How Long Does a Crown Last?

Have questions about how long your dental crown will stick around? You’re not alone! Here at AV Dental Wellness in Lancaster, CA, we hear this question all the time. As your expert Lancaster dentist, we’re excited to share everything you need to know about getting the most life out of your crown.

Understanding Dental Crown Lifespan

Let’s talk about what you can expect from dental crowns in Lancaster. Think of a crown like a protective helmet for your tooth – it’s tough and designed to last, but it won’t last forever. With good care, most crowns keep going strong for 10 to 15 years, and some overachievers even make it to 20 years or beyond!

The type of crown you choose makes a difference, too. Our office offers several options for dental crowns in Lancaster, each with its own superpowers. Want something that looks just like your natural teeth? Porcelain crowns are your best bet. Need something super sturdy? We might recommend porcelain-fused-to-metal. Your expert Lancaster dentist will help you choose the perfect match for your smile.

How Long Does a Temporary Crown Last?

Before you get your forever crown, you’ll spend a little time with a temporary one – think of it as your tooth’s short-term bodyguard. These temporary protectors usually hang out for about two to three weeks while our dental lab crafts your permanent crown with precision and care.

Now, these temporary crowns are more like the substitute teachers of the dental world – they’ll do the job, but they’re not meant to stick around forever. They’re typically made from materials like acrylic, which are not intended for extended biting forces, so you’ll want to be extra gentle with them. If your temporary crown decides to take an unexpected vacation (comes loose or falls out), give us a call right away – we’ll get you taken care of!

Factors Affecting Dental Crown Lifespan

Want to know what makes some crowns last longer than others? Here are the key players:

• Your Daily Dental Routine: Just like a car needs regular maintenance, your crown requires daily brushing and flossing to last longer. The natural tooth is still exposed to environments in the mouth at the gumline. Consistent care helps prevent issues and keeps your smile healthy.
• Grinding and Clenching: If you’re tough on your teeth at night, your crown might need some extra protection. Consider using a night guard to shield your teeth from potential damage.
• Location is Everything: Because back teeth do more heavy lifting, these crowns might need replacement sooner. Therefore, it’s essential to monitor their condition more closely than that of front teeth.
• Material Matters: Different crown materials have different lifespans, and it’s important to choose wisely. Our team will work with you to find the best fit for your needs.
• Professional Placement: Having your crown placed by someone who knows their stuff, like our experienced Lancaster team, makes a huge difference. Proper placement ensures better longevity and comfort for your crown.

Prolonging the Life of Your Dental Crown

Let’s talk about keeping your crown in tip-top shape! Think of crown care like taking care of your favorite pair of shoes – the better you treat them, the longer they’ll last. Regular brushing and flossing are your crown’s best friends and don’t forget to stop by for check-ups so we can make sure everything’s looking good.

Playing sports? Grab a mouth guard—think of it as a seatbelt for your smile. If you grind your teeth at night, we might suggest a custom nightguard to protect your investment while you sleep.

Good Oral Hygiene Practices

Here’s your recipe for crown-care success:

• Daily Crown Care:
  • Give your teeth (and crown) a thorough brush twice a day
  • Show your crown some flossing love, especially around the edges
  • Swish with mouthwash to keep the bacteria and viruses away
  • Try special brushes to clean around your crown even better
• Taking Care of Business:
  • See us every six months for a check-up
  • Get those professional cleanings to keep everything sparkling
  • Don’t wait to tell us if something feels off
  • Keep up with your regular dental maintenance

Signs Your Crown Might Need Attention

Nobody knows your mouth better than you do! If something feels different with your crown, pay attention. Does it feel tender when you bite down? Notice any dark lines near your gums? Is your crown feeling a bit wobbly? These are all signs it’s time to give us a call. Don’t worry – we’re here to help!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Choose AV Dental Wellness?

When it comes to dental crowns, we’re kind of like your smile’s personal bodyguards. We combine years of experience with the latest technology to give you crowns that not only look amazing but are built to last. We love helping our patients understand how to care for their new crowns, and we’re always here if you have questions or concerns.

Ready to Talk Crowns?

Whether you’re thinking about getting a crown or want to make sure your current one stays happy and healthy, we’d love to help! Give us a call at AV Dental Wellness in Lancaster, CA. Let’s work together to keep your smile looking and feeling fantastic!