, long-lasting dental work, and would be happy to provide you with a quality crown! To ask Dr. Yue questions about dental crown maintenance, contact her office at 207-729-3911.