Dental crowns and bridges are essential restorations that offer a solution for damaged or missing teeth, providing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. At BlueJay Family Dental in Council Bluffs, IA, Dr. Steven Fidone and his team regularly help patients regain their smiles through these procedures. While crowns and bridges are long-lasting, they are not invincible. Knowing how to care for them, understanding their durability, and recognizing when they need to be replaced are crucial for maintaining oral health.
The longevity of dental crowns and bridges is influenced by multiple factors such as material type, oral hygiene practices, and even lifestyle choices. Generally, crowns and bridges can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. However, with proper care, some can endure for 20 years or more.
Materials Matter
The type of material used in crafting crowns and bridges plays a key role in their durability:
- Porcelain: Known for its natural look, porcelain crowns offer excellent aesthetics but are more susceptible to chipping, especially for patients who grind their teeth.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM): This hybrid offers strength and natural appearance but can experience wear over time.
- Gold or metal alloys: These materials are incredibly durable and less prone to wear but may lack the natural tooth appearance many patients prefer.
Bite Forces and Lifestyle Choices
Daily habits significantly impact the lifespan of your crown or bridge. Chewing on hard objects (like ice or pens), teeth grinding, or using teeth as tools can prematurely damage your dental work. Even the way you brush or floss can affect the longevity of your restoration.
Moreover, crowns and bridges in the back of the mouth—where bite forces are stronger—may wear out faster than those in the front.
Maintenance Tips: Keeping Crowns and Bridges Strong
While crowns and bridges do not decay like natural teeth, the supporting structures—such as gums and the tooth beneath a crown—are still vulnerable to decay and gum disease. A strong maintenance routine is essential for extending the life of your dental work.
1. Brush and Floss Diligently
Even though the restoration is artificial, you still need to brush and floss just as thoroughly as with natural teeth. Bacterial plaque can accumulate along the gum line, potentially leading to gum disease, which compromises the structure supporting your crowns and bridges. For bridges, using interdental brushes or floss threaders can help clean under the bridge.
2. Regular Dental Checkups
Routine visits to Dr. Fidone at BlueJay Family Dental are essential for monitoring the condition of your crowns and bridges. The dental team can check for early signs of damage or wear, and they may recommend adjustments to prevent further issues. Regular professional cleanings also help maintain the health of the gums surrounding your restoration.
3. Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods
Crowns and bridges can crack, break, or dislodge when subjected to excessive force. Avoid chewing on hard foods like nuts or ice, and be cautious with sticky foods like caramel, which can dislodge a crown or bridge.
4. Wear a Night Guard if Necessary
For patients who grind their teeth at night, wearing a night guard is crucial. Grinding can place enormous pressure on crowns and bridges, causing them to wear down more quickly or even crack.
Durability and Redo’s: Signs It’s Time for Replacement
While crowns and bridges are built to last, they are not permanent. Understanding the signs of wear or damage will help you determine when it’s time for a replacement.
1. Visible Wear or Damage
If you notice cracks, chips, or wear on your crown or bridge, it’s time to consult Dr. Fidone. Even small chips can compromise the structural integrity, leading to further damage. A damaged crown or bridge should be replaced promptly to avoid complications like infection.
2. Gum Recession or Decay
Although crowns and bridges do not decay, the supporting tooth or surrounding gum can still develop problems. Gum recession can expose the tooth root or the edge of the crown, making it more susceptible to decay or infection. If this happens, a crown or bridge replacement might be necessary after addressing the underlying issue.
3. Sensitivity or Pain
Discomfort or pain around a crowned or bridged tooth could be a sign of underlying problems such as a cracked tooth or root infection. In these cases, the crown may need to be removed for further treatment before a new one is placed.
4. Loose or Unstable Restoration
Over time, the cement holding a crown or bridge in place can wear away, causing the restoration to feel loose or unstable. If a crown or bridge comes off or shifts easily, it’s time for a redo.
When to Consider Replacing Your Crown or Bridge
As dental materials improve, so do the options for replacing older crowns and bridges. Here are key instances where replacement may be necessary:
- Outdated Materials: Older metal or gold crowns may no longer match the aesthetics of surrounding teeth. Upgrading to a porcelain or ceramic crown can improve your smile’s appearance.
- Wear and Tear: Even with meticulous care, crowns and bridges experience wear over time. If your restoration looks worn, replacing it can enhance both function and appearance.
- Gum Health Changes: Significant gum recession or periodontal issues around a crown or bridge may necessitate a replacement, especially if the fit has been compromised.
Why Regular Maintenance Extends Lifespan
Regular visits to BlueJay Family Dental ensure that your crowns and bridges stay in top condition. Preventive care can catch issues early, allowing you to address them before a full replacement is required. Professional cleanings, exams, and even minor adjustments can dramatically extend the lifespan of your restoration.
The Long-Term Benefits of Proactive Care
Proactive care doesn’t just extend the lifespan of your crowns and bridges—it saves you time, money, and discomfort in the long run. Maintaining your oral health through consistent hygiene and professional care means fewer surprises and a more comfortable, confident smile.
Taking the time to preserve the quality of your dental work pays off, allowing you to enjoy a strong, healthy smile for many years.
A Fresh Start: Deciding on Replacements
When your crown or bridge reaches the end of its life, replacing it with updated materials can offer improved comfort, functionality, and aesthetics. BlueJay Family Dental in Council Bluffs, IA, is here to guide you through every step, from routine maintenance to deciding when it’s time for a new restoration. Dr. Steven Fidone and his team are committed to providing durable, long-lasting results that keep your smile healthy and beautiful.
Sources:
- Christensen, G. J. (2010). Longevity of Posterior Teeth Restorations. Journal of the American Dental Association.
- Goodacre, C. J., Bernal, G., Rungcharassaeng, K., & Kan, J. Y. (2003). Clinical Complications in Fixed Prosthodontics. The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry.
- Pjetursson, B. E., Tan, K., Lang, N. P., Bragger, U., Egger, M., & Zwahlen, M. (2004). A Systematic Review of the Survival and Complication Rates of Fixed Partial Dentures After an Observation Period of at Least 5 Years. Clinical Oral Implants Research.