Dental crowns are a popular and effective solution for restoring damaged, decayed, or weakened teeth. They provide both strength and aesthetic improvement, giving patients a durable and natural-looking tooth restoration. But one common question many patients ask is: How long do dental crowns last? The answer depends on several factors, including the material used, your oral hygiene habits, and how you care for the crown over time.
Average Lifespan of a Dental Crown
On average, dental crowns last between 10 to 15 years, though many can last even longer with proper care. Some crowns have been known to remain functional for 20 years or more. The longevity of your crown largely depends on the type of material it’s made from and how well you maintain it.
Types of Crown Materials and Their Durability
Porcelain or ceramic crowns: These are the most aesthetically pleasing and blend well with natural teeth. They are often used for front teeth and typically last about 10 to 15 years. While strong, they are more prone to chipping than metal-based crowns.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) crowns: These offer the strength of metal with the appearance of porcelain. They are durable and can last 10 to 15 years, but the porcelain overlay may wear down over time or reveal the metal edge as gums recede.
Gold or metal crowns: These are the most durable option and can last well over 20 years. While not as tooth-colored, they are incredibly resistant to wear and are often used for molars where strength matters more than aesthetics.
Zirconia crowns: A newer option, zirconia is both strong and aesthetically appealing. These crowns are becoming more popular due to their long lifespan, often 15 years or more, and minimal wear on opposing teeth.
Factors That Affect Crown Longevity
Several lifestyle and oral health factors play a role in how long your dental crown will last:
- Oral hygiene: Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings help prevent decay and gum disease, which can weaken the tooth under the crown.
- Teeth grinding (bruxism): Constant grinding or clenching can cause premature wear or even cracking of the crown.
- Biting habits: Chewing on hard objects like ice, pens, or fingernails can damage crowns.
- Diet: A diet high in sugary or acidic foods can lead to decay around the crown’s margins.
- Placement of the crown: Crowns on back teeth (molars) tend to wear out faster due to heavier chewing forces compared to crowns on front teeth.
When to Replace a Dental Crown
Even the best crowns won’t last forever. Signs you may need a replacement include:
- Pain or sensitivity.
- Visible damage or cracks.
- Loosening of the crown.
- Receding gums or decay around the base.
Dental crowns are a long-lasting investment in your smile, typically serving you well for 10 to 15 years or more. With the right care, some can even last decades. By maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding harmful habits, and visiting your dentist regularly, you can help extend the life of your dental crown and protect your overall oral health.
About the Author
Dr. Chung Chien Hsia is a graduate of the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine. His ongoing education journey led him to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, where he became certified to administer nitrous oxide sedation and took a maxicourse, a 300-hour interdisciplinary program combining lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on sessions to cover all aspects of treating patients who are candidates for dental implants. If you’re interested in a durable restoration for a damaged tooth or teeth, Dr. Hsia and our team can outfit you with long-lasting dental crowns. Just schedule your appointment online or call us at (214) 432-1133.
