How Long Do Ceramic Crowns Last?
In order to maintain good oral health, it is imperative for patients to practice good hygiene. This includes brushing the teeth, flossing, and regular dental visits. Patients who fail to do these things can accumulate plaque on the teeth which results in various problems. For example, untreated cavities can progress and result in serious issues. Patients who have a damaged tooth often receive a dental crown. This restoration is able to preserve the damaged tooth and restore its function. In many cases, a crown helps treat a damaged tooth resulting from trauma or an accident.
Dental Crown
Dental crowns are a cap which fits snugly over a natural tooth. The restoration is above the gumline and preserves the function of the natural tooth while also maintaining the appearance of the teeth. A filling is commonly used to treat minor issues like a small crack. In cases of more significant damage, a crown may need to be used. Another benefit of a crown is that it provides the natural tooth with necessary support.
A crown strategically fits over the natural tooth’s surface. The restoration can be shaped and adjusted in order to look just like the adjacent natural teeth. Crowns can also be used cosmetically for improving the shape, size and general appearance of teeth.
Preparation
Prior to placing a crown, impressions are obtained of the teeth. These are then sent to a lab who the crown is created. Some dental offices have a lab onsite where the crown is fabricated. This can aid in expediting the timeline for the restoration and avoid the need for a temporary crown.
Temporary Restoration
The dentist will place a temporary crown while the permanent crown is being prepared. Temporary crowns are effective in protecting the damaged tooth. They also aid in preventing further damage. The temporary crown is removed once the permanent crown is ready. Dental professionals will work diligently to achieve a good fit for the permanent crown. Once it is ready, it will be permanently cemented into place. The entire surface of the natural tooth is covered by the crown above the gumline.
Partial Crown
An onlay or partial crown can cover smaller areas of a damaged tooth. The procedure for placing a partial crown is similar to that of a traditional crown and includes the following steps:
- Removal of damage or infection
- Reshaping or modification of the existing tooth’s surface
- Placement of crown
How Long Does a Crown Last?
Unfortunately, a crown does not usually last for a lifetime. When they are properly cared for, it is possible for them to last for 15-30 years. One of the most common types of restorations used to restore a damaged tooth is a ceramic crown. Benefits of these crowns include that they are durable, inexpensive, and look similar to the natural teeth.
Care for Crowns
Below is a summary of how to properly care for a ceramic crown.
- Maintain good oral hygiene with brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits
- Limit the consuming of sticky, crunchy, and hard foods which can damage the crown
- Never use the teeth as a tool or bite on objects other than food
- Use a night guard to protect the crown during sleep
Patients who are considering a ceramic crown should call the office today. A ceramic crown is an exceptional solution which can last for many years.