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Also known as caps, dental crowns protect vulnerable teeth like a helmets protect heads. Unlike helmets, dental crowns are placed as permanent protection for the tooth. Advances in technology have made crowns able to last longer and longer. In the past, dental crowns were made from an alloy of metals; they were more likely to break and succumb to decay. Modern dental crowns are made out of porcelain. Porcelain not only matches the color of teeth much more than its metal predecessor, but porcelain is much more likely to have a lifespan similar to a natural tooth. Just like with natural teeth, the better you care for them, the longer they will last. 

No special maintenance required

Your dental crown can be treated and cared for just like your other teeth. Unlike the enamel of a real tooth, porcelain is not susceptible to decay from acid and bacteria. However, that does not mean that oral hygiene is no longer important. Oral hygiene is key to extending the life of your dental crown. There is still a risk of decay of the tooth where the crown and tooth meet. Brushing and flossing can keep decay at bay. Because of porcelain’s similarity to the structure of a real tooth, dental crowns can be cracked and damaged under the same conditions that could crack and damage a natural tooth.

Dentist check-ups are important

Regular visits to your dentist are important whether or not you have restorative care. But when you have it, your dentist will check on any existing dental work as well as the rest of your teeth. If your dental crown has sustained any damage or starts to show signs of wear, your dentist can check on it. A damaged crown exposes an already vulnerable tooth to more damage, infection, or decay.

You can extend the life of your dental crown

Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris of Mansfield Dentist Associates in Mansfield, TX can help your dental crown last longer. Call our office today at (817) 473-6227 to schedule a consultation. We treat patients from the Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, and Midlothian areas.