Dental crowns are a common and effective solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. These custom-made caps fit snugly over your existing tooth, providing strength, protection, and an improved appearance. If you’re considering getting a dental crown, you might wonder, “How long will it last?” Generally, dental crowns last between 5 and 15 years. However, this is just an estimate. Several factors can significantly impact a crown’s lifespan, including the material used, your oral hygiene habits, and lifestyle choices. At Radiance Artistic Dental & Wellness Center in Boulder, CO, we believe in empowering our patients with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their dental health.
This article will explore the factors influencing the longevity of dental crowns so you can take proactive steps to maximize their lifespan and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
What is the Average Lifespan of a Dental Crown?
As mentioned earlier, the average lifespan of a dental crown is between 5 and 15 years.
However, it’s essential to understand that this range is quite broad, and the actual lifespan of your crown can vary based on several factors that we’ll discuss in detail.
Think of it like the lifespan of tires on a car – some drivers get 20,000 miles, while others get 60,000+ miles based on driving habits and maintenance!
Types of Dental Crown Materials and Their Lifespans
The material used to create your dental crown plays a significant role in its durability and longevity.
Here’s a breakdown of common crown materials and their typical lifespans:
Metal (Gold, Palladium): Metal crowns, especially those made from gold or palladium, are known for their exceptional strength and durability. They can withstand significant biting forces and are less prone to chipping or cracking.
- Lifespan: 15-20+ years.
- Drawbacks: The primary disadvantage is their metallic appearance, which may not be ideal for visible teeth.
Porcelain & Ceramic: Porcelain and ceramic crowns are popular for their natural-looking appearance, closely mimicking the color and translucency of real teeth.
- Lifespan: 10-15 years.
- Drawbacks: While aesthetically pleasing, they may not be as strong as metal crowns and can be more susceptible to chipping or cracking under heavy biting forces.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM): PFM crowns combine the strength of a metal base with the aesthetic appeal of a porcelain overlay.
- Lifespan: Around 15 years.
- Drawbacks: A potential issue is the possibility of the porcelain chipping off the metal base over time, and a dark line may become visible at the gumline if the gums recede.
Zirconia: Zirconia crowns are a newer option gaining popularity for their excellent strength, durability, and natural appearance.
- Lifespan: Can match or exceed metal.
- Drawbacks: Can be more abrasive to opposing teeth than other materials.
Resin: Resin crowns are typically the least expensive option but are also the least durable. They are often used as a temporary solution.
- Lifespan: 5-10 years.
- Drawbacks: More prone to wear and fracture compared to other materials.
Key Factors That Affect Dental Crown Longevity
Beyond the material of the crown itself, several factors related to your oral health and habits significantly influence how long your crown will last:
Oral Hygiene:
Proper oral hygiene is paramount. Plaque and bacteria can accumulate around the crown’s margins, leading to decay of the underlying tooth structure.
- Recommendations: Brush at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily (paying special attention to the gumline around the crown), and use an antimicrobial mouthwash. Regular dental cleanings are also crucial.
Dietary Habits:
Your diet can also impact crown longevity.
- Recommendations: Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can potentially damage or dislodge the crown. Limit sugary foods and drinks, as they contribute to tooth decay around the crown margins.
Bruxism (Teeth Grinding):
Grinding or clenching your teeth, especially at night, can put excessive pressure on your crown, leading to microfractures and premature wear.
- Recommendations: If you grind your teeth, ask your dentist about a custom-fitted night guard to protect your crown. Stress-reduction techniques can also help.
Crown Location and Bite Forces:
Crowns on molars (back teeth) generally experience more biting force than crowns on front teeth.
- Recommendations: Your dentist will consider the location of the crown when recommending a material to ensure it can withstand the forces in that area.
Regular Dental Check-ups:
Regular dental visits are essential for monitoring the condition of your crown and identifying any potential problems early on.
- Recommendations: Schedule professional cleanings and examinations at least twice a year.
Overall Oral Health:
Existing dental problems, such as gum disease, can compromise the support for your crown and shorten its lifespan.
- Recommendations: Address any underlying dental issues promptly to maintain the integrity of your crown.
Lifestyle Habits:
Certain habits, such as nail-biting, chewing on ice, or using your teeth as tools, can damage your crown.
- Recommendations: Avoid these habits to protect your crown.
Recognizing the Signs That a Crown Needs Replacement
Even with the best care, dental crowns may eventually need replacement. Be aware of these signs that your crown may be failing:
- Visible Damage: Cracks, chips, or noticeable wear on the crown’s surface.
- Looseness or Instability: If the crown feels loose or moves when you bite down, it needs attention. This can allow bacteria to infiltrate and cause decay.
- Pain or Sensitivity: Pain when biting down or sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures could indicate a problem, such as decay under the crown or nerve damage.
- Gum Recession: If the gums around the crown are receding, it could be a sign of gum disease or a poorly fitting crown.
- Changes in Bite: If your bite feels different or uncomfortable, it could indicate that the crown has shifted or is damaged.
- Age of the Crown: Even if you don’t notice any problems, consider having your crown evaluated if it’s been in place for 10-15 years.
Actionable Care Plan to Maximize Crown Lifespan
Here’s a simple, actionable plan to help you maximize the lifespan of your dental crown:
Daily Oral Hygiene Routine:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily, paying attention to the crown margins.
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash.
Dietary Modifications:
- Limit hard, sticky, and sugary foods.
- Drink plenty of water to rinse away food particles.
Bruxism Management:
- Wear a custom-fitted night guard if you grind your teeth.
- Practice stress-reduction techniques.
Regular Dental Visits:
- Schedule professional cleanings and check-ups every six months.
- Discuss any concerns with your dentist promptly.
The Link Between Crown Longevity and Dental Implant Success (If Applicable)
Dental implants are a popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth. In many cases, a crown is placed on top of the implant to provide a natural-looking and functional replacement tooth.
The longevity of the crown is crucial for the long-term success of the dental implant. If the crown fails, it can put stress on the implant and potentially lead to its failure.
Therefore, proper maintenance of the crown is essential for maintaining the health and stability of the dental implant.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you experience any of the signs of a failing crown mentioned above, or if you have any concerns about your crown, it’s important to see your dentist promptly. Early detection and treatment of problems can often prevent more extensive and costly repairs.
At Radiance Artistic Dental & Wellness Center, we are committed to providing our patients with the highest quality dental care.
If you are in the Boulder, CO area and need a crown replacement or have any concerns about your existing crowns, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with us. Call us at 303-447-2281.
Conclusion
The lifespan of a dental crown is influenced by a combination of factors, including the material used, your oral hygiene habits, and lifestyle choices. By understanding these factors and taking proactive steps to care for your crown, you can significantly extend its lifespan and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Remember, regular dental visits are essential for monitoring the condition of your crown and addressing any potential problems early on.
With proper care and maintenance, your dental crown can provide you with years of reliable service.
