Your smile is your calling card, so it’s always important to keep it in good health. But sometimes no matter how well we brush and floss our teeth, cavities, cracks, and chips can occur. In some cases, fixing a damaged tooth is as straightforward as getting a simple filling, but occasionally a tooth may require a larger restoration known as a dental crown.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a type of filling that fits over the tooth like a cap and can be used to repair chips, cracks, discoloration, and large cavities. Crowns are custom molded to look like your natural tooth, and your dentist can even match the shade, so it blends in seamlessly with the rest of your mouth.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Over the years, crowns have been made with many different materials, including:
- gold
- stainless steel
- resin
- porcelain on metal
- porcelain / ceramic
Each option is generally used for a different type of restoration, typically at the dentist’s discretion. Today, the most common types of crowns are porcelain, ceramic, or resin. These materials look the most like natural teeth and are preferred when repairing front teeth, and while they are somewhat less durable than metal crowns, they can last up to ten years with proper care.
Stainless steel and gold crowns have been available much longer than porcelain and resin, and they are ideal for back teeth due to their strength. Metal crowns can last for decades, but because they are metal, they are much harder to disguise in the mouth. Thus, they are not usually recommended for restorations on front teeth.
How Do I Extend the Life of My Dental Crowns?
Crowns typically last between five and 20+ years, but this depends on their materials and how well you care for them. To get the most out of them, follow these tips for proper use and care:
- Brush your crowns just as you do your natural teeth and be sure to floss between them
- Attend your regular dental checkups
- Do not use your crowns to tear open packaging, bite your nails, or for any other use besides chewing food
- Don’t smoke
What Kind of Dental Crown Do I Need?
If you need a crown, your dentist will recommend the best option for your individual tooth, factoring in the location and the extent of the repair. Prices will vary depending on the material, so speak to your dentist about options that best suit your budget.
If your dentist has recommended a crown, don’t despair! Think of crowns as the Cadillac of fillings: luxurious, reliable, and safe. With proper care, your crowns can last for many years, restoring your smile and protecting your teeth from further damage.
About Our Practice
The team at D’andrea and Pantera Family & Cosmetic Dentistry wants to treat you like the royalty you are! If you need a crown or any other type of dental procedure, our skilled staff is happy to help.
For premium dental care in a comfortable, modern setting, let us help bring your smile back! To schedule an appointment, please visit our website or call 203-697-8558.
