How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

Dental crowns are tooth caps used to restore the look and function of a damaged tooth.

Thanks to crowns, patients can eat normally and not feel self-conscious about their smiles. Crowns are custom-made to match your exact color, tooth shape, and size.

If you need to get a dental crown in Palm Harbor, you might be wondering how long it can last.

The Bow Tie Dentist has the answer:

Dental Crowns' Average Lifespan

Dental crowns usually last around 10-15 years on average with the right maintenance. They are strong and designed to allow you to chew your food normally, but they can still break, chip, and wear out over time. 

Here are some simple tips that can help you care for a dental crown and extend its lifespan:

• Brush your teeth twice a day
• Floss daily
• Use fluoride products
• Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth
• Stop smoking
• Eat more fresh vegetables and fruits to increase saliva production
• Be mindful of how many hard foods you eat (like crackers or bread crusts)
• Don’t chew on non-food objects like pens or pencils
• See the dentist routinely for cleanings and check-ups 

How Do You Get a Dental Crown?

Here are some common steps to getting a dental crown:

• Consultation: First, it’s important to determine if a dental crown is the right solution for you. The consultation will include an assessment of your damaged tooth, overall oral health, and even smile expectations.

• Prepping: Teeth must be resized so the dental crown can fit over them. It’s why crowns aren’t recommended if your teeth are perfectly healthy but just have a cosmetic issue you want to fix. Once the tooth is resized, you may receive a temporary crown to protect it until the permanent one is ready.

• Molding: The dentist will apply putty over your tooth and ask you to bite down. You’ll need to hold your mouth closed for a few minutes so the putty can take an impression of your tooth.

• Manufacturing: The impression is sent to a lab, where the crown is made from scratch based on the mold and your tooth color;

• Cementing: When the crown is ready, it will be permanently cemented on top of your tooth.

Before cementing the crown, it will be added on top of the tooth, and you’ll get the chance to see if you’re comfortable with it. If not, it can be sent back to the lab for adjustments, or the dentist can reshape the surface to correct minor size or shape issues.

Find Out If Dental Crowns Are Right for You

If you have a damaged tooth and are wondering if dental crowns are the best way to restore it, Dr. Saimon Ramos is happy to help.

Schedule a dental crown consultation at Bow Tie Dentist online and stop by to discover your options.

For more information, call us at (727) 789-1212 today!