Dental crowns are deluxe restorations that can help protect your teeth from damage and decay while maintaining their natural appearance. With proper care and use, they can often last up to ten or more years, but unlike that gallon of milk in your fridge or the check engine light on your car, there’s not always an easy way to tell when it’s time to replace them. Here are four important indicators that your dental crown may be nearing the end of its lifespan, and what you should do if you notice them!
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are large fillings that fit over your tooth like a cap. They can be used to restore teeth with significant decay or cracks so that they look and feel just like a natural tooth. In most cases, dental crowns last about ten years before they need to be replaced. However, how long yours will last depends on a variety of factors, including how well you care for it with regular oral hygiene, dental visits, and proper use.
4 Signs it’s Time to Replace Your Dental Crown
Although your crown doesn’t come with an expiration date, there are still some important signs to watch out for that could indicate it’s time to replace it, including:
- A receding gumline: Gum tissue that pulls away from the teeth so the line where the crown ends and your real tooth begins is visible is an important sign that it’s time to see your dentist and have your crown evaluated. This could be an indicator of gum disease, and that it’s time to upgrade your prosthetic.
- Swelling or pain around the crown: Your crown should be secured comfortably in your mouth for many years. If you begin to feel discomfort around the tooth, this could mean you have a cavity or infection forming under your prosthetic and should be seen by your dentist.
- Damage and wear: Although your crown is strong and durable enough to stand up to a full diet, with time it can become worn or incur damage. If you notice any chips, wear, or other signs of deterioration, it’s time to pay a visit to the dentist.
- Age: Although it’s certainly possible that your crown can last ten years or more, if it is around a decade or older, it’s time to have it examined by your dentist to ensure that it’s still in good condition.
The great news is that while it’s true that your dental crown wasn’t designed to last forever, with proper oral hygiene including brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist every six months for your regular preventive exams and cleanings, they could last 10 years or more. In the meantime, if you notice any of the above signs that yours is nearing the end of its lifespan, schedule an appointment with your dentist to have it evaluated.
About Our Practice
At Texas Dentistry & Braces, we are proud to offer a variety of oral health solutions like dental crowns to help restore the appearance and function of your smile. If you have a tooth that has suffered severe damage or decay, you may be an ideal candidate for a durable, lifelike dental crown. To learn more about this treatment or to have an existing dental crown examined for signs of wear, schedule a consultation with us today by visiting our website or calling 972-329-4200.