There are a lot of things to consider when getting a dental crown, with aesthetics being a primary concern of many patients. This is understandable—if a tooth is visible when you smile, you want to ensure that your restoration looks natural and blends in with the rest of your teeth. Another important consideration is durability. Different types of crowns have different lifespans, with some lasting years longer than others.
The Purpose of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are used for a variety of purposes in dentistry. The most typical reason for needing a crown is if you have a cavity that is too large to be treated with a filling, inlay, or onlay. Crowns are also used to protect teeth after root canals, strengthen weak teeth, secure dental bridges, and restore teeth after dental trauma. When used in conjunction with a dental implant, a crown can replace a missing tooth.
Types of Dental Crowns
Here are the most common types of dental crowns and their expected lifespans:
- Ceramic Crowns, 10 to 15 years
- Ceramic crowns are the most natural looking crown, so they’re typically the best choice when restoring a front tooth. Not only do they match the color and size of your other teeth, they even capture the same luster as natural tooth enamel. Ceramic crowns are where the art and science of dentistry meet!
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns, 5 to 15 years
- The aesthetics of porcelain are combined with the strength of metal in this type of crown. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are prone to chipping, reducing their lifespan, and the metal edge can show along the gum line if the gums recede, which can be unsightly for a tooth that is visible when you smile.
- Gold and Base Metal Alloy Crowns, 20 to 40 years
- Gold and base metal alloy crowns have the longest lifespan of any crown, sometimes never needing replacement. The disadvantage of these crowns is their appearance; most people will only use them for molars that aren't visible when they smile.
Extending the Lifespan of Your Dental Crown
Good oral hygiene is essential for getting the most out of your dental crown. Brush twice a day for two minutes and floss at least once a day, then visit your dentist every six months for a comprehensive oral evaluation and dental cleaning. Although your dental crown cannot get cavities, the tooth structure beneath it is still vulnerable to decay. If a cavity develops under a crown, it must be removed and replaced with a new crown; in some situations, the tooth may need to be extracted and replaced with a bridge or dental implant.
You may want to consider getting a night guard to protect your crown if you grind your teeth or clench your jaw while sleeping. If you bite your nails, open packages with your teeth, or chew on ice, breaking these habits will help your crown last longer because this kind of stress can cause chips and fractures. With good care, your dental crown might last well beyond its expected lifespan!
Learn More About Dental Crowns
Do you have questions about dental crowns? Are you wondering which type of crown is best for you? Contact us today at 856-783-3777 to schedule an appointment for a consultation.