How Long Do Ceramic Crowns Last?
Dental crowns are a common dental restoration that is used to ensure the integrity of a compromised tooth. Teeth can become susceptible to damage due to dental decay or even trauma, which causes the tooth to fracture. When decay is present in a tooth, it weakens the tooth and will only get worse over time, so it is very important to receive treatment for tooth decay as soon as possible. Oftentimes, a cavity can be fixed with a simple dental filling, but if it gets too extensive, a filling may not do the trick, and a dental crown may be necessary.
Crowns can be used on any tooth, regardless of the location. Crowns, or “caps”, fit tightly on the entire exposed part of the tooth and actually extend beyond the gum line for a seamless look and fit.
How long do ceramic crowns last?
With proper care and maintenance, ceramic crowns can last between 15 and 30 years. This large window is because some people are simply more susceptible to tooth decay, no matter how good their oral hygiene is. Genetics can play a role in periodontal disease, which can affect the overall health of the teeth and dental restorations.
When you have a crown, no matter the material, it is good to keep in mind that when you eat certain things, you put your crown at a higher risk of excessive wear. Nuts and other things that are difficult or hard to chew can put undue pressure on your restoration.
It might be a good idea to ask your dentist to fit you for a custom night guard to help protect your teeth and any dental restorations from the stress of bruxism, which is the clenching and grinding a lot of us do in our sleep. A night guard fits over one arch of your teeth, usually the top, and acts as a buffer between your upper and lower teeth.
In the event that your crown comes loose or falls out, your dentist may be able to re-cement it, but it is important to see them as soon as possible because without the crown, your unprotected tooth is vulnerable to damage and may even shift out of place. If the crown cannot be re-cemented or if there is decay found under the crown, it will need to be replaced.
How are ceramic crowns placed?
Your dentist will begin by taking an impression of the tooth and surrounding teeth, as well as the opposing teeth. They will then fabricate a model using that impression, which is then sent to the dental lab. While you are still in the chair, they will place a temporary crown for you to wear for about two weeks while your ceramic crown is being made at the dental lab.
Once your dentist receives your new crown from the lab, they will have you come in to seat the crown. This is typically a quick appointment, and you will have a beautiful, permanent crown that matches your smile perfectly!
If you find that you have a compromised tooth that requires a dental crown, speak with your dentist to see if a ceramic crown is a good option for you.