How Long Does a Crown Last?

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When people talk about dental crowns, they may talk about the procedure or the aesthetics of the crown. What they don’t always talk about is the long-term ramifications. When people hear about crowns breaking or chipping, only then will they ask how long a crown in Las Cruces, NM lasts. We’ll look at the average lifespan, as well as what you can do to maintain it.

Crowns Can Last 30 Years Or More

In fact, some lucky people see their crown last their whole lifetimes. However, the average lifespan is usually lower, around 15 – 25 years. The reason behind the discrepancy can vary. For some people, it’s a matter of care. Poorly maintained crowns may only last a few years. For others, it’s a matter of quality. If you’re choosing a composite crown, they typically don’t last as long as a porcelain crown. Finally, there are cases where even the more conscientious of brushers and flossers still lose a piece of the crown along the way.

What You Can Do

A dentist in Las Cruces, NM, may not always prepare you for having to replace a crown in the near future, but they should tell you what you can do to take care of it over the years:

  • Pay special attention to the gum line of a crowned tooth while you’re flossing.
  • Avoid hard candy, biting your nails, or chewing on ice. Also, avoid clenching your teeth (this may mean wearing a mouthguard at night).
  • Ensure you visit your dentist at least twice a year for checkups and cleaning.

Find a Dentist in Las Cruces

At Dental Associates, PA, it’s our job to help you get the most from every dental procedure. Contact us today to learn more about how to help your crown last a lifetime.

Can I Get a Same Day Crown After an Implant?  

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If you’re getting an implant, you may have a number of questions about the treatment, the crown, and the results of the procedure. One major concern you might have is time: how long will it take before you can get back to your routine? The good news is that it is possible to get a same-day crown in Las Cruces, NM, but you should know a few things about it before making an appointment.

The Traditional Route

The traditional implant procedure starts with putting the implant in the jaw, and then letting it take root. Before attaching the permanent crown to the tooth, the dentist wants the implant to fuse with the bone. The dentist uses an impression of the mouth to construct the crown, and it takes about 4 – 6 months for the patient to heal so that a permanent crown can be attached.

Same-Day Crowns

For those who would prefer to get the procedure done sooner than later, same-day crowns are available. Known as Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics (CEREC), the dentist will create a permanent crown in the office using a digital impression. (It’s typically a 3-D model that’s used to design the crown.) After the blueprints are sent to a milling machine, the crown can be produced. It takes mere minutes for this all to happen. Once it’s done, the dentist can fit the abutment to your gums.

A Dentist in Las Cruces, NM

If you’re looking for a dentist in Las Cruces, NM with the technology needed for a same-day crown, Dental Associates, PA can be of service. Not every dentist’s office will have the same types of services, so it’s important to choose one who keeps up with the most effective treatment options.