When you invest in a new dental crown, you want to know that it’s going to last. After all, a crown plays a crucial role in your oral health by protecting your tooth and restoring your smile. If your crown fails to hold up over time, you’ll need to find your way to a dentist’s chair pronto to avoid serious consequences. So, how long do dental crowns last? The answer depends on several factors, including the material of the crown, how well it’s installed, how well you care for your teeth, and even your daily habits. Scroll down to explore the typical lifespan of different types of crowns and learn how to ensure your crown survives for as long as possible.
Factors That Influence Your Crown’s Lifespan
Before we answer the titular question, let’s discuss some of the key factors that can influence a dental crown’s lifespan:
Material Type
Most dental crowns are made from ceramic or porcelain (a subset of ceramic) because they’re tooth-colored and provide a natural look. Both materials typically last around 10 to 15 years with proper care. Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns offer a similar lifespan. While gold or metal alloy crowns are highly durable, often lasting 20 years or more, they’re less commonly used because they’re more visually conspicuous.
Location of the Crown
Your back teeth have a more challenging job than your front teeth, as they’re responsible for chewing. Because they face more pressure, they wear down more quickly. So, a crown on a molar will likely not last as long as one placed on a front tooth.
The Quality & Installation of the Crown
Your dentist’s experience and skill will also play a role. If your dentist doesn’t fabricate and fit the crown properly and securely bond it to the underlying tooth, it may fail prematurely. A well-fitting crown that’s skillfully cemented in place is less likely to loosen, shift, or fall out.
Oral Hygiene Habits
By brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing once daily, and keeping up with your twice-yearly checkups, you can protect your crown and the underlying tooth. Just because your crown isn’t made of enamel, that doesn’t mean it requires less care. Treat your crown like all your other teeth.
Health of the Underlying Tooth
Don’t forget about the natural tooth sitting beneath the crown. If that tooth develops decay or infection, the crown may need to be replaced.
Your Bite & Chewing Pressure
Do you grind your teeth? Do you enjoy chewing on ice? Do you ever bite your fingernails or pens? Do you enjoy using your teeth as tools? Habits like these can damage your crown. If you suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding), talk to your dentist and/or doctor about treatment options.
Lifestyle Factors
Finally, various daily habits can also shorten the lifespan of a crown over time. For example, smoking, consuming a high-sugar diet, and eating hard or sticky foods can all harm the health of your crown.
How to Maintain Your Crown
As you can see, numerous factors affect the health and longevity of a dental crown. Some are in your control, and some aren’t. To make sure your crown lasts as long as possible, follow these tips:
- Practice excellent oral hygiene by brushing twice daily and flossing once daily.
- Schedule twice-yearly dental check-ups.
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth while sleeping.
- Avoid smoking.
- Limit your consumption of sugar.
- Choose an experienced, reputable dentist.
_____
So, how long do dental crowns last? If all goes well, a porcelain or ceramic crown should last about 10 to 15 years.
If you’re looking for an experienced, reliable, and friendly dentist in or near Springfield, Missouri, contact Wilkinson Dental. Our team will give you the personalized treatment you deserve using state-of-the-art technology. Schedule your first appointment today by calling 417-708-0556 or requesting an appointment online. We look forward to hearing from you!