A Tooth Can Wear Many Caps: How Long Can a Dental Crown Last?

Dental crowns can save teeth from extraction by protecting them from further damage and restoring them to their original shape and function. While most people finding out that they need a dental crown might wonder whether the procedure will hurt, how expensive it will be, and what the crown will look like, they should also consider how long they can expect their crown to last. Here’s how long your dental crown can last and how you can maximize its lifespan.

How Long Can My Dental Crown Last?

A dental crown’s lifespan depends mostly on how well the patient takes care of it and what material it is made from. Most dental crowns last between five to fifteen years, and porcelain or ceramic crowns average out at about ten years. However, they can last even longer with excellent care. While porcelain or ceramic crowns are more prone to chipping and cracking than metal ones, they also look more like natural teeth and do not react to temperature shifts in the same way.

What Factors Can Influence How Long My Dental Crown Can Last?

The crown’s location plays a large role in how long the restoration can last. Molars take the brunt of the chewing pressure in the mouth, so crowns placed there can be exposed to more stress than ones placed on the front teeth. If a crown isn’t constructed properly, it might not fit well enough to form a lasting bond. This can also lead to issues such as a misaligned bite or even damage to other teeth.

What Habits Can Shorten the Life of My Dental Crown?

Many of the bad habits that can damage teeth can reduce the lifespan of a dental crown. Chewing on ice or frequent teeth grinding can cause a crown to wear out faster. Using your teeth to open bottles or packages can also chip, crack, break, or dislodge a crown. Poor oral hygiene can allow cavities to develop under a crown, and your dentist will have to remove the restoration before treating the infection. However, not every failed crown is the fault of the patient. Sometimes, they can fail as a result of being poorly placed or because the tooth was not adequately treated for infection.

Proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits are two of the best ways to keep your crown in fighting shape for the long run, and replacing your crown in a timely manner can help keep your teeth healthy and beautiful.

About the Practice

Souris Valley Dental Group uses modern treatment techniques and technologies to keep families smiling in Minot, ND. Led by a team of five dentists, the staff ensures that patients have access to excellent dental care in a compassionate and friendly environment. Areas of expertise include general, pediatric, cosmetic, emergency, and restorative dentistry such as dental crowns. For more information on making your dental crown last longer, contact the office online or dial (701) 852-5595.