How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

Dental crowns are one of the most popular dental restorations, designed to improve the functionality and aesthetics of patient’s smiles. If you are considering getting dental crowns, you might want to know how long dental crowns last. To answer this question, different factors must be evaluated. However, dental crowns usually last between 5 to 15 years under proper care. In this article, we are going to take a deeper look at these popular restorative options to help you in the decision-making process.

Comparing the Lifespan of Different Types of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are offered in different types. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks. Here, we have designed a table to help you compare dental crown types.

Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Dental Crowns

The lifespan of dental crowns is affected by various factors, including the material used, Your lifestyle, and your daily diet and habits.

1. Material of the Crown:

The material of dental crowns plays a crucial role in their lifespan. Metal crowns last longer than other types because of their strength and durability, while porcelain and zirconia’s lifespan is shorter.

2. Oral Hygiene and Regular Dental Visits:

Adhering to regular oral hygiene practices plays a significant role in the lifespan of the crown. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste and using dental floss can remove bacteria and prevent decay around the crowned teeth.

3. Eating Habits and Lifestyle Choices

Chewing and biting on hard objects can cause a chip or crack in your crown. Moreover, some habits such as tooth grinding affect the lifespan of your crown.

Read More: Top Dental Problems That Dental Crowns Can Fix

Caring for Your Dental Crown to Extend Its Lifespan

If you want to get a dental crown, you should know that following aftercare instructions and maintenance tips can increase the lifespan of your crown and prevent complications.

• Proper Oral Hygiene with Crowns: Adhering to regular oral hygiene practices plays a crucial role in keeping your dental crowns in good condition. Gently brush your teeth twice a day and use dental floss to prevent plaque buildup, especially around the area of your dental crown.
• Avoiding Habits That Could Damage Your Crown: Some habits, such as biting on hard objects or chewing ice, can cause chipped or cracked crowns. Additionally, teeth grinding puts your crowns at risk.
• Regular Checkups and Maintenance: During dental checkups, your dentist can examine your oral health and monitor your crown’s condition. They catch issues at an early stage and make the required adjustments to ensure your dental crowns work well.

Here is Linda’s experience:

“After getting dental crowns, I was a little worried about the lifespan of my crowns, but my dentist gave me simple tips to care for them. I avoided hard foods and followed regular oral hygiene practices. It’s been 7 years now, and my crown is still in perfect condition.”

Read More: Alternatives to Dental Crowns: What Are Your Options?

What to Do When Your Crown Shows Signs of Wear

Dental crowns may wear down over time. Being informed about the signs of wear can lead to timely action.

A: How to Recognize a Worn or Damaged Crown

A worn crown is usually identified by some symptoms. Patients usually notice visible signs, such as cracks, chips, and discoloration. Moreover, experiencing pain and sensitivity might indicate the crown is no longer effective. Some of our patients also complain about gum irritation. It might happen when the crown is not correctly fitted.

Read More: How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost?

B: When to Replace or Repair Your Crown

Minor damages can be repaired without replacing the crown. However, individuals with severely worn or cracked crowns might need to get new crowns. Additionally, you should consider that dental crowns typically last between 5 and 15 years. If your crown is older than that, it might be time to replace it. Moreover, there are various reasons why a dental crown may need to be replaced, such as fractures or wear and tear, dental decay, esthetics, or advanced prosthetics.

C: Options for Replacing or Refitting a Crown

During checkups, your dentist thoroughly assesses your mouth to determine whether you need a new crown or an adjustment. With the new technologies and methods, replacements are more precise and natural-looking than ever. For outdated crowns, dentists typically recommend replacement. You can choose from materials like porcelain, zirconia, or metal crowns. Making minor adjustments and re-cementing are also effective in improving the crown’s fit. 

How Dental Crowns Are Made and Placed

The procedure of getting dental crowns begins with an initial consultation with your dentist. They evaluate your dental needs to recommend the type that fits your needs best. The next step is taking impressions and sending them to the laboratory. In the lab, they make dental crowns based on the size, shape, and natural color of your teeth. Once it gets ready, your dentist bonds the crown to your weakened tooth with dental cement.

At Woodbridge Smile Centre, premium dental crowns in Woodbridge are offered to improve and restore oral functionality and boost confidence. Our experienced dentist and caring staff perform the entire procedure, creating a good memory of dental treatment for patients.

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