Think of them as small caps that go on top of a tooth, commonly used after a root canal procedure or in cases of severe cracks.

Dental crowns are designed to withstand the pressure of chewing, though they cannot last forever. Sooner or later, dental crowns will need to be replaced.

Keep on reading to find out more.

What Can Damage a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns can be made from a lot of different materials, such as metal, porcelain, or even zirconia. Each of these crowns has its pros and cons, including different lifespans.

But no matter what they’re made of, dental crowns can still chip, crack, or wear down over time. Factors that can contribute to this include:

• Tooth grinding
• Chewing on hard objects
• Eating hard foods like nuts or popcorn kernels
• Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease and cause the gums to retract
• Direct blows to the mouth during an accident, etc.

On average, dental crowns can last anywhere between 10-15 years, though with the right maintenance, you may extend their lifespan even more. Some patients keep their crowns for even as much as 20 years.

How Can You Increase Your Dental Crown’s Lifespan?

Good oral habits are your best way to make sure the crown doesn’t get damaged anytime soon.

Dental crown maintenance tips can include:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day
• Floss daily, preferably before bed
• Use fluoride products
• Get a mouthguard to address tooth grinding
• Reduce the number of hard foods you consume
• Don’t chew on hard objects like pens
• See your Wauwatosa dentist for routine consultations and professional cleanings

With these small efforts, you could potentially enjoy your restored smile for a long time!

How to Tell If Your Crown Is Damaged

Dental crowns aren’t just there for cosmetic purposes. It’s supposed to help you properly chew your food and protect your natural tooth from getting damaged or developing cavities.

When a crown is broken or fallen, it means your tooth is exposed to unnecessary risk. Take a look at the following signs and if any of them are familiar, be sure to schedule a dentist appointment to get it fixed:

• Visible damage to the crown
• Finding small pieces of the crown in your mouth (after eating or brushing your teeth)
• Noticing tooth pain in that area
• Experiencing higher sensitivity to heat or cold
• Feeling your bite has “changed” or the crown sits strangely in your mouth

Dealing with a Damaged Crown? We Can Help!

If you’ve noticed your crown is damaged, or it might be time for an upgrade, Dr. Shaun McCue is here to help restore your oral health.

Book a dental crown consultation at McCue Dental Health online