How Long Can Dental Crowns Last?

Like any dental restoration, dental crowns — sometimes referred to as dental caps — should be cared for properly to preserve or extend their lifespan for as long as possible. In the case of dental crowns specifically, this typically means brushing and flossing as usual, along with avoiding certain foods and habits — many of the same recommendations made in caring for natural teeth. With a proper dental care routine and adherence to an appropriate follow-up schedule for dental exams and cleanings with Dr. Angela Ferrari, dental crowns can be relatively long-lasting. Here, you'll find helpful information from the knowledgeable team of Farmingdale, NY dentists at Ferrari & Aldieri Dental Associates on how to care for your dental crowns, how long your crowns may last, and what to do if a dental crown becomes loose, damaged, or falls out.

When would you need a dental crown?

Dental crowns are typically classified as restorative dentistry services, but these restorations can also provide a number of cosmetic benefits. In many cases, patients may have dental crowns placed for both functional and aesthetic purposes. Some of the most common reasons for placing a dental crown (or multiple crowns) include:

• Cracked tooth
• Damaged tooth
• Tooth treated by root canal therapy
• Worn tooth/teeth
• To conceal a tooth with a large and/or compromised filling
• To create a more even, seamless smile
• To replace a missing tooth (with an implant-supported crown)
• To restore improved dental function (chewing, etc.) and enhance comfort
• To achieve a whiter, more beautiful smile

How durable are dental crowns?

Dental crowns are created from highly durable materials that are designed to withstand years' worth of eating, chewing, and normal habits — in addition to being naturally stain-resistant (though not stain-proof). However, it is important to understand that dental crowns can be damaged, discolored, or stained with certain behaviors, including not adhering to proper care instructions. To keep your dental crowns strong and healthy for as long as possible, use these dental crown care tips:

• Brush and floss twice daily
• Rinse as directed
• Follow your normal dental exam and cleaning schedule as recommended
• Avoid red wine, tea, coffee, and other staining beverages
• Do not smoke
• Do not bite your fingernails
• Do not chew ice and other hard objects or foods
• Avoid sticky, gummy, crunchy candies and foods
• Do not use your teeth to hold things, open things, etc.

How long can I keep my dental crowns?

In many cases, dental crowns can last for years or even decades with proper care and healthy habits like those listed above. In some cases, however, a dental crown may get damaged or compromised and require repair or replacement. If you notice that your crown feels loose, has sustained damage, or has fallen off of your tooth, don't hesitate to call our office right away so that we can discuss your options for having your crown replaced, remade, or restored as soon as possible. In certain scenarios, same-day crowns using the advanced CEREC® system may be an option for restoring your smile right away.

Keep your smile in top-notch shape with dental crowns in Farmingdale, NY

Whether your teeth have become worn over time and you're thinking about upgrading your smile with multiple crowns, or you simply have a single tooth that needs to be protected or strengthened with a crown, it's critical to understand how to properly care for and preserve your crown for as long as possible. For more information about how dental crowns may improve the integrity of your smile, give our caring team at Ferrari & Aldieri Dental Associates a call to schedule your dental crown consultation with Dr. Angela Ferrari in Farmingdale, NY today.