Getting a dental crown can feel like a big decision, and if you are considering a crown, you may have many questions. For instance, you might be wondering about their longevity. You’re investing in your smile, so you want it to last. The question, “How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?” is a common and important one.

It’s understandable to want this investment in your dental health to be a lasting one. Plus, who wants to keep fixing the same issue? While there’s no single magic number, most dental crowns last from 5 to 15 years, but a range of factors can affect this timeframe. Let’s explore what impacts the lifespan of dental crowns and the steps you can take to maximize their durability.

What Impacts How Long Dental Crowns Last?

The material used to create a dental crown significantly affects its lifespan. Each material offers different levels of strength and durability. For example, dental crowns can be made of gold, porcelain, zirconia, or even a combination of materials.

There are tradeoffs between the various materials. The location of the crown in your mouth also affects the wear and tear it experiences. And anyone seriously considering a dental crown should talk with a dental health professional to help determine what material works best for their situation.

Crown Materials and Their Durability

Gold crowns are known for their exceptional durability and long-term performance, often lasting well over a decade with proper care. While they’re a reliable choice for many patients, their metallic appearance may not be ideal for those seeking a more natural look.

Porcelain crowns are popular because they can beautifully match your natural teeth. While not quite as tough as gold, with good care, these often last 10 to 15 years. They tend to last a bit longer when placed on front teeth, as they are subjected to less force in these positions.

Zirconia crowns are renowned for their exceptional strength. A recent study indicated this material was least likely to crack under pressure. That makes zirconia crowns a great option for back teeth, which endure more intense bite forces.

Location, Location, Location

Consider the position of the crowned tooth within your mouth. For instance, molars, located at the back of your mouth, are responsible for grinding food during chewing.

This constant pressure will impact the crown over time. In contrast, a crown on a front tooth experiences significantly less daily stress.

Your Daily Habits Matter

Our daily oral hygiene practices play a significant role in any dentistry choice, including crowns. Consistent brushing and flossing help prevent tooth decay – and decay can compromise the seal between the crown and the tooth. Good oral hygiene habits help both the natural tooth and the crown last longer.

Other questions that you should consider include: Do you grind your teeth at night? Do you have a habit of biting your nails? Or, do you frequently crunch on hard candies or ice?

These habits exert extra force on your teeth, potentially damaging a crown. Addressing these habits gives your crown, and natural teeth, a better chance of lasting longer.

The Tooth Underneath is Important Too

Remember, a crown is essentially a “cap” that covers the existing natural tooth. The underlying tooth must provide a solid foundation for the crown.

If decay develops around the crown’s edges, problems can arise. And if you develop major issues with the underlying tooth, you may need a new crown.

How It’s Made Makes A Big Difference

For a crown to function well, a precise fit is essential. Correct placement requires excellent dental skills that compliment high-quality materials and manufacturing processes.

An improperly fitting crown is more susceptible to loosening or causing other problems later on. That’s why finding a skilled dentist with a proven track record can lead to better results. Explore all your dental crown options in north Georgia carefully.

Maximizing the Life of Your Dental Crown

We all want our teeth and crowns to last as long as possible. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to increase the longevity of this dental hardware.

The Power of Good Oral Hygiene

Brushing twice a day is a fundamental rule of oral health. It is something most are taught from a young age – and with good reason: It is the foundation of success for all oral health.

Flossing is equally crucial. It’s the only way to remove debris and plaque from between teeth, where serious issues can develop. 

Regular dental checkups are also important for addressing potential problems early on.

Dental Task Description
Brushing Twice daily
Flossing Removes buildup between teeth daily.
Regular Dentist Visits Allows for early detection and treatment of potential issues.

Watch Out for Those Bad Habits

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, often occurs during sleep, and many individuals are unaware of it. A custom mouthguard from your dentist can create a protective barrier and help deter the worst aspects of teeth grinding. Mouthguards can help you stop grinding your teeth altogether, but even if you continue to do so, wearing a mouthguard reduces the forces exerted on your teeth and crowns.

Nail biting, chewing ice, or crunching on hard candy can all contribute to chipping or cracking of the crown. And even if you don’t have a singularly catastrophic event, over time, these habits can shorten the crown’s lifespan.

Sometimes, Replacement is Needed

Even the best-made crowns aren’t meant to last forever. Regular dental visits help determine if your crown has issues or has reached the end of its lifespan. Whether it’s due to normal wear, a minor chip, or weakened cement, your dentist can advise you when it’s time to get your dental crown replaced.

When possible, many patients opt for dental implants instead of dental crowns. While certain situations may not make an implant feasible, the extended lifespan of dental implants often makes them a preferred choice.

Conclusion

At BGW Dental Group, we understand that investing in a dental crown is a long-term commitment to your oral health and confidence. While crowns can last a decade or more, their longevity depends on several factors—including the material used, your daily oral hygiene habits, and, importantly, the expertise of your dentist.

Our experienced team helps you make the best choices for your unique needs, ensuring your crown is built to last. By partnering with BGW and practicing proper care, you can extend the life of your crown and enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.

Ready to restore your smile with lasting results? Contact BGW Dental Group today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a stronger, more confident you.