Dental crowns are typically placed on a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy or has been broken. Crowns reinforce the tooth’s structure and protect it from further damage. But when should a dental crown be replaced? In this article, we discuss signs that your crown may be due for replacement and offer tips to extend its lifespan.
When Should a Dental Crown Be Replaced?
The longevity of a dental crown typically depends on the material it is made of, the quality of initial dental work, and your personal habits and oral hygiene. Generally, crowns made of porcelain, zirconia, or porcelain-fused-to-metal last for 10 to 15 years, while resin composite crowns tend to last 5 to 7 years. Fully metal crowns (gold or silver amalgam) can last up to 20 years in some cases.
The most common signs that your dental crown is due for replacement include:
- Sensitivity in the tooth, for example, to hot or cold foods and drinks, or when brushing and flossing
- Persistent pain in the tooth or pain when chewing food
- Persistent bad breath or unpleasant taste in the mouth that does not go away after brushing and flossing
- Darkened color of the crown or dark lines along the gumline
- Swelling, redness, or inflammation of the gum tissue around the crown
- The crown feels loose
- Signs of wear and changes in how your bite feels
- Visible damage to the crown, such as cracks or chips
- Pus in periodontal pockets (spaces where the gum tissue connects to the tooth)
If you notice any of these signs, we recommend making an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. When the integrity of the crown is compromised, bacteria can access the tooth beneath the crown, leading to infection or even tooth loss.
How to Make Your Dental Crowns Last Longer
As we mentioned earlier, oral hygiene, dietary habits, and lifestyle can influence the longevity of your crown. Let us look at the main rules that can help you make your crown last longer.
Maintain an Effective Oral Hygiene Routine
Good oral hygiene is essential when you have dental restorations, such as crowns, as issues can arise if the surrounding teeth and gums become infected. Effective daily oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings prevent decay at the margins, periodontal disease, gum recession (which exposes the roots of a crowned tooth), and bad breath.
Be Mindful of Your Diet
Even though modern crowns are remarkably durable, they are still not invincible. People with crowns are recommended to avoid hard and crunchy foods, such as popcorn, stale bread, crackers, and nuts, as they can damage the crown. Additionally, we recommend abstaining from sticky foods.
Sugary and acidic foods can negatively affect your oral health, leading to gum infections and reduced crown stability.
Avoid Physically Damaging Your Crown
Avoid using your teeth as tools, as it is bound to put excessive pressure on your crown and your natural teeth, too, leading to cracks or chips. Also, we recommend wearing a mouthguard when playing contact or extreme sports to help absorb the force in the event of an accident.
Bruxism, involuntary teeth clenching and grinding, can also lead to crown damage or wear. Consult your dentist and wear a mouth guard at night if you notice signs of bruxism.
Make an Appointment at TruGlo Calabasas
If you notice signs of dental crown wear or require other treatments or preventive care, do not hesitate to make an appointment with an experienced dentist at TruGlo Calabasas. At our office, we use high-quality materials and modern techniques to ensure your oral health. We are looking forward to your visit.
