How Long Dental Crowns Last
For a damaged or decayed tooth, there are a few different repair options that a dentist can choose from. For more severe damage, the dentist will often choose the placement of a dentist crown.
Dental crowns are dental prosthetics that replace a damaged tooth crown. These prosthetics help to return the functionality of the tooth and—depending on the material chosen—the cosmetic appearance of the tooth. Dental crowns also allow patients to maintain a good portion of their natural tooth—which is ideal. For all of these reasons, prosthetic crowns are an excellent tooth repair choice.
Types of Dental Crowns
Once a dentist has decided that prosthetic crowns are the best repair option for their patient, they will likely offer a few different materials that can be used to fabricate the crown. Below are the most common materials, along with their advantages and disadvantages:
Porcelain-Fused to Metal
Porcelain-fused to metal crowns are an excellent choice for patients that are looking for both durability and appearance. Porcelain closely matches the look of a natural tooth, which can make porcelain-fused to metal a great choice for patients having their front teeth repaired. One of the biggest downsides is the cost, which is often more than ceramic.
Ceramic
Another excellent option for crown materials is ceramic. Like porcelain-fused to metal, ceramic can closely mimic the look of natural teeth. The disadvantage of ceramic is their lesser level of durability.
Gold and Metal Alloys
Gold and metal alloy crowns are great for functionality, but not as great when it comes to appearance. Both metal and gold alloys are very noticeable, which makes them a better choice for molars than front teeth.
The Placement Process
No matter which material you choose to go with, the placement process will be very similar. The first step is the reshaping of the tooth to allow for the placement of the crown. From there, an impression will be made, and you will be given the choice of materials for the fabrication of the crown. The impression will then be sent away for the dental crown to be fabricated. Once the dental crown is ready, your dentist will have you come to their practice to have the dental crown fitted and placed. Once they are happy with the fit and look of the crown, they will finish the placement process.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
The actual longevity of your dental crown will depend on a variety of factors, including the materials and the upkeep. While some crowns last as little as 10 years, others can last as long as 30 years! It’s important to take good care of the tooth with the dental crown, as the remaining portion of the healthy tooth can still become infected.
Still, with proper care, dental crowns can provide an excellent level of functionality for a long time, and can help to improve the cosmetic appearance of your smile.
More About Dental Crowns : How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost?