This is typically due to resorption. Within the first year of tooth loss you can lose up to 25 percent of your bone density in that particular area. It only continues from there. That is because teeth and roots provide stimulation to the jawbone and that stimulation is a signal to the brain that your jaw is serving its primary purpose. When teeth fall out, that stimulation is reduced or eliminated completely. As a result, the body begins to leach calcium from the jaw for use elsewhere. If you know that you are going to lose a tooth, do not hesitate to schedule an appointment since there are certain procedures that can prevent or limit the amount of resorption. Other reasons for a loss of bone density is periodontal (gum) disease, developmental defect, injury or decay and infections. Visiting the dentist on a regular basis for preventative care can help to reduce these risks.
Our Dentist in Dearborn often gets questions about dental crowns. Do they involve an intensive fitting procedure, can they yield fantastic results for a smile? How long should crowns last, these and many other questions are common. Here is a brief summary of how long a dental crown’s average lifespan is, as well as some information about how a crown can be made to last longer.
How long do dental crowns last?
To be straightforward, a dental crown will not last forever, no matter how well it is fitted. The good news, however, is that they usually last a long time.
A crown’s average lifespan
Professionally-fitted dental crowns usually have about five to 15 years of longevity on average. Crowns are made of resilient materials, like porcelain or metal alloys, which allows them to stand up to a lot of potential wear and damage. Of course, crowns are also not indestructible, and they may need to be replaced for a variety of reasons.
Common reasons for replacement
A crown is in need of replacement when it showcases one or both of the telltale signs of significant damage or dental issues. Damage to the crown is often visible in the form of chips or cracks on the crown’s surface. These can be dangerous for several reasons. For one, chips off a crown can cause injury to the mouth due to sharp edges, or could even injure the throat if swallowed. A damaged crown also may create an opening through which the tooth it protects could be exposed to infection.
The second sign a crown needs replacement is any new pain, signs of infection or development of plaque around the base or ridges of the crown. This is an indicator that the tooth beneath may be infected or further damaged, and warrants both a replacement and dental attention to the tooth in question.
A crown’s lifespan can be extended
Thankfully, there are some steps that can be taken to extend a crown’s life. While it is not guaranteed your crown will last forever, proper care for it can keep it pearly white for several years.
Avoiding harmful habits
Dental crowns can be needlessly damaged by habits, including those a patient might not even be aware that they have. Examples of harmful habits to a crown’s health are improper or no brushing and flossing, habitual teeth grinding or chewing on hard objects.
The importance of regular dental visits
Consistently seeing a dentist for scheduled dental checkups and cleanings are also an important factor in a crown’s longevity. Dentists have the tools necessary to care both for natural teeth and dental crowns, and regular cleanings help to ward off any new infections that could develop in the mouth and spread, endangering both the crown and the tooth beneath it. A well-followed regimen of home brushing and flossing in conjunction with dental visits can keep a crown in place for years to come.
Do you currently need dental crowns?
If you are currently in need of dental crowns, we invite you to contact our office today to schedule a consultation with our dentists.
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