Dental crowns are among the most common restorative options for damaged or decayed teeth. Dental crowns offer a durable, natural-looking solution. But how long do crowns last? This is a question many people have when considering this dental procedure.
In this blog, we will examine what happens to dental crowns after implantation, what affects their longevity, and how to maintain them.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a type of “cap” that is placed over a tooth. A dentist places a dental crown on a tooth with a crack, damage, severe wear, or a cavity. Crowns can also be placed after a root canal procedure to restore the tooth’s appearance.
The Crowns are referred to as the visible portion of your tooth, as they are located above the gum line. It helps restore the tooth’s strength and shape.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Usually Last?
Most dental crowns last between 5 and 15 years. That’s the usual lifespan for a dental crown with normal use. However, many crowns last much longer with proper care. Some people retain their crowns for 20 to 25 years or longer.
In one long-term study, more than 2,000 crowns placed by a single dentist were examined. After 25 years, about 85% of those crowns were still working well. That demonstrates how durable crowns can be when properly placed and well-maintained.
Dental insurance plans often allow crown replacement every 5 to 8 years, but that doesn’t mean your crown needs to be replaced that soon. If it fits well and you take good care of it, your crown can last far beyond the insurance timeline.
How to Extend the Life of Your Dental Crown
One of the best ways to care for your crowned tooth is to observe proper oral practices. You can further extend the life of your crown by following these tips:
- Wear a custom-made night guard if you have a grinding habit. The custom night guard will reduce the grinding force and will prevent any cracks or fractures.
- Regular dental cleaning should be done every six months to ensure the removal of plaque around the crown in order to prevent decay or gum disease.
- Do not chew on hard substances such as ice, hard candy, or popcorn, which may damage the porcelain by chipping the crown.
- Floss threaders or a water flosser can be used to clean the area around the edges of the crown, as well as the gum line.
What Makes Crowns Last Longer or Shorter?
Several factors affect how long do dental crowns last. Some are within your control, while others are not.
Where the Crown Is in Your Mouth
Location matters. Crowns on front teeth usually last longer than those on back teeth. That’s because molars handle most of the chewing and grinding, which puts more pressure on crowns.
Your Oral Hygiene Habits
Brushing and flossing regularly play a big role. If plaque builds up around the crown, it can lead to gum disease or decay under the crown, causing it to loosen or fail.
People who brush twice daily, floss every day, and see their dentist regularly usually get many more years out of their crowns.
Grinding or Clenching Your Teeth
Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, puts extra force on crowns. Many people grind their teeth at night without realizing it. This pressure can crack or damage a crown over time. Wearing a night guard can greatly protect your crown if you grind your teeth.
What You Eat
Eating practices also count. Crunching hard foods like ice, nuts, or hard candy may damage the crown by chipping or cracking it. Tacky foods such as caramel or taffy may pull the crown loose.
How Well Your Crown Fits
A well-fitted crown lasts much longer than one that does not fit properly. A poor fit can affect your bite and allow bacteria to get underneath. This is why choosing an experienced dentist is so important.
How to Make Your Crown Last as Long as Possible
If you want your dental crown to last 15, 20, or even 25 years, follow these simple steps:
Brush Your Teeth the Right Way
Brush your teeth at least two times a day, preferably with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. The area where the crown meets the gum line must be thoroughly cleaned because it is prone to the formation of plaque.
Floss Every Day
Flossing is a very important step in crown maintenance. Food particles and dental plaque can become lodged between teeth and along the edges of crowns. Failure to floss can cause gum disease.
Use Mouthwash
Rinse with an antibacterial or antimicrobial mouthwash after brushing and flossing. Alcohol-free mouthwash is best, as it is gentler on your mouth. Mouthwash helps kill bacteria and reduces plaque around your crown.
Get a Night Guard If You Grind
If you have the habit of grinding your teeth while you sleep, consult your dentist about the use of a night guard. This is a perfect way to protect your crown from unnecessary pressure.
Wear a Mouthguard for Sports
If you play contact sports such as football, basketball, or hockey, you should always wear a mouthguard. A blow to the face can loosen or knock out a crown.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
See your dentist every six months for check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist will check your crown to make sure it is still secure and in good condition.
Proficient cleanings remove plaque and tartar that brushing can’t reach, especially around the crown edges, helping your crown last as long as possible.
Conclusion
Dental crowns have a longer shelf life when it comes to fixing broken teeth for about 10-15 years, based on the type of material used for making the dental crown. With regular personal care for your teeth, you can prolong the life of a dental crown.
At Precision Dental, we are dedicated to giving you the very best dental care, as well as doing everything we can to see that your crowns last for as long as possible. So if you are ready for a crown or a replacement, give us a call today!
If you have questions about crowns or are due for a dental check-up, don’t wait. Contact Precision Dental to schedule an appointment and get the care you need. Call us at 727-219-1369 or visit our clinic at 9020 Rancho Del Rio Dr, Suite 105, New Port Richey, FL 34655 for more information.
FAQ
How long do porcelain crowns last?
Porcelain crowns typically last 10 to 15 years with proper care. They are an excellent choice for front teeth because of their natural look.
Can dental crowns last a lifetime?
While it is rare for crowns to last a lifetime, some crowns, particularly metal ones, can last 20 years or more with the right care.
How do I know when my crown needs replacing?
If your crown feels loose, is causing pain, or has visible damage, it may need to be replaced. Regular dental check-ups will help detect problems early.
Can I eat normally with a crown?
Yes, you can eat with a crown, but it is advisable to avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods to prevent damage.