How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dentists sometimes recommend dental crowns for teeth damaged from dental decay or physical trauma. Crowns are restorations dentists permanently fix on teeth to restore their shape, structure, and functionality. These restorations are custom-made to fit your teeth and mimic the natural contours of your teeth.
If you’re slated to get crowns, it’s only natural to wonder how long they last. That way, you can compare them to alternative restorative treatments like dental implants and others. Below, we’ll explore how long dental crowns last and how you can prolong their longevity. Without further ado, let’s dive straight into it.
Dental Crown Lifespan
It's hard to estimate the exact lifespan of dental crowns, given the many factors that affect their longevity. However, dental crowns generally last for five to fifteen years, depending on the type of dental crowns and how well you care for them. Below is a breakdown of the different types of dental crowns and their respective lifespans.
- Metal crowns: Metal crowns are the sturdiest and most durable dental crowns, typically lasting a lifetime, provided you maintain proper oral hygiene. They're typically made from gold and stainless steel and can withstand the wear and tear of chewing and teeth grinding.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns: These are also durable dental crowns consisting of a metal alloy interior and a porcelain exterior. PFM crowns combine the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain. They usually last ten to fifteen years before you need to replace them.
- Porcelain or ceramic crowns: Porcelain and ceramic crowns mimic the natural color of teeth but may not last as long as their metal counterparts. They last five to ten years but can last up to fifteen with proper care.
- Resin crowns: Resin crowns are temporary solutions dentists usually place on your teeth if you can’t afford porcelain or metal crowns. They only last three to five years but are inexpensive and easy to replace.
Factors Affecting the Lifespan of a Dental Crown
As mentioned, several factors impact how long your dental crowns last. Some of these factors include:
- State of Natural Teeth: How much of your natural tooth you have left determines how long your dental crown will last. The more natural tooth structure you have left, the longer your dental crowns will last.
- The location of the affected tooth: Dental crowns on teeth at the back of the mouth don’t last as long as those in the front. That’s because teeth at the back of the mouth do most of the chewing and are more predisposed to wear than those at the front.
- Bruxism and Teeth Grinding: Dental crowns last a shorter time on people with bruxism, clenching, and teeth grinding. That’s because grinding and clenching accelerate the wear and tear on dental crowns, reducing their lifespan.
- Oral hygiene habits: Neglecting proper oral hygiene could lead to dental decay in the teeth, supporting the crowns. The deterioration of the supporting teeth means the crowns won’t have a solid foundation and will eventually fail.
Talk to Us!
The longevity of your dental crowns largely depends on your dental hygiene habits. Proper habits and regular dentist check-ups will significantly contribute to extending the life of your dental crowns. Taking good care of your crowns and maintaining overall oral health are key to ensuring their longevity and durability.
Contact us at Locklear Dentistry to schedule a consultation. Our skilled and experienced dentists in Greensboro will determine the best dental crowns offering proper aesthetics, strength, and durability.
