Crowning Achievement: How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

Dental crowns, the tried-and-true method for restoring severely damaged teeth, are a robust treatment option. These porcelain “caps” are designed to slide over existing tooth structures, ensuring aesthetics and stability. But how long do they last exactly?

If you want to learn how long you can expect your dental crown to last, continue reading. You’ll learn what factors can increase or decrease their longevity, as well as the typical lifespan of the prosthetic.

What Affects the Lifespan of My Dental Crowns?

Though most dental crowns last about the same amount of time (3 – 15 years) Several factors can make or break them in terms of longevity. Some are more important than others. Here are some things to consider:

Material Matters

The material used to make your dental crown can affect longevity. However, modern dental technology makes this choice less important in terms of longevity, and more about aesthetics.

Common materials include porcelain, metal, and porcelain-fused-to-metal. Each has its advantages and disadvantages in terms of aesthetics, but all three last about the same amount of time.

Oral Hygiene

A more important factor for longevity is your level of oral hygiene. Maintaining this is paramount for the longevity of dental crowns. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings contribute to the staying power of your prosthetics.

Daily Wear and Tear

The force and pressure exerted during biting and chewing can impact the lifespan of dental crowns as well. Avoiding habits like teeth grinding and foods that are hard or crunchy can prolong their durability.

Location of the Crown

Crowns on molars tend to endure more stress due to their role in chewing. As a consequence, they may have a slightly shorter lifespan compared to crowns on front teeth.

How Can You Tell When a Dental Crown Needs Replacement?

It can be difficult to determine when to replace a dental crown without a dentist’s examination. However, there are some signs to watch for:

• Cracks or Fractures – A visual inspection yields any visible cracks or fractures in the crown.
• Discomfort or Sensitivity – You feel some increased sensitivity or discomfort while biting or chewing.
• Changes in Appearance – Noticeable changes in color or appearance may indicate issues that need to be addressed by your dentist.

How Can You Extend the Life of Your Dental Crown?

There are several ways you can increase the lifespan of your dental crowns:

• Adhere to Oral Care Practices – As mentioned above, oral hygiene plays a big part in keeping your dental crowns healthy. Continue to brush twice a day and floss every night.
• Protect Against Grinding – If you know that you have a problem with grinding your teeth, consider using a night guard. This will prevent teeth grinding while you sleep.
• Regular Dental Checkups – Schedule routine dental checkups for professional evaluation and preventive care.

While the lifespan of dental crowns varies, proactive oral care and regular dental checkups can help keep them around longer. Understanding the factors influencing their longevity lets you make informed decisions that will dramatically affect them for the better. Continue to care for your crowns and they’ll keep doing their jobs well in return!

About the Practice

At Center for Advanced Cosmetic Dentistry, you’ll find a team of three fantastic dentists with years of experience to care for your teeth. They use the latest dental technology to ensure your treatment is fast, affordable, and convenient. Whether you need a dental crown or a whole-mouth restoration, they have you covered. To schedule an appointment, call (609) 561-0058 or visit the website to see what other services they provide.