Perfect Preservation: How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

It’s natural to have questions if you’ve just found out that your dentist plans to fit you with a dental crown. These covers are a great way to restore functionality to a damaged or somewhat decayed tooth in scenarios that might otherwise require extraction. Protecting and preserving your natural pearly whites helps maintain your oral health and prevents other complex or invasive procedures.

Because dental crowns provide so many benefits, patients often ask how long they can expect theirs to last. If you’re curious, keep reading to learn more about it!

What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that’s fitted over a vulnerable tooth after it’s been treated. For example, your dentist will likely provide one after completing a root canal to shield it from additional injury and allow you to continue to bite, chew, and speak normally. They are also used on either side of a dental bridge to anchor it into place.

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

There’s no one answer to this question because it varies from person to person. On average, you can safely anticipate that your dental crown will last about 10 years. A few factors that might impact your restoration’s longevity include:

• Your oral hygiene. If you don’t brush or floss your teeth consistently, you’re more likely to develop tooth decay or gum disease. These can erode the tooth under your crown so that it becomes unstable.
• Bruxism (teeth grinding). The extra force exerted by frequently clenching your teeth can wear down your dental crown prematurely. It may even break or crack under the added pressure.
• The material used. Dental crowns can be made of metals like gold and stainless steel or from tooth-colored materials like porcelain or composite resin. Gold is considered the most durable and can last several decades but will be visibly noticeable. Many people prefer theirs to have a more life-like appearance which requires materials that are slightly less resilient.
• The reason for its placement. A dental crown that covers a healthy tooth to hold down a dental bridge will likely last longer than a crown shielding a damaged one. An injured tooth has a compromised structure and may not last as long.

How Can I Extend the Lifetime of My Dental Crown?

The best way to keep your restoration longer is to care for it properly. Some helpful tips to keep it in excellent condition are:

• Avoid clenching. If you suffer from bruxism, contact your dentist so they can provide a night guard to protect your teeth.
• Establish a regular at-home routine. You should brush and floss your teeth twice daily to remove any plaque buildup that contributes to oral issues like cavities and gum disease.
• Watch what you eat. Dental crowns are durable but not unbreakable. Steer clear of too many foods that are overly sugary, hard, or crunchy. Also, avoid alcohol and tobacco products.
• Maintain dental visits. Scheduling a checkup every 6 months allows your dentist to address any areas of concern, like a worn-down dental crown, before they can progress.

By making a few adjustments to your daily lifestyle, you can keep your dental crown for years to come!

About the Author

Dr. Vrajesh Shah has more than 20 years of experience helping people achieve and keep strong, healthy smiles. He started his dental training in India where he graduated from the Government Dental College and Hospital in Jamnagar before immigrating to the U.S. Then, he earned a Doctor of Dental Surgery at the New York University College of Dentistry. Today, he continues to hone his skills with ongoing training to provide a wide variety of services, including dental crowns. With state-of-the-art technology onsite, he can enhance patient comfort while maximizing results. If you’re worried about the state of your restoration, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (732) 943-1709.