How Long Will a Dental Crown Last?

If you have a seriously damaged or decayed tooth, your dentist may recommend a dental crown to restore its strength and appearance. Dental crowns in North Sarasota are a common restorative procedure and with proper care and maintenance, they can last for decades. Below, find out more about the factors that affect the lifespan of a dental crown and steps you can take to ensure yours stays sturdy and strong for the long-haul.

The Lifespan of a Dental Crown

Most dental crowns are placed over the course of two visits to the dentist, though some can be placed in a single appointment using state-of-the-art technology. Once the dental crown has been completed, it should stay bonded securely in place to support proper biting, chewing, and speaking.

Dental crowns are made out of very sturdy materials like porcelain, gold, or silver alloys, but they can and will eventually wear down due to regular use. A dental crown may also chip or break if you bite down on something very hard. However, most dental crowns will stay functioning properly for several decades or even for a lifetime. If you develop a problem with your crown, it may leak and allow bacteria to build up inside causing additional decay or other problems.

Maintenance Steps for a Dental Crown

Fortunately, taking care of a dental crown is not much different from what you are already used to. You should make sure to brush your teeth for two minutes, twice daily, and floss between teeth once a day. Visit your dentist as often as recommended — usually every six months — for checkups and cleanings. If an issue does develop with the dental crown or anything else, seeing your dentist regularly will help to ensure that a treatment plan can be put in place right away.

Keep these tips in mind to ensure that your crown is cleaned properly:

• Brush gently using small circular motions to avoid wearing away at the gum tissue
• Use an interdental cleaner to clean between the crown and the surrounding teeth, preventing the buildup of bacteria in the area between the crown and the gum
• Floss gently around the base of the crown to avoid pulling on it

Problems With a Dental Crown?

If you suspect there is a problem with your dental crown — like if it breaks, becomes loose, or otherwise presents an issue — then do not hesitate to get in touch with your dentist. In some cases, the crown can be repaired — in others, it may need to be replaced altogether. If the tooth underneath the crown has decayed too severely, extraction may be necessary. Whatever treatment is needed, the earlier you seek treatment, the better the outcome for your smile!

Meet the Dentist

Dr. Warren G. Hoffman has over 35 years of experience offering exceptional dental care for patients of all ages. If you are searching for a general and family dentist in North Sarasota, we invite you to give Parkway Ridge Dental a call at (941) 358-8830.