A dental crown should last about 5-15 years. They can last even longer if you practice excellent oral care habits.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a restoration that fits over a prepared natural tooth structure. Crowns protect teeth that have suffered damage from dental injuries or excessive decay. They are also frequently used to cover teeth that have received root canals.
Advantages of Dental Crowns
Save Natural Teeth
If enough natural tooth structure remains or the dentist can sufficiently build it up, a crown can be an excellent choice.
Restore Chewing Ability
Damaged or painful teeth make it challenging to chew. With a new crown, you will be able to eat your favorite foods without discomfort.
Natural Look and Feel
Today's crowns are an attractive match for your natural teeth. Even if you receive a crown on your front teeth, it won't be easy to distinguish it from an existing tooth. A crown also feels just like a natural tooth when properly fitted. E-Max or Zirconia is usually the material of choice. A dental crown can last about 5-15 years and can last longer with optimal oral care habits. Some crowns last up to 30 years.
The Crown Procedure
Receiving a dental crown is a straightforward procedure that typically takes two appointments about two weeks apart.
The first step is taking digital X-rays to assess the tooth's condition and discover hidden problems.
Next, The dentist numbs the tooth and surrounding area to make the process comfortable. The dentist prepares the tooth to fit the crown. They may have to remove or add material to the tooth to make sure the angulations are correct for proper insertion. The dentist prepares the tooth for the crown , followed by scanning the tooth with a digital scanner to create a model of the tooth that needs restoration. The dentist then sends this model to the lab to make the permanent crown.
The dentist will then make a temporary crown that you will wear for approximately two weeks while the lab makes the final product. You may need to be careful with the temporary crown. If it falls out, we can re-cement it.
When the crown is ready, you will return to the office to have it seated in your mouth. The dentist bonds the crown to your tooth, ensuring it is comfortable before you leave.
How To Make Crowns Last Longer
- Try to break teeth-grinding habits if possible by wearing a nightguard
- Avoid chewing on ice, pens, and other non-food objects
- Have damaged or poorly fitting crowns repaired as soon as possible
- Attend all scheduled dentist appointments for cleanings and exams
Call MD Smiles
A dental crown can help restore your smile while preserving your natural tooth. If you have a broken or damaged tooth, call our office at 410-531-2690. We can explain your options and schedule an appointment.