Dental crowns are protective caps placed over weak, damaged, or cosmetically imperfect teeth. They help to restore strength and improve the appearance of your smile. If a tooth is cracked or vulnerable, dentists often recommend crowns to safeguard it.
A common question is whether dental crowns are permanent or not. According to Dr. Bernstein of Gentle Dental, “Yes, dental crowns are meant to last a long time. They are cemented permanently and can last as long as the supporting tooth remains healthy. Statistically, they last six to eight years, but in our practice, they last 15 to 20 years.”
If you are in Newark, New Jersey, or nearby areas, contact us to learn more about our dental crown services.
Are Dental Crowns Permanent?
Dental crowns are a long-term solution but are not technically permanent. Once a crown is cemented in place, it is designed to remain in place for as long as the underlying tooth remains healthy and strong.
On average, crowns can last many years, often exceeding a decade. However, their lifespan depends on factors such as oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and the health of the tooth supporting the crown.
With proper care, crowns can last 15 to 20 years, though they may need replacement if the supporting tooth weakens or the crown becomes damaged over time.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns are of two main types, temporary and permanent. The durability of the crown depends on its type.
Temporary Crowns
Temporary dental crowns are typically made from materials like acrylic or composite resins. They are a more affordable option but are intended for short-term use, usually lasting only a few weeks.
Their main purpose is to protect the tooth while you wait for your permanent crown. This ensures your dental treatment is smooth and effective.
Permanent Crowns
Permanent dental crowns are designed to be a durable, long-term solution. Ceramic and porcelain are popular choices because they closely resemble the natural color of teeth.
Stainless steel and gold are also reliable materials used for permanent crowns. Dentists use strong cement to keep the crowns fixed in place. With proper installation and care, permanent crowns can often last between 15 and 20 years.
What Impacts the Lifespan of Dental Crowns?
Several factors can alter the longevity of permanent dental crowns.
Material and Installation
Metal crowns, such as those made from gold or stainless steel, tend to be more durable but may not be the preferred choice for visible teeth due to their appearance.
Porcelain or ceramic crowns are more aesthetically pleasing, though they can be slightly more prone to wear. The lifetime of the crown also depends on the quality of the installation. You can trust Gentle Dental for precise and high-quality crown installation.
Oral Hygiene
Patients having one or more dental crowns should brush and floss their teeth regularly. Otherwise, plaque can weaken the supporting teeth and the crown may become vulnerable.
Habits
Some habits can damage permanent dental crowns. We recommend avoiding chewing ice or hard objects after receiving a crown. Nail biting or teeth grinding also reduces the lifespan of dental crowns.
Preservation
After getting a permanent crown, we encourage patients to visit us periodically. Throughout the lifespan of the crown, we perform regular checks and make sure the crown lasts for longer.
Get Long-Lasting Dental Crowns from Gentle Dental!
At Gentle Dental, we believe in creating beautiful, healthy smiles that last. Our carefully selected dental crowns enhance the appearance of your teeth while providing durable, long-term protection.
From your first consultation to the final placement, our team ensures that every step is handled with care and precision, giving you the comfort you deserve.
Visit us in Newark, New Jersey, and experience the exceptional care and services at Gentle Dental.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I brush my teeth with permanent dental crowns?
Of course. Permanent crowns don’t restrict any natural dental habits. So, you can brush your teeth with the crown. In fact, it is essential to brush the teeth with the crown to increase their lifespan.
Q: What if there are cavities under a permanent crown?
If there are cavities beneath the crown, reach out to us. Our dentists will diagnose the problem and provide suitable solutions to protect the teeth.
Q: Do permanent crowns require special care?
Permanent crowns do not require any special care beyond routine oral hygiene. It is recommended to brush twice a day, floss regularly, and avoid biting down on hard foods or objects to help maintain the crown’s longevity.
Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult your physician for any medical concerns or before starting any treatment. Do not ignore professional medical advice due to the information read here. The authors are not responsible for any outcomes from the use of this information.
