Dental crowns are a popular form of dental restoration used to restore teeth to their original shape and size. Dental crowns also protect from further damage. This article provides an ultimate guide to dental crowns, including information on how long they typically last and aims to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of the longevity and maintenance requirements of dental crowns. Readers will understand what factors contribute to the lifespan of a dental crown, as well as tips for prolonging its life expectancy.
In addition, readers will learn about the options for replacing failed crowns and how to prevent future failure.
What Is A Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a type of dental restoration that fits over the top of a tooth, providing the tooth with extra protection and strength. Crowns are used to restore the shape, size, and appearance of teeth that have been damaged or decayed. They can also hold a dental bridge in place or protect a weak tooth from breaking.
Crowns can be made from porcelain, gold, or metal alloys and customised for each month. Root canal therapy is often needed before placing a permanent dental crown because the procedure removes any infection that may have been present in the root of the tooth.
After the root canal therapy is complete, an impression will be taken and sent to a dental lab or made in-house, where they will create the custom-made crown specifically designed for your smile. Once your new crown is ready, you will return it to your dentist, who will check it for the proper fit before permanently cementing it.
To ensure your new crown lasts as long as possible, it’s essential to follow good oral hygiene habits like regular brushing and flossing and professional cleanings at least twice per year. This will help prevent decay around the margins of your crown and keep your smile healthy for years.
By taking good care of your teeth with regular checkups and cleanings, you can maximize the life of your dental crowns to continue enjoying beautiful smiles for many years. Next, we’ll explore what affects the lifespan of a dental crown so you can make sure yours lasts for many years to come.
What Affects The Lifespan Of A Dental Crown?
Have you ever wondered how long a dental crown can last?
Dental crowns are permanent fixtures placed over existing teeth or implants, lasting many years if cared for properly.
While the longevity of a dental crown depends on the type of crown used, the dentist’s skill in placing it, and how well it is taken care of at home, some key factors affect the lifespan of a dental crown.
The materials used to make a crown can affect its longevity. Metal crowns such as gold or stainless steel are strong but may wear down natural teeth over time. Porcelain fused to metal (PFM) and all-porcelain crowns look more like natural teeth but can chip or fracture easily. Zirconia is more robust than porcelain but is less aesthetically pleasing than PFM. Each type of material has advantages and disadvantages that should be discussed with your dentist before selecting one.
The dentist’s skill in preparing the tooth for a crown and placing the restoration also affects its longevity. An insufficiently prepared tooth may result in bacteria entering beneath the crown, leading to decay or losing the restoration retention, causing it to become loose or fall off entirely. If done correctly, a well-fitted restoration should prevent bacteria from entering between this gap and protect against decay which will help prolong its life expectancy.
The condition of the underlying tooth structure plays a vital role in how long a dental crown will last too; if there is decay or weakened enamel beneath, the tooth may not be able to support the restoration for very long. Regular checkups at your dentist’s office will help reveal any issues early on so they can be addressed promptly before they damage your dental work.
Caring for your dental restoration properly is essential to ensure its longevity; brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once daily will help remove plaque and food debris buildup from around your dental work – keeping it looking great and helping it last longer!
Caring For Your Dental Crown
Caring for your dental crown is essential to preserving its lifespan and ensuring your entire tooth stays healthy. Proper care of your dental crown will depend on the type of crown you have, as well as your overall oral hygiene habits.
Here are some tips for caring for your dental crown:
- Brush and floss twice a day: Brushing and flossing regularly helps remove plaque from around the crown, which can prevent decay and other damage.
- Make regular dental checkups: Visiting the dentist for regular checkups is essential for keeping an eye on the condition of your dental crown. The dentist can help identify potential problems before they become more serious.
- Maintain good oral hygiene habits: Good oral hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing regularly, avoiding sugary foods, and using mouthwash can help keep your dental crown in top condition.
- Get regular dental appointments: You must visit the dentist regularly to ensure your crown is still in good shape. Regular checkups will allow the dentist to spot signs indicating it needs replacing or repairing.
From there, it’s essential to watch out for signs that suggest a need for replacement or repair of the dental crown. These may include pain or discomfort when chewing food, discolouration of the crown or surrounding teeth, or visible cracks in the material of the crown itself.
Signs That Your Dental Crown Needs To Be Replaced
The durability of a dental crown is an essential factor to consider when deciding on the best option for your smile. While a well-made crown can last many years, some warning signs should prompt you to visit your dentist for a replacement. Understanding what to look for can help ensure your smile remains healthy and beautiful.
The first sign that your dental crown may need to be replaced is damage or failure of the crown itself. If you notice any cracks or chips in the material, it’s essential to have it checked by a professional as soon as possible.
Additionally, if you experience any pain or discomfort around the crowned tooth, this could be caused by decay or a broken tooth underneath the crown.
Another sign that it may be time to replace your dental crown is if it starts to feel loose during daily activities such as eating and talking. This could indicate that something has shifted in the area and needs to be corrected – leaving an open crown too long can lead to further damage and infection. Additionally, avoiding sticky foods while wearing a dental crown will help keep its shape intact and reduce pressure on the surrounding teeth.
Lastly, metal dental crowns tend to have more excellent durability than those made with porcelain materials, but any material can wear down over time and need replacing. Regular visits with your dentist will ensure your new smile is functioning properly and looking its best for years to come. The next step in achieving optimal oral health is learning about alternatives for dental crowns.
Alternatives To Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are a popular solution among dental professionals when restoring teeth and giving patients the desired smile. While they have a success rate of lasting many years, there are alternatives to dental crowns that may be worth considering.
The variety of materials available for dental crowns can vary widely. However, some of the most common materials today include porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns, all-metal crowns, and zirconia crowns. Each material has its advantages and drawbacks in terms of strength and aesthetics. However, if you are looking for a more natural solution, there are other options.
Healthy Tooth Alternatives:
- Non-Invasive Options:
Dental bonding is one alternative to consider. This procedure involves applying a tooth-coloured resin material to the tooth’s surface and shaping it into the desired form. The resin is hardened with an ultraviolet light or laser and polished until it resembles a natural tooth surface. This option offers a cost-effective way to improve the appearance of your teeth with minimal risk to the healthy tooth structure.
Veneers are another non-invasive option that can be used in place of crowns in some instances. They consist of thin shells of ceramic or composite material bonded directly onto the tooth’s front surface. Veneers require minimal preparation and offer excellent aesthetics and long-lasting results compared to other non-invasive options such as bonding.
Crown Replacement Alternatives:
- Invasive Options:
If a healthy tooth is not an option due to decay or trauma, replacing missing molars with implants is another alternative worth considering. Implants involve surgically placing titanium posts in the jawbone on which artificial teeth will be placed, providing excellent durability and success rates compared to traditional dental bridges or dentures.
Another invasive option is an all-ceramic bridge, which consists of two or three porcelain crowns connected by one or more false teeth, known as pontics. Due to their all-ceramic construction, these bridges provide pleasing aesthetics and excellent durability and strength.
Ultimately, while dental crowns provide an effective solution for many people seeking cosmetic dentistry solutions, there are several alternatives worth exploring depending on individual needs and preferences – all offering different levels of durability, longevity, aesthetics and cost-effectiveness for those looking for viable solutions beyond traditional dentistry options such as dental crowns.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does A Dental Crown Cost?
The cost of a dental crown can vary significantly, depending on the type of material used and the complexity of the procedure.
On average, a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown typically ranges from $1500 – $2000, while all-ceramic or all-porcelain crowns may cost up to $2,500 or more.
Additional fees, such as lab costs and anesthesia, may also be added to the total cost.
It is important to discuss pricing with your dentist before starting any treatment plan.
Does Insurance cover Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are a standard restoration procedure used in dentistry to protect and improve the strength of weakened or damaged teeth.
It is important to note that the coverage of dental crowns by insurance plans can vary depending on the individual’s policy and other factors.
Generally, most plans will cover at least part of the cost of a dental crown if it is deemed medically necessary and prescribed by a dentist.
Additionally, some policies may provide coverage for cosmetic purposes as well.
Is A Dental Crown Painful To Get?
Dental crowns are a standard restorative dental procedure, and patients often worry about the pain associated with them.
Generally, getting a dental crown is not an extremely painful experience; however, there can be some discomfort during the procedure.
Anesthesia is typically used to numb the area before drilling and filing the tooth to make room for the crown.
Additionally, some patients may experience mild discomfort after the procedure as they adjust to their new crown.
What Are The Risks Of Getting A Dental Crown?
Approximately 95% of dental crowns last between five and fifteen years, most lasting over ten years.
Despite this, there are risks associated with getting a dental crown that should be considered before the procedure.
These risks include the potential for infection at the installation site, nerve damage caused by the drilling process, or an allergic reaction to certain materials used in the crown.
It is essential to discuss these potential risks with your dentist before getting a dental crown to make an informed decision about your oral health care.
How Long Does The Dental Crown Procedure Take?
The dental crown procedure typically takes two visits to the dentist.
During the first visit, the dentist will take an impression of the tooth and prepare it by removing any decay or damaged areas.
The impression will then be sent to a dental lab where the permanent crown is made from either metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal, all-porcelain or resin.
The dentist will fit and adjust the crown for a proper fit and bite on the second visit.
The entire process can take approximately two weeks from start to finish.
Dental Crowns at Pymble, NSW, Australia
Located in Pymble, NSW, Australia, Dentists at Pymble recommend dental crowns as a reliable and long-lasting solution to restore both the function and appearance of one’s smile. While it may require an investment of time and money, the benefits of dental crowns are well worth it. Think of it as putting a new roof on an old house – a dental crown can protect and strengthen the foundation for many years. With proper care and regular checkups, a dental crown can provide patients with a beautiful and lasting smile. However, it’s important to make an informed decision about the cost, risks, and longevity of the procedure before proceeding with it. The decision to get a dental crown should not be taken lightly, but with a full understanding of what it entails.