Dental crowns are a common dental restoration used to protect and strengthen damaged teeth. They are essentially made of materials such as porcelain or ceramic, and are custom-made to fit over the damaged tooth, covering it completely.
In this blog, we will discuss the Factors that can affect the lifespan of dental crowns, average lifespan of dental crowns, signs of a failing dental crown, and what to do if a dental crown fails.
Factors for the lifespan of dental crowns
The lifespan of a dental crown can be affected by several factors. These include the material used to create the crown, the quality of the crown’s fabrication, the placement and care of the crown, the patient’s oral hygiene habits, and the patient’s lifestyle factors.
- Material used to create the crown: Different materials have different strengths and durability levels. For example, ceramic crowns tend to be more fragile than metal or porcelain crowns.
- Quality of the crown’s fabrication: Dental crowns are usually fabricated in a dental laboratory by trained professionals. The quality of the fabrication process can affect the durability of the crown. It is important to choose a reputable dental lab, such as dental labs NYC, that uses high-quality materials and equipment.
- Placement and care of the crown: Proper placement and care of the crown can greatly affect its lifespan. If the crown is not placed correctly or is not properly cared for, it may become damaged or loose, which can cause it to fail prematurely.
- Patient’s oral hygiene habits: Good oral hygiene habits, such as regular flossing and brushing, can help prolong the lifespan of a dental crown. Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to tooth decay or gum disease, which can damage the crown and cause it to fail.
- Patient’s lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle factors, such as grinding or clenching of teeth, can put extra stress on the dental crown, leading to premature failure. It is important to address these lifestyle factors with the dentist to avoid damage to the crown.
Average lifespan of dental crowns
The lifespan of dental crowns can vary on the type of crown and the factors mentioned above. Some common types of dental crowns and their average lifespans are:
- Porcelain fused to metal: 10-15 years
- All-ceramic or all-porcelain: 10-15 years
- Gold: 20-30 years
Research has also shown that the lifespan of dental crowns can be affected by factors such as the patient’s age, the location of the crown in the mouth, and the amount of stress placed on the crown.
Signs of a failing dental crown
There are several signs that a dental crown may be failing. These include sensitivity to hot or cold, pain when biting down, visible damage to the crown, gum inflammation around the crown, and a bad taste or odor in the mouth. If you experience any of the symptoms, contacting your dentist as soon as possible is critical.
What to do if a dental crown fails
If a dental crown fails, it is important to take actions immediately to prevent any further damage or discomfort.
- Contact your dentist: As soon as you notice any signs of a failing dental crown, such as sensitivity or pain, contact your dentist to schedule an appointment.
- Assess the damage: During your dental appointment, your dentist will examine the tooth and the crown to determine the extent of the damage. In some cases, the crown may be able to be repaired, while in other cases, it may need to be replaced.
- Repair or replace the crown: Depending on the extent of the damage, your dentist may be able to repair the crown by adding material to the affected area or by re-cementing the crown onto the tooth. However, if the damage is severe, the crown may need to be replaced entirely.
- Consider cost considerations: The cost of repairing or replacing a dental crown can vary on the type of crown and the extent of the damage. It is important to discuss cost considerations with your dentist before proceeding with any treatment.
Take steps to prevent future damage: Once the crown has been repaired or replaced, it is important to take steps to prevent future damage. This includes practicing good oral hygiene habits, avoiding hard or sticky foods, and addressing any lifestyle factors that may put extra stress on the crown, such as teeth grinding.
Overall, if a dental crown fails, it is important to take immediate action to prevent any further damage or discomfort. By contacting your dentist and taking steps to repair or replace the crown, you can ensure a healthy and strong smile for years to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dental crowns are an important dental restoration that can protect and strengthen damaged teeth. The lifespan of a dental crown can depend on several factors, but with proper care, it can last for many years. If you experience any signs of a failing dental crown, it is important to contact your dentist as soon as possible. To ensure high-quality crowns, searching reputable “dental crown labs near me”, such as dental labs NYC is recommended. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits and addressing any lifestyle factors that may put extra stress on the crown can also help prolong its lifespan. By caring for your dental crowns, you can ensure a healthy and strong smile for years.
