Dental Crowns and Bridges; Know About Lifespan and Care Tips
In restorative dentistry, dental crowns and bridges hold significant importance. These two treatment options not only restore tooth function but also improve aesthetics. However, patients often ask about their longevity. It is important to know that dental crowns use materials like porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, and metal that have significant strength. Whereas, dental bridges replace the missing teeth to literally “bridge” the gap.
Patients must understand that both dental restorative treatment options aim to protect and rebuilt damaged teeth. However, various factors impact their lifespan. This blog highlights these factors, along with oral hygiene tips to improve the longevity of both.
Lifespan of Dental Crowns and Bridges
As stated earlier, both dental treatment options prove beneficial in their own way. If one adds aesthetics, the other aims to bridge the gap to restore tooth function. However, the lifespan of both dental crowns and bridges varies accordingly:
Dental Crown
Dental crowns, structured with the desired material, revitalize damaged or weakened teeth. This dental restorative treatment option improves tooth function and enhances overall aesthetics as well. The lifespan of dental crowns is mostly 10-15 years. However, if good oral hygiene is maintained, these can last up to 20 years.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges, on the other hand, are designed by specialized dentists to replace one or more missing teeth. These bridges are anchored to the adjacent teeth and restore tooth function. Therefore, these too are vital in maintaining oral function and aesthetics. A dental bridge’s lifespan can range from 10 to 15 years, with the potential to last longer with good care.
Factors Affecting Longevity of Dental Crowns and Bridges
The following are a few common factors that influence the overall lifespan of dental crowns and bridges:
Material Type
The material of the replacement crown or bridge holds great importance. The following are the material types used by specialized dentists:
Porcelain and Ceramic
Dental crowns and bridges most often are made of these material types to enhance natural appearance. However, one of the drawbacks that patients face is that this material wears faster under heavy chewing forces.
Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM)
This material type is often a good choice as it is a perfect balance of strength and aesthetics.
Gold and Metal Alloys
These costly dental crowns and bridges last the longest due to their high durability. However, they are less commonly used for visible teeth due to concerns regarding aesthetics.
Zirconia
Known for high strength and good aesthetics, making it a durable option.
Location in the Mouth
Dental crowns and bridges are often fixed on molars or premolars. These teeth types often face higher chewing forces, which leads to an increase in wear and tear compared to those on front teeth. Hence, this factor highly impacts the lifespan of both restoration options.
Lifestyle Habits
The following are a few lifestyle habits that must be changed in a timely manner to increase the lifespan of dental crowns and bridges:
- Grinding or clenching teeth (bruxism)
- Chewing on hard objects like ice or pens
- Using teeth as tools (e.g., opening packages)
- Eating excessive hard or sticky foods
Wearing a nightguard if grinding is an issue can protect restorations.
Regular Dental Visits
As stated earlier, one of the best tips is to avoid any complications. These professional cleanings and checkups are an essential part of maintaining good oral hygiene, as they allow dentists to monitor the condition of your dental crowns and bridges.
Dental Crowns and Bridges
Restore Your Smile With Durability
Tips to Maximize Crown and Bridge Longevity
The following are a few tips from specialized dentists that can help increase the longevity of your chosen restorative treatment option.
- The lifespan of dental crowns and bridges can be maximized by opting for oral hygiene habits which involve brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily.
- The patient needs to avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods that can damage restorations.
- Specialized dentists recommend that their patients use a nightguard that can assist them in increasing the longevity. This is often suggested to ones with a grinding or clenching habit to reduce excessive wear.
- Visiting your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and examinations can further enhance your oral well-being.
- Address any issues like looseness, cracks, or discomfort promptly with your dentist.
In The End
Dental crowns and bridges, being an essential dental treatment option, can last longer by incorporating good oral hygiene habits in your daily routine. Notably, the time span of 10 to 15 years is common, but it can last longer, saving you both time and money. Moreover, common factors that influence your well-being should never be ignored. Therefore, it is recommended by specialized dentists to maintain care and regular dental visits.
Why Choose Supreme Smiles?
Supreme Smiles Dentistry is a modern family dental clinic that helps you resolve any dental issues with a tailored approach. We offer a comfortable environment to all our patients, listen carefully to their concerns, and then provide comprehensive dental services with advanced cutting-edge technology. We believe in building lasting relationships and treating every patient with utmost care.