How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?: Factors, Maintenance and Longevity

What are dental crowns?

Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps that cover the entire tooth to provide strength, protection and improve its appearance. There are various dental crown types, including metal crowns, ceramic crowns, porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns and zirconia crowns, each offering unique advantages and suitability based on individual needs.

Not only does a crown add strength to a tooth, it can also correct bite misalignments and protect a tooth after root canal treatment. However, some patients opt for these types of dental crowns purely for cosmetic purposes, that is to correct teeth that are stained, too small, or misshapen.

The crown placement procedure typically involves two separate appointments, with a temporary crown being placed on prepared teeth initially while the permanent crown is fabricated in a dental laboratory. At Dental Designs, we offer same day crowns where the permanent crown is fabricated in a single day using CAD-CAM technology!

What are the factors that determine how long dental crowns last?

While dental crowns today are extremely strong and durable, they are not likely to last an entire tooth or lifetime. As mentioned above, on an average lifespan per natural teeth, most dental crowns last between 5-15 years before needing to be replaced or repaired. This duration appears rather vast and vague because the longevity of dental crowns depends on a few factors, including:

• Location of the tooth
• Condition of the original tooth
• Pressure and harmful habits on the crowned tooth from grinding, clenching or chewing on hard objects
• Proper oral hygiene
• Material of the crown used (gold crowns are the strongest but may not be aesthetically pleasing due to their metallic golden appearance. The next best option in terms of strength, durability and aesthetic appearance would be porcelain crowns or zirconia crowns¹)
• Skill of the dentist/installation of the crown
• Manufacture of the crown
• Periodontal health like gum disease
• Full or partial crown
• External trauma due to accidents

Based on the list above, many factors go into the longevity of dental crown procedures, which explains the 5-15 year estimation. However, studies show that when used for the right dental problems and installed properly by an experienced dentist, dental crowns can last for decades or even longer. This includes crowns that are manufactured well with the appropriate materials and cared for diligently by the dental laboratory and the patient.

A 2013 study² that tracked the success rate of over 2,300 PFM crowns restored by the same specialist showed that 97% of those crowns lasted over a decade, and 85% of crown lasted for 25 years. This goes to show that with proper crown materials, manufacturing, professional and proper care, the chances of a permanent crown and long-term success are very high.

Related Articles

• How do I care for my new dental crown?
• Dental Crowns: Are Porcelain Fused To Metal Crowns Safe? (2024)

How to tell if your dental crown needs to be replaced?

Over time, dental crowns may show signs of wear or damage, like looseness or tooth decay around the crowned tooth. Patients should monitor their oral health and report any discomfort to their dentist. Sometimes, it’s obvious when a crown needs replacing, such as if it falls out or is extensively damaged. Other times, symptoms may be less obvious, so it’s important not to ignore any signs to avoid pain and further dental issues. Such instances include, when:

• Your bite does NOT seem normal or it feels “off”

When your new crown is first put on, your bite should feel normal. If over time your bite changes or starts to feel uneven, then it’s probably a sign that your crown is wearing off and metal crown needs to be adjusted or replaced.

• Your gums around the crowned tooth are receding

If you notice receding gums around your crowned tooth, it could mean that the crown or the damaged tooth was not placed properly or that you have gum disease and need to seek treatment with your dentist.

• Your dental crown has been around for many years

Usually, crowns that are older than five years are more likely to run into issues due to wear and tear. It is recommended to have your crowns checked at least twice a year by your dentist to make sure everything is functioning properly.

• You experience pain

Crowns can sometimes suffer external damage due to everyday use or pressure by bruxism. When dental crowns chip or crack, the underlying tooth may be exposed, causing pain, tenderness or swelling. Once this happens, it is imperative to fix the crown as soon as possible to protect the underlying tooth. Depending on the damage, the cracked tooth crown can be easily repaired with some quick adjustments or a replacement may be needed.

How can I ensure longevity through proper care?

While dental crowns can effectively restore function and enhance the smile for many years, it is important to remember that they are not immune to wear and tear and may require maintenance or replacement over time to ensure optimal oral health and longevity. Apart from choosing an experienced and knowledgeable dentist, it is up to you to take care of your dental permanent crowns through proper lifestyle and oral hygiene habits, such as—

• Brushing and flossing: Proper oral hygiene is crucial to prevent decay around the crowned tooth and under the crown's edge.

• Diet: Avoid chewing very hard or sticky foods that can damage the crown.

• Bad habits: Don't use your teeth for tasks like opening bottles or biting fingernails, which can crack or loosen the crown.

• Regular dental check-ups: Attending routine dental appointments allows your dentist to check the crown's condition and address any potential issues early on.

In cases where a dental crown feels loose or falls off, it is essential to visit the dentist's office promptly for re-cementation or replacement to avoid further damage to the underlying tooth.

Conclusion

The lifespan of dental crowns can vary depending on various factors but with regular dental care and maintenance, dental crowns can provide durable and aesthetically pleasing solutions for restoring damaged teeth. Ready to book a dental crown appointment with us? Simply drop us a message here and we will be happy to assist!

Learn more about Dental Crowns with Dental Designs!

References

1. Li, R., Wang, Y., Hu, M., Wang, Y., Xv, Y., Liu, Y., & Sun, Y. (2019). Strength and Adaptation of Stereolithography-Fabricated Zirconia Dental Crowns: An In Vitro Study. The International journal of prosthodontics, 32(5), 439–443. https://doi.org/10.11607/ijp.6262
2. Walton T. R. (2013). The up to 25-year survival and clinical performance of 2,340 high gold-based metal-ceramic single crowns. The International journal of prosthodontics, 26(2), 151–160. https://doi.org/10.11607/ijp.3136