How To Make Your Dental Restorations Last in Brentwood, TN
This Article Will Address
- How long a restored tooth typically lasts
- Daily habits that help extend the life of dental restorations
- How to prevent habits that damage restorations
- How often to visit your dentist for maintenance
- Common signs that a crown or filling needs repair
- Additional care tips for lasting results
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Restoring Your Smile for the Long Run
Your dental restorations are an investment in your health and confidence. Whether you have a crown, veneer, bridge, or filling, these restorations are designed to restore strength, function, and appearance to your smile. However, their longevity depends largely on how you care for them at home and how consistently you see your dentist for maintenance.
At Brentwood Dental Center, Dr. Shelby Nelson helps patients protect their dental work through personalized education and preventive care. With the right habits and a little attention, your restorations can stay strong and beautiful for many years.
How Long Does a Restored Tooth Last?
Every restoration is unique, but there are general timeframes you can expect:
- Crowns: Typically last 10–15 years, though some last 20 years or more.
- Fillings: Usually last 5–10 years before replacement is needed.
- Veneers: Often last 10–20 years with proper care and no grinding habits.
- Implant Restorations: Can last 10 years or longer, and implants may last a lifetime.
Material quality, bite pressure, and personal habits all influence how long restorations endure. Dr. Nelson uses high-quality materials and advanced technology to help ensure each restoration provides lasting comfort and strength.
What Daily Habits Help Extend the Life of Dental Restorations?
Consistent oral hygiene is the most effective way to keep your restorations in excellent shape. You can extend their lifespan with simple, mindful routines such as:
- Brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste
- Flossing carefully to remove food and plaque around the restoration
- Rinsing with alcohol-free mouthwash to reduce bacteria and protect bonding materials
- Avoiding chewing on hard items like ice, pens, or fingernails
- Wearing a night guard if you grind your teeth while sleeping
At Brentwood Dental Center, we guide patients on proper brushing techniques and product choices to help protect their restorations between visits.
How Can I Stop Habits That Damage Dental Restorations?
Certain habits can shorten the life of your dental work without you realizing it. Clenching, grinding, and chewing hard objects all create stress on restorations and natural enamel.
To break these habits:
- Ask your dentist about a custom night guard to protect your teeth during sleep.
- Stay mindful of when you clench or grind your teeth during the day.
- Reduce stress through relaxation, exercise, or mindfulness techniques.
- Avoid using your teeth to open packaging or bite on objects.
If you suspect your restorations have been damaged, our office offers emergency dental care to provide quick repairs and prevent further complications.
How Often Should I Visit My Dentist to Maintain My Restorations?
Most patients should visit the dentist at least twice a year for exams and cleanings. These visits allow Dr. Nelson to:
- Check the integrity of crowns, fillings, and bonding
- Monitor gum health and alignment changes
- Identify early signs of wear or fracture
- Remove buildup that regular brushing cannot reach
Routine checkups are key to preventing small issues from becoming expensive repairs later. Our preventive approach ensures your dental restorations remain comfortable and functional for as long as possible.
What Are the Signs a Crown or Filling Needs Repair?
Recognizing early warning signs can save you time, money, and discomfort. You may need to schedule an appointment if you notice:
- Sensitivity to temperature or pressure
- A rough or sharp edge on a crown or filling
- Cracks, chips, or dark lines forming around the restoration
- Discomfort while chewing or brushing
If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t wait. Brentwood Dental Center provides same-day and emergency appointments for prompt evaluation and repair.
Additional Tips for Long-Lasting Restorations
A few extra precautions can make a significant difference in how your restorations age:
- Limit acidic or sugary drinks that erode surfaces over time.
- Avoid excessive coffee, tea, or wine to prevent discoloration.
- Drink plenty of water to maintain saliva flow, which protects both enamel and restorations.
- Consider professional cleanings and whitening to maintain an even, natural appearance.
We also encourage patients to ask about our aftercare checklists for specific restoration types to help keep their smiles healthy and strong.
When To Call Brentwood Dental Center
If your restoration feels loose, causes discomfort, or you notice visible changes, it’s best to schedule a visit. Acting early allows our team to fix small problems before they affect your bite or surrounding teeth.
At Brentwood Dental Center, we’re committed to helping our patients enjoy lasting results through high-quality materials, advanced techniques, and compassionate care. Whether you need a simple adjustment or full restoration, you can trust that your smile is in good hands.
Keep Your Restorations Strong With Brentwood Dental Center
Your restorations should enhance your confidence, not cause worry. With the right habits and professional care, they can last for many years. To protect your investment and keep your smile shining, schedule your next visit with Dr. Shelby Nelson at Brentwood Dental Center in Brentwood, TN. Call or book online today to schedule your next dental appointment and learn how we can help your restorations last a lifetime.
Sources
Dr. Shelby Nelson
Dr. Shelby Nelson, DMD, is a general and cosmetic dentist in Brentwood, TN, dedicated to helping patients achieve healthy, confident smiles with minimally invasive care. She is an active member of the Tennessee State Dental Association, the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Academy of Facial Esthetics, and the Spear Institute. Passionate about patient education, Dr. Nelson ensures individuals feel informed and comfortable throughout their dental care journey, always considering overall health and function in her treatment plans.