What Is the Lifespan of Dental Crowns? Insights from a Dentist in Union Ridge, Chicago
Dental crowns are one of the most popular dental restoration procedures in the world. Sometimes known as “caps,” dental crowns are tooth-shaped implants that surround your natural teeth to help improve the strength, function, and appearance of damaged or broken teeth. Dental crowns can be used to treat a wide range of dental problems, such as advanced tooth decay (dental caries), dental erosion, tooth abscesses, dental injuries, and more.
Although dental crowns are made of highly durable materials, they are not meant to last indefinitely. As the top-rated dentist in Union Ridge, Chicago, Dr. Gordon J. Ziols takes the time to educate his patients on how long their dental crowns will last, while also providing tips to help keep their dental crowns strong. Read below to learn more.
How long does a dental crown last?
Because every patient and every situation is unique, we simply cannot tell patients exactly how long their dental crowns will last. However, what we can tell them is that dental crowns in Union Ridge, Chicago that are made from high-quality materials (like porcelain) are designed to withstand the normal wear and tear that teeth are exposed to.
On average, dental crowns that are done by a reputable dentist in Union Ridge, Chicago should last anywhere between 10 and 20 years under ideal conditions — but they may last even longer with proper aftercare.
Factors that influence how long dental crowns last
There are several factors that can influence how long a dental crown lasts. Some of these factors are related to the dental crown itself, while others are related to how the dental crown is cared for once it’s in place. Some of the most important factors that affect the lifespan of a dental crown include:
- The materials used to make the dental crown
- The precision with which the dental crown is set
- The position of the dental crown, as well as the type of wear and tear it endures
- Oral hygiene practices
Dental crowns aftercare tips
While some factors are beyond a person’s control, there are many things our patients can do to prolong the life of their dental crowns. After a dental crown treatment in Union Ridge, Chicago, we recommend the following:
- Brushing at least twice a day
- Flossing at least once a day
- Drinking enough water
- Avoiding hard, crunchy, or chewy food
- Avoiding smoking
- Avoiding poor dental habits, such as nail-biting, grinding, or clenching
- Scheduling dental checkups and teeth cleanings with your dentist in Union Ridge, Chicago at least twice a year
Replacing worn out or damaged dental crowns
Even if you do everything possible to care for your dental crowns, they can still wear out or become damaged over time. A damaged dental crown will likely expose the natural tooth’s core and leave it prone to decay.
Damaged dental crowns should be replaced as soon as possible by a Union Ridge dentist to protect the teeth and minimize the risk of dental problems in the future. Replacing a damaged dental crown is a simple procedure that is pretty much identical to the initial dental crown fitting. If you need assistance with your dental crowns in Union Ridge, Chicago, the team at Smile Innovations would be more than happy to assist you.
Looking to Discuss the Possibility of Dental Crowns? Contact the Top-Rated Dentist in Union Ridge, Chicago
If you are ready to meet with a dentist to discuss the possibility of dental crowns in Union Ridge, Chicago, Dr. Ziols would be happy to meet with you and answer any questions you may have. Contact Smile Innovations today at 773-763-1000 to schedule an appointment.