Building Confidence With Dental Beauty

Dental crowns have a long average lifespan. The type of material used in the construction of the crown greatly influences its longevity. On one end of the spectrum are crowns made from new ceramic materials such as zirconia, which can last 10–15 years. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns typically last 5–15 years.

Indeed, the type of material is the primary factor when it comes to the longevity of dental crowns. However, there are a few things you can do to extend the life of these dental restorations.

1. Make Oral Hygiene a Priority

Always practice good oral hygiene, and keep the area around the dental crowns, especially the gumline, clean. You should also keep up with a regular schedule for professional cleaning. Any build-up of plaque and tartar provides the perfect environment for bacteria. Infections and diseases resulting from these bacteria can greatly shorten the life of the crowns.

2. Prevent Cracks 

Biting down on hard objects, such as nails, will make your dental crowns more susceptible to cracks, reducing their lifespan. Similarly, you will want to avoid, or otherwise be extra cautious when eating, chewy steak, hard candies, and other hard foods. 

Your nails may not be as hard as you think, but biting on them with your dental crowns may cause some damage. Also, avoid using your teeth as a tool to open packages and bottles to reduce the risk of cracking your crowns.

3. Wear Protective Gear

If you grind your teeth, have your dentist fit a night guard or splint for you. Grinding your teeth and clenching your jaw can damage your dental crowns, and these devices help to protect the crowns from this impact.

Similarly, get a mouthguard if you actively play contact sports and ensure you always wear it when you are playing. Injuries to the face can otherwise loosen or crack your dental crowns, but the mouthguard will effectively absorb the shock and protect your teeth.

4. Regular Visits to the Dentist

Your dentist will share a schedule for visits after the initial fitting of your dental crowns. Be deliberate about not missing these appointments as they are crucial to the longevity of your dental restorations. In addition to professional cleaning, the dentist will check for and act fast to resolve any potential problems before they become serious. Such include a loose fit and signs of dental cavities and decay.

While dental crowns may not last forever, they have a significant lifespan. With proper at-home care and with the help of your dentist, as outlined, you can extend their lifespan and continue to enjoy your dental crowns for longer. 

Contact a dentistry clinic to learn more.