When you are told you need a dental crown in order to save a tooth, it is important to follow through with that treatment before the integrity of the tooth is further compromised. You may be concerned with the lifespan of a crown, as with many other things, is greatly affected by the wear and tear it endures which of course varies from patient to patient.
If your crown is done well, you keep up with good oral hygiene and maintain proper care of your crown and natural teeth; your crown can last you decades or even a lifetime.
Estimating How Long A Crown Can Last
While crowns are a great way to restore broken teeth, there has to be enough tooth structure for the crown to adhere to. Once it has been established that your tooth can support a crown, your dentist will make sure that the crown fits well and is tight around the tooth so there are no open margins which can lead to food traps and catch floss.
If the crown is not well fitting, it can loosen prematurely and eventually fall out. Your dentist can re-cement your crown but once a crown falls out, it will need to be replaced at some point. You may be able to make it last a few more years but for the most part, once that initial bond is broken, it needs to be re-established with a new crown.
Most dental insurance companies allow replacement of crowns on a tooth every five to eight years, but if your crown fits properly, you will not be needing a replacement for over a decade at least.
Reasons Why Your Dental Crown May Not Last Long
Material and Installation: Metals are more durable than porcelain and ceramic for dental crowns. Porcelain is more commonly used, especially on anterior (front) teeth for aesthetic purposes because it is strong and can be colour-matched on your teeth, and looks natural. I use only the finest cements available and I mix them myself to ensure that it is done properly.
The needs and desires of the patient are always thoroughly examined before deciding which materials will be best for his or her unique situation.
Bad Oral Hygiene: Poor oral hygiene is a way to develop decay under your crown. Oral hygiene is important. Make sure you look after your teeth and gums to help your teeth stay healthy and keep your crown longer.
Dental Habits: If you grind or clench your teeth, that can be a major factor in the lifespan of your crown and your teeth. A night guard is an excellent way to protect your crown and the integrity of your other teeth. You should also avoid crunching down on ice and hard food items, such as hard candies.
Regular Checkups
Attend routine dental cleaning and check-up appointments. At these visits, our dentist will examine your crown for any signs of decay, trauma, or gaps between the tooth and the crown.
how long do crowns last
Unlike veneers, the average lifespan for dental crowns is 25-30 years if you give them the proper care. Extending a crown’s lifespan could mean restoring natural teeth for the rest of your work career or retirement.