Millions of people have dental crowns or some other type of dental restoration. These little devices are excellent for restoring strength to damaged teeth and giving the gorgeous gleam back to a person’s grin. You might wonder, though, how long do dental crowns in Hutchinson last? The answer depends largely on how the crowns are cared for and what they’re made of.
A Look at Dental Crown Types
On average, a dental crown can last between five and 15 years. However, some crowns may last a lifetime. Here is a quick breakdown of the different types of crowns and their level of durability:
- All porcelain. Many people choose this type of crown because porcelain looks and feels like natural teeth. It’s a durable material, but it may crack or chip if too much pressure is applied.
- Porcelain fused to metal. These crowns have an extremely sturdy metal base underneath porcelain. They are stronger than all porcelain crowns, and they look almost as good.
- All-metal crowns. The best all-metal crowns are made of gold alloys. The gold is biocompatible, and the alloys give it extra strength. These crowns can stand up to pretty much anything you throw at them; they won’t crack, break, or chip. The disadvantage is that their color makes them stand out. They’re usually best for teeth in the back of the mouth.
Caring for Your Crowns
Your dental crowns help you to have a healthy, well-functioning set of teeth. You can show them how much you appreciate them by taking good care of them. Here are some tips to help you avoid a crown catastrophe:
- Don’t grind or clench your teeth. This habit can wear down the crown. If the crown is porcelain, its surface can become rough and start to irritate the surrounding tissue. If you find it difficult not to grind your teeth at night, consider wearing a mouth guard while you sleep.
- Avoid very hard foods. Munching on ice or other hard substances puts crowns, especially ones made of porcelain, in danger.
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene. A tooth with a crown on it won’t decay, but that area is still susceptible to gum disease. By brushing, flossing, and visiting your Hutchinson dentist regularly, you can keep your entire mouth in great shape.
What If Something Happens to Your Crown?
If a crown breaks or chips, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible. You may need an entirely new crown, or your dentist might be able to repair the one you lost. Before your appointment, don’t chew food on the side of the mouth that last the crown, and avoid consuming things that are very hot or very cold.
Dental crowns are sturdy, but they aren’t invincible. You can make yours last as long as possible by caring for it well.
About Our Practice
Dr. Grant D. Ringler leads the team of dental professionals at our office. Along with other talented dentists, he provides top-notch care to folks in Hutchinson. If you have questions about dental crowns or anything related to oral health, feel free to contact us at 620-860-0309.