A strong, confident smile can change how you show up in the world, and dental crowns often play a big part in making that possible. Whether you’ve just had a crown placed, or you’re exploring your options, one of the most common questions we hear at Middletown Dental is: “How long do dental crowns last?”
Let’s explore what you can expect from your crown and how to help it last for years to come.
Dental Crown Types and Lifespan
Dental crowns are made from various strong, durable materials, but their longevity is affected by oral hygiene habits, diet, teeth grinding or clenching, and gum health.
The different types of crowns and their typical lifespan include the following:
- Porcelain or ceramic crowns last from 10-15 years or more.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns have an average lifespan of 10-20 years.
- Gold or metal crowns can last for 20-40 years.
- Zirconia crowns typically last 15-25 years.
Tips for Dental Crown Care in Middletown, NJ
Once your dental crown is in place, maintaining it properly is essential to its longevity.
If you’re a New Jersey resident, here are some tips to keep your dental crown looking and functioning its best for as long as possible:
- Be mindful of temperature changes — New Jersey has hot, humid summers and cold winters. This can cause minor expansions and contractions in your dental materials and weaken them over time. Avoid eating or drinking something very hot followed by something very cold, as this will cause the same concerns.
- Beware of sticky or crunchy local treats — Whether it’s a crunchy bagel or taffy, these New Jersey treats can loosen or damage your dental crown if you’re not careful. Try to enjoy these foods in moderation, and if possible, chew on the other side of your mouth.
- Don’t use your teeth as tools — Make sure not to open packages with your teeth, especially during the cold New Jersey winter when the plastic wrappers are even tougher. This can put undue stress on your dental crown. Instead, use scissors to open your packages.
- Maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine — Regardless of the weather, brush and floss around your crown daily to prevent decay.
- Visit your Middletown dentist — Every six months, it’s essential to schedule a regular check-up with our dental office. That way, we can assess your oral health and remove the plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and gums.
Questions about Dental Crowns in Middletown, NJ?
To learn more about affordable dental crowns in Middletown, NJ, please get in touch with our dental office! The experienced team at Middletown Dental can provide answers about crown lifespan and how to care for your new restoration.
If you’d like to schedule an appointment or ask a question, we welcome your call at (732) 495-4444.