A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a damaged tooth, restoring its original shape, size, strength, and appearance. These restorations serve as a protective covering for teeth that are decayed, broken, or severely worn down.
Understanding Crown Longevity
While dental crowns are designed as a long-term, fixed restoration, they are not truly “permanent” in the sense of lasting indefinitely. With proper care, dental crowns typically last between 5 and 15 years. Some high-quality crowns, particularly those made from certain materials and well-maintained, can even exceed 20 years. Their lifespan varies significantly based on several contributing factors.
Factors Influencing Crown Lifespan
The material used for a dental crown plays a significant role in its durability. Metal crowns, such as gold alloys, offer superior strength and can last over 20 years, often used for back teeth. Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns combine metal strength with porcelain aesthetics, typically lasting about 15 years. All-ceramic or porcelain crowns provide excellent aesthetics but may be more prone to chipping, lasting 10 to 15 years. Zirconia crowns, a strong ceramic, can last 10 to 20 years or longer.
Maintaining proper oral hygiene is important for crown longevity. Regular brushing and flossing prevent plaque and bacteria buildup around the crown’s margins, reducing the risk of decay in the underlying natural tooth and gum disease. Poor oral hygiene can lead to infection and decay, which may compromise the crown’s integrity and necessitate early replacement.
The forces exerted during biting and chewing also impact a crown’s lifespan. Habits like teeth grinding (bruxism) or clenching can place excessive stress on crowns, leading to chipping, cracking, or premature wear. Crowns on molars generally experience more chewing force and may have a different lifespan compared to those on front teeth. The skill of the dentist and the quality of the initial crown placement, including precise fitting and bonding, also contribute to its long-term success.
Recognizing When a Crown Needs Attention
Several indicators can suggest a dental crown may require professional attention. Pain or sensitivity, particularly to hot or cold temperatures or pressure when biting, can signal an issue with the crown or the tooth beneath it. Visible damage, such as chipping, cracking, or fractures, indicates compromised integrity.
A loose crown suggests weakening bonding or decay underneath. Other signs include visible wear or a noticeable change in your bite. Gum inflammation, redness, or recession around the crowned tooth can signal gum disease or a poorly fitting crown.
For porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, a dark line near the gum line might become visible as gums recede, though this is often an aesthetic concern. The development of tooth decay underneath the crown, sometimes indicated by a foul taste, persistent bad breath, or dark spots, requires immediate dental evaluation.
Caring for Your Crown
Maximizing the lifespan of a dental crown involves consistent care and mindful habits. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is fundamental, including brushing your teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Daily flossing is also important to remove plaque and food particles from around the crown and along the gum line, preventing decay and gum disease. Incorporating an antibacterial mouthwash can further help reduce bacteria and maintain a healthy oral environment.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are important for monitoring the crown’s condition and addressing any potential issues early. Certain foods should be avoided to protect your crown; these include hard items like ice, nuts, or hard candies that can chip or crack the crown. Sticky or chewy foods, such as caramels or taffy, can potentially dislodge the crown.
If you grind or clench your teeth, wearing a custom nightguard can protect your crown from excessive force and wear during sleep. Avoiding habits like using your teeth to open packages or biting on non-food items also helps preserve the crown’s integrity.