Dental crowns have been around since the 19th century and are still one of the most common dental implants today. If you have a dental crown (or several!) or are scheduled to have a dental crown placed, you may be wondering about how long dental crowns last.
While the answer depends on several factors, we want to try and respond to that question in this blog post!
What is a Dental Crown?
First of all, let’s look at what a dental crown is.
Dental crowns are a metal, resin, or ceramic tooth cap that dentists will place on the top of teeth that are weak, crumbling, cracking, or worn down. This weakening may be because of a cavity, teeth grinding, or a number of other reasons.
What is a Dental Crown Procedure Like?
The procedure to place a dental crown involves using local anesthetics to numb the gums, then shaving and smoothing the surface of the tooth down if necessary, to comfortably fit the crown.
There are a few different types of dental crowns. If your tooth is not fully damaged, your dentist may decide to use a partial crown or dental veneer. The partial crown is a dental crown variation that only covers part of the damaged tooth and protects the remaining tooth structure. The veneer is a porcelain covering that restores the tooth without offering the reshaping or protection that full crowns do.
Sometimes, the dentist will need to custom make a final tooth crown. In this case, they will make a temporary crown to keep your tooth from getting damage while you wait for your final crown to be ready.
Pain Level and Care
Many people are afraid of getting a dental crown because they think that wearing one will be painful, uncomfortable, or a hassle to care for. Let’s expel those fears now!
While a regular dental crown procedure requires local anesthetic, you should be feeling back to normal in about a week afterward. Dental crowns are normally unobtrusive, and you’ll quickly forget that they’re there. If you do have continuing pain with your dental crown, you should schedule an appointment with your dental office.
Dental crowns also do not require much special care to maintain. The most important thing you can do to care for your dental crown is to maintain oral health in general. Brushing twice a day, flossing, and using an antibacterial mouthwash to prevent infection are all great practices.
Dentists also recommend that you avoid chewing ice, grinding or clenching your teeth, and using your teeth to open packages or bottles.
How Long Do Crowns Last?
Now, to the question you’ve been waiting for!
The short answer is that the latest statistics say that they generally last from 10-15 years. After that, they are more likely to wear down and need to be replaced.
The longer answer is that it depends on the skill of the placement, the amount of wear and tear the crown receives daily, and how well the area around the crown is kept clean and healthy.
There’s a 90% chance that your dental crown will last 15 years, or maybe even longer, with proper cleaning, dental checkups, and healthy chewing habits. Many crowns have been found to last up to 20 years!
Get in Touch
When you want to schedule a dental crown consultation, cleaning, or regular checkup, come see us at Columbia River Dentistry in Portland, Oregon. Our friendly dental hygienists and other staff members can help you find the dental care you need! We offer routine checkups, cleanings, cavity fillings, and much more.
Give us a call today to schedule your first visit at (503) 255-5700!