So you’ve just returned from the dentist with a shiny new crown but are now worried about its longevity and care. Your worry begs to question, “How long does a tooth crown last?”
Dental crowns are a fairly standard restorative dental procedure used to repair or protect damaged or weakened teeth. These custom-made caps fit snugly over the visible portion of your tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. While crowns offer a durable and long-lasting solution, several factors can influence their longevity.
Let’s find out the answer to “How long does a tooth crown last?” and learn how you can extend the lifespan of your tooth crown.
What is the Purpose of a Tooth Crown?
First things first: what is the purpose of a tooth crown?
The main use of a dental crown is to provide structure and strength to a tooth when little of the original structure remains. Crowns are a simple restorative dental treatment that can restore, protect, and enhance teeth.
A dentist might recommend a crown to:
- Restore damaged teeth by providing structural support
- Protect a tooth after a root canal
- Enhance the look of discolored or misshapen teeth
- Provide anchor for dental bridges
- Cover dental implants
- Strengthen worn-down teeth
- Replace large fillings
Different Types of Tooth Crowns & Their Lifespan
Dental crowns come in various materials, each with its own particular lifespan.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns have a metal base covered with a layer of porcelain that matches the natural color of the teeth. They are strong and durable and can give your smile an aesthetic appearance, thanks to the porcelain coating.
The average lifespan of PFM crowns is 10 to 15 years with diligent care.
All-Ceramic
Made entirely of ceramic or porcelain, all-ceramic crowns offer the most accurate color match for your teeth. They are perfect for people who suffer from metal allergies. These crowns are biocompatible and give your teeth an aesthetically pleasing natural appearance.
The average lifespan of all-ceramic crowns is 10 to 15 years.
Gold Crowns
Made of gold or a gold alloy, gold crowns are considered to be the most durable among all tooth crowns. They are extremely strong and highly resistant to wear and tear.
The average lifespan of a gold crown can be 20 years or more.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconium dioxide is a very strong type of ceramic that is used to create high-strength and durable dental crowns. Though not as translucent as all-ceramic crowns, zirconia crowns give off a natural appearance and are highly resistant to chipping and cracking.
The average lifespan of zirconia crowns is 10 to 15 years or longer.
Composite Resin Crowns
Composite resin crowns are made from tooth-colored resin that blends seamlessly with the rest of your teeth. They are considered more cost-effective than the other options and have a lifespan of 5 to 7 years.
Factors that Determine How Long Your Tooth Crown Lasts
Material of the Crown
Different materials used to make crowns have varying strengths and resistance to wear and tear. For example, gold crowns and zirconia crowns are generally more durable than porcelain or composite resin crowns.
Oral Hygiene
Your oral hygiene practices help prevent or foster decay and gum disease around the dental crown, which can have a direct impact on the crown’s longevity.
Location of the Crown
Crowns on molars and premolars (back teeth) are prone to face more pressure from chewing than those on front teeth, which can affect their lifespan. Crowns on the back teeth are also harder to clean properly, which may increase the risk of decay around the tooth and lower longevity.
Condition of the Underlying Tooth
A tooth that is severely compromised may not hold a crown as well. For example, teeth that have undergone root canal treatment are more brittle, which might affect the lifespan of the crown unless properly bonded and reinforced.
Personal Habits
Using your teeth as tools to bite nails or open packages can damage crowns and have a negative impact on their longevity. Other bad habits, such as smoking or consuming a diet high in sugar, can contribute to decay and gum disease, lowering the chances of enjoying a long-lasting crown.
How to Extend The Longevity of Your Tooth Crown
Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
- Brush your teeth twice every day with fluoride toothpaste. Ensure you brush around the crown thoroughly to remove plaque and food particles.
- Using floss threaders or interdental brushes can help clean under the edges of the crown.
Regular Dental Check-ups
Schedule routine dental check-ups with your dentist for professional cleanings to prevent decay and gum disease. They can detect dental problems in the early stages and assist you in increasing the lifespan of your dental crowns.
Address Dental Issues Promptly
- Treat any signs of gum disease promptly.
- See your dentist immediately if your crown feels loose or damaged or if you experience any discomfort. Prompt repair can prevent more severe problems.
Choose the Right Crown Material
Depending on the location of the crown and your specific needs, some materials may be more suitable and durable than others. Discuss the best options with your dentist to ensure a long-lasting dental crown.
Takeaway
On average, dental crowns can last anywhere from 5 to 20 years or more, with materials like gold and zirconia typically offering greater durability compared to porcelain or composite resin.
By understanding and actively managing factors that influence the answer to the question, “How long does a tooth crown last?” you can maximize the lifespan and functionality of your dental crowns. With proper care and maintenance, your dental crowns can last over 30 years.
FAQ
What is the average lifespan of a dental crown?
The average lifespan of a dental crown typically ranges from 10 to 15 years. However, this can vary based on the material used and how well the crown is cared for. Good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and avoiding habits that could damage the crown can help extend its lifespan.
What factors can cause a dental crown to fail prematurely?
- Poor oral hygiene leading to decay or gum disease around the crowned tooth.
- Excessive force from habits like teeth grinding, chewing on hard objects, or using teeth to open packages.
- Inadequate dental care, such as infrequent check-ups or cleanings.
- Damage from eating hard or sticky foods that can crack or dislodge the crown.
- Issues with the underlying tooth structure, such as decay or lack of proper support.