Dental crowns are built to last for many years, but just like natural teeth, which are supposed to last a lifetime, a definite lifespan for the devices cannot be guaranteed.
Using history, dental crowns will last between five and fifteen years, which is fairly a long period of time considering the service they promise. It all depends on what material they are made of, the position of the tooth they are encasing, and how well you care for them.
Crowns positioned at the back of the mouth may last the shortest due to the higher bite and chewing pressure. You are advised to refrain from habits such as nail biting and using your teeth to open packages as they can shorten the lifespan of your crown. Also, if you have been diagnosed with bruxism, it would be worthwhile to seek treatment to protect the appliance from wear and tear.
Depending on a number of factors, including the state of the underlying tooth, crowns may be subject to an array of problems. The problems include recession of gums to expose crown margins, chips and fractures, recurrent decay, and periodontal disease. Note that the crown itself may not be subject to decay, but if the underlying tooth is affected, the crown will have to be removed to allow for alternative treatment.
Sometimes it is not the fractures, breakage or some other form of actual damage that may render a crown unserviceable. Aesthetic depreciation, such as the crown gradually losing its tooth-colored hue and taking on a dark shade, may prompt you to seek a replacement.
The most important thing to remember is that you are virtually fully responsible for how long a crown will last on your tooth. Our dentist at Armor Kirds Dentistry will help with the fixing of your crown and guide you on the best practices to optimize its longevity. Call us today to schedule an appointment with them.