When patients invest in dental crowns, one of the most common concerns is how long they will last. Understanding the expected longevity of your crowns can help you maintain them for longer and be financially prepared for their eventual replacement. This blog discusses the average lifespan of dental crowns and explains what you can do to keep them in pristine condition for as long as possible.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. It is essentially a dental prosthetic carefully manufactured to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, restoring functionality. Dental crowns can be made of various durable materials, including porcelain, metal alloys, ceramic, and a combination of multiple materials.
The Average Lifespan of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns typically last 5 – 15 years, but many patients can extend the lifespan of their crowns with proper maintenance and care. The variability of longevity depends on several key factors, the first of which is the choice of material.
Material Choices
The material used to create dental crowns can significantly impact their durability. Various materials have unique characteristics that can make them appeal to different people.
- Metal Alloys: Metal crowns are the most durable option and can last 20+ years. However, their appearance typically makes this material more suitable for back teeth.
- Ceramic or Porcelain: These materials offer the most natural appearance because they can be precisely color-matched to blend in with your natural teeth. Depending on their location in the mouth, they can last for 5-15 years.
- Porcelain Fused to Metal: The combination of durability and aesthetics makes these crowns a popular choice. The lifespan for combined crowns is generally 10 – 15 years.
Factors That Can Affect the Longevity of Dental Crowns
The lifespan of dental crowns relies heavily on the patient’s ability to care for them properly. While exceedingly durable, crowns require meticulous care and consistent maintenance to reach their maximum lifespan. With diligent care, patients can often exceed the standard lifespan and enjoy their dental crowns for many years.
Oral Hygiene Habits
The most significant factor affecting crown longevity is daily oral care. Brushing and flossing twice a day are vital habits that protect your dental crowns and natural teeth. Sporadic dental care can lead to bacteria buildup and trapped food particles that may contribute to premature damage to your crowns.
Grinding
Patients who clench or grind their teeth may shorten the lifespan of their crowns due to increased pressure. Wearing a mouth guard at night can protect your crowns and natural teeth from grinding damage.
Location in the Mouth
Crowns on back teeth typically experience more force when chewing and may, therefore, wear faster than crowns on front teeth, reducing their lifespan. However, front teeth are more vulnerable to traumatic impacts from falls and biting into hard food, so it is recommended to be cautious and consider whether what you’re eating is safe for your crowns.
Diet and Lifestyle Choices
Some habits can significantly impact the longevity of dental crowns. For example, chewing ice, using your teeth as tools, smoking, and eating sugary foods can all irreparably damage your crowns, necessitating early replacement.
Signs Your Crown Needs Replacement
Several warning signs can indicate problems with your dental crowns. Should you experience any of these issues, it’s vital to see your dentist as soon as possible before the damage leads to infection or decay. The most common signs include:
- Pain or sensitivity when biting and chewing
- Visible chips or cracks
- A dark line where the crown meets the gum
- Loose or shifting crowns
- Receding gums around the crown
- Changes in your bite
Cost Considerations
Dental crowns can be a considerable investment for many patients who consider their long-term value a worthwhile expense. Patients with a tighter budget for dental care often find it helpful to:
- Maintain their dental insurance
- Have dental savings plans
- Budget for eventual replacement
- Discuss financing options with their dentist
Extending Your Crown’s Lifespan
It’s essential to follow the advice typically given by dentists to make the most of your dental crowns. Let’s recap your responsibilities as a dental crown patient:
- Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
- Brush twice a day
- Floss daily without pulling up around the crown
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash after brushing
- Regular Dental Check-Ups
- Visit your dentist at least twice a year
- Get regular dental cleanings
- Report any crown issues immediately
- Protect Your Teeth
- If you grind your teeth, wear a mouthguard every night
- Use a mouthguard during physical activities like impact sports
- Don’t use your teeth to open packets or unscrew lids
- Make Smart Choices About Your Diet
- Limit hard and sticky foods
- Reduce your intake of sugary snacks and drinks
- Avoid foods that cause extreme temperature changes
Partner With Dr. Nargiz Zadeh for Dental Crown Success
Dental crowns can last for many years and, in that time, will have an imperceptible impact on your life. As long as you understand the factors that can influence their lifespan, you can make choices that ensure you get the maximum benefits of your dental crowns.
Contact Dr. Nargiz Zadeh to schedule a consultation so we can discuss your options for dental crowns. Our goal is to help you rediscover a beautiful smile that you can enjoy for several years.