How Long Do Dental Crowns Last and When to Replace Them
Understanding How Long Dental Crowns Last and When to Replace Them
Dental crowns are important solutions for restoring the look and functionality of damaged teeth. But unfortunately, they won’t last forever. Signature Smiles Dentistry provides our patients in Parker, CO, with dental crown care tips so they can get the most out of their treatment. We specialize in delivering top-notch dental care, including expertly crafted crowns. Our team can help you protect a cracked tooth, replace an old crown, or simply enhance your smile. This blog will highlight everything you should know about the lifespan of dental crowns, when to replace a crown, and how to maximize a crown’s durability.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a custom-made “cap” that we can place over a tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. Our team often recommends crowns to protect weak teeth, cover dental implants, or support large fillings. Dental crowns are made from materials like porcelain, ceramic, metal, or resin. Therefore, we can carefully match them to the natural color of your teeth to provide a seamless look. These restorations are sturdy, but they have a limited lifespan and require proper maintenance.
The Lifespan and Replacement Timeline for Dental Crowns
Among the most common questions we get is, “How long do dental crowns last?” On average, dental crowns last between 10 and 15 years, but you can prolong that period with excellent oral hygiene and care. A dental crown’s lifespan depends on several factors, including its material and how well you protect it. Porcelain and ceramic crowns tend to be more aesthetically pleasing but may not last as long as metal crowns. Composite resin crowns typically have the shortest lifespan. Knowing how long your crowns will last can help you stay ahead of dental issues.
How to Extend the Life of Your Dental Crowns
While dental crowns aren’t permanent, taking good care of them can significantly extend their lifespan. Follow these dental crown care tips to keep your crowns in excellent condition for as long as possible:
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene – Brush twice a day and floss daily to keep your teeth and crowns free of plaque.
- Avoid Bad Habits – Steer clear of chewing on ice, hard candy, or other objects that could chip or wear down your crowns.
- Wear a Mouthguard – If you grind your teeth or play contact sports, wear a mouthguard to protect your crowns from damage.
- Schedule Regular Dental Checkups – Be sure to visit our team every six months for professional cleanings, crown inspections, and other dental services.
Signs Your Dental Crowns Need Replacement
The sooner you address any crown problems or imperfections, the more likely you are to prevent further complications to your natural teeth. Signs your dental crown needs replacement include:
- Visible Wear or Cracking – Chips, cracks, or worn-down areas on your crown are clear indicators that it’s time to replace it.
- Discomfort or Pain – If your crown feels loose or causes pain when chewing, it may no longer fit properly.
- Gum Recession – A receding gumline can reveal the edges of a crown, increasing the risk of damage or decay.
- Changes in Bite Alignment – If your dental crown no longer feels aligned with your bite, it could be wearing out.
The Replacement Process: What to Expect
If you need to replace an old dental crown, you should understand the process. It’s one of our dental specialties at Signature Smiles Dentistry, so we’re happy to provide a step-by-step breakdown before your replacement procedure. You can expect:
- Initial Evaluation – Your dentist will examine your crown and determine whether replacement is necessary.
- Old Crown Removal – We’ll carefully remove your old crown to assess the underlying tooth.
- Preparation and Impressions – Our team will reshape the old tooth and take impressions for the new crown.
- Temporary Crown Placement – We’ll place a temporary crown on your tooth until a permanent crown is ready.
- Final Placement – Once your custom crown is ready, we’ll securely bond it to your tooth.
Rely on the Signature Smiles Dentistry Team
Signature Smiles Dentistry has years of experience using cutting-edge technology to deliver exceptional dental care. Our team takes pride in creating dental crowns that are as durable as they are natural-looking. We can even combine them with cosmetic dentistry services. When you choose us, you’ll benefit from personalized care, high-quality materials, and a commitment to maintaining your oral health.
Contact Our Specialists in Parker, CO, Today
If you’re concerned about the lifespan of your dental crowns or unsure when to replace a crown, let Signature Smiles Dentistry help. We’re dedicated to helping our patients in Parker, CO, maintain great smiles, so contact us today to schedule a consultation.