Dental crowns are a favourite means of replacing broken teeth, and they offer protection as well as cosmetic advantages. If you are considering dental crowns in Lethbridge, the question most frequently sought out is how long they will last. The longevity of a dental crown is influenced by a variety of factors, such as what material is used, oral hygiene practices, and daily wear and tear.
Here in this blog, we will cover everything you must understand regarding the dental crown lifespan and maintaining them durable.
What Is the Average Lifespan of a Dental Crown?
Dental crowns typically last between 5 and 15 years on average. However, with good maintenance, some crowns may last for 20 or even 30 years. The life of your crown depends on various factors, such as:
- The type of material used
- Your oral hygiene routine
- Your dietary habits
- Habits such as teeth grinding or nail-biting
Factors That Affect Dental Crown Durability
1. Crown Material
Various materials have varying durability. The most popular dental crown types are:
- Porcelain crowns: They give a natural look but are more susceptible to chipping.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns: They are durable and strong but may, at times, exhibit metal along the gum line.
- Metal crowns (gold or alloy): They are extremely durable and resistant to wear.
- Zirconia crowns: These crowns are incredibly strong and have a natural appearance. They are very resistant to damage.
2. Oral Hygiene Routine
Healthy oral habits are an important factor in prolonging the life of a dental crown. Brushing daily, flossing every day, and getting regular checkups at a dental clinic can avoid the accumulation of plaque and gum disease, which both shorten the life of a crown.
3. Avoid these foods when wearing dental crowns
Your food choice may directly influence the durability of your dental crown. Certain foods will exert too much pressure on crowns or lead to wear and tear over time. The following are foods to be avoided with dental crowns:
- Hard foods: Ice, hard candies, and nuts may chip or crack a crown.
- Sticky foods: Caramel, toffee, and gum can dislodge the crown from the tooth.
- Sweets and sweetened beverages: Too much sugar can cause deterioration in the tooth under the crown.
- Acidic foods: Citrus fruits and soda can dissolve the bonding material.
4. Teeth Grinding and Clenching
Bruxism (teeth clenching and grinding) can also dramatically reduce the dental crown life span. If you grind your teeth, wearing a nightguard during sleep will shield both your crowns and natural teeth from wear and tear.
5. Good Dental Hygiene and Regular Visits
It is worth visiting a Lethbridge dental clinic on a regular basis to have routine checkups because that way, your dentist is able to track your crown and maintain it in optimal condition. Identifying cracks and looseness when they are minor can avert future, more severe complications.
How to Extend the Life of Your Dental Crown
If you want to maximize your dental crown durability, follow these simple tips:
- Practice good oral hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to avoid plaque accumulation.
- Break bad habits: Do not use your teeth to open packages or bite hard objects.
- Watch your diet: Avoid foods that can destroy the crown.
- Wear a nightguard: If you’re a teeth grinder, wear a protective guard while sleeping.
- Go to your dentist regularly: Regular cleanings and checkups will catch problems before they become severe.
Visit Absolute Dental for Long-Lasting Dental Crowns
If you are looking for dental crowns, Absolute Dental provides high-quality restorative treatments tailored to your needs. Our dental clinic in Lethbridge offers expert care to help you maintain your crowns and overall oral health. Schedule an appointment today to ensure your smile remains strong and beautiful for years to come!