Dental crowns can be used for a variety of cosmetic treatments. The purpose of a dental crown is to preserve the health of a decayed or damaged tooth, and a crown can also be used to correct misalignment and be used as part of root canal treatment.
The usefulness of dental crowns naturally raises the question of how long dental crowns last. There isn’t a straight answer to this question, typically because of the uses of a dental crown which are different to another.
A properly installed dental crown to go with strong oral hygiene results in a dental crown lasting a lifetime. But just how long do dental crowns last?
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last – The Factors
When a dental crown is placed, it is the responsibility of the patient to ensure that adequate care is taken for its longevity. Here are some of the key factors of dental crown longevity:
- The positioning of the teeth – is it at the back or the rear of the mouth?
- Do you need a partial or a full crown?
- How difficult or easy is the treatment to apply the crown?
- Does the tooth need to be replaced or fitted with the crown?
- Do you suffer from external oral health conditions that can damage the crown such as teeth grinding?
- How are you caring for your dental crown?
- Are there any harmful habits that you perform that could damage the crown?
- What crown material is being used as part of the treatment?
- Do you suffer from underlying gum disease?
A multitude of factors can determine how long do dental crowns last.
How Can The Dentist Ensure Crown Longevity?
It isn’t just the patient’s responsibility to look after the dental crown. The dentist also plays an important role. As part of dental crown treatment, the dentist needs to ensure that the materials used are of high quality, and the results are what the patient expects. Patients naturally expect dentists to deliver high-quality treatment.
Whilst the crown material is important, the installation of the dental crown is just as important. Dentists are well-versed in installing dental crowns, but even they could make mistakes. Therefore, it is essential that all procedures are successful and deliver what the patient expects.
How Can I Look After My Crown For Longevity?
The dentist will have done their bit to keep your dental crown strong, but now it’s your turn. Ensure that you carry out the required oral hygiene levels so that the crown remains healthy and doesn’t meet bacteria. Dental crowns are relatively low maintenance but must continue to receive the right attention so that the crowns remain strong.
Continue to brush and floss your teeth as part of your oral routine and keep the crown away from bacteria through mouthwash rinses.
If you’re seeking support with your dental crown, or you have any questions around how long do dental crowns last, consult your dentist for an appointment.
