Dental crowns generally last between 10 and 15 years with proper care, a similar survival rate to dental bridges. The material your dentist uses makes a difference in how long it lasts. Porcelain crowns match your natural teeth and hold up well with good oral hygiene. At Twickenham Family Dentistry, we may recommend gold crowns for back teeth that handle your heavy chewing. These crowns can last even longer than porcelain crowns. Dental bridges are generally made from porcelain, metal, zirconia, resin, or some combination of these materials.
Your daily oral health habits impact longevity as well.
Flossing your teeth daily, including around the crown or dental bridge, keeps bacteria from building up in the area. Brushing twice daily also protects your restorations. If you grind your teeth at night, getting a custom nightguard from your dentist will protect your dental work from excessive wear.
What you put in your mouth also plays a role in longevity. Stay away from things that can harm your crown or bridge, like chewing ice, opening things with your teeth, or biting down on hard foods in the area where your restoration lives. The location of your crown or bridge also plays a role. Back teeth are stronger and can handle more chewing force than front teeth, which may impact your restoration’s longevity.
Get regular checkups at your dentist so that they can monitor your crown or bridge’s condition and catch minor problems before they become more serious and costly.
Schedule Your Crown Consultation Today
If you need a dental bridge or dental crown in Huntsville, or want to check on an existing one, call Twickenham Family Dentistry at (256) 539-4079.