How Long Do Dental Crowns Last? A Complete Guide

Dental crowns are a common and effective solution for restoring damaged teeth, offering protection and improving appearance. 

But how long can you expect a dental crown to last? 

This guide explores the average lifespan of different types of crowns, factors that impact their durability, and tips for maximizing their longevity.

PS: We already made a full guide on what are dental crowns, their procedure, and more if you want to check that out.

Average Lifespan of Dental Crowns

The lifespan of a dental crown can vary based on the material used, the location in your mouth, and how well you care for your oral health. 

On average, most dental crowns last between 10 to 15 years, but with proper care, they can last even longer.

Crown Material                            Average Lifespan

Porcelain-fused-to-metal      10 - 15 years

All-ceramic or all-porcelain    5 - 15 years

Gold or metal crowns             20+ years

Zirconia crowns                       10 - 20 years

Resin crowns                            5 - 8 years

Types of Dental Crowns

• Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM): These crowns are durable and offer a natural appearance. While they can last around 10 to 15 years, they may eventually show wear or expose the metal layer beneath the porcelain.
• All-Ceramic/All-Porcelain: These crowns are highly aesthetic and ideal for front teeth. However, they are less durable than metal crowns and have a shorter lifespan.
• Gold or Metal Crowns: Metal crowns are known for their exceptional durability and can last for decades, often exceeding 20 years. They are typically used for molars due to their strength.
• Zirconia Crowns: These are relatively new and combine the aesthetics of ceramic crowns with the strength of metal. Zirconia crowns can last between 10 to 20 years.
• Resin Crowns: These are less expensive but also less durable, often needing replacement after 5 to 8 years.

We also made a comparison between crowns here.

Factors affecting Crown Longevity

Several factors can influence how long a dental crown lasts:

1. Material: As outlined above, the material of the crown is one of the most significant factors. Metal crowns tend to last longer than porcelain or resin options.
2. Oral Hygiene: Good oral hygiene practices like brushing and flossing regularly can extend the life of your crown by preventing decay around the tooth and gum disease.
3. Location of the Crown: Crowns on molars typically experience more wear and tear because of their function in chewing, which can shorten their lifespan.
4. Diet: A diet high in sugar or acidic foods can weaken the underlying tooth or increase the risk of decay around the crown.
5. Grinding or Clenching: If you grind or clench your teeth (bruxism), this can wear down a crown faster, especially for porcelain crowns.
6. Injury or Trauma: Accidental damage from biting down on hard objects or injury can cause chips or cracks in the crown.

How to Make Dental Crowns last longer

While crowns naturally wear over time, proper care can help maximize their lifespan:

1. Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene

Regular brushing and flossing are essential. 

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to protect the crown’s surface. 

Flossing prevents plaque buildup around the crown, protecting the underlying tooth from decay.

2. Avoid Chewing on Hard Objects

Avoid biting down on ice, hard candy, or other hard foods. This can cause cracks or chips, particularly in porcelain crowns.

3. Wear a Mouthguard if You Grind Your Teeth

If you clench or grind your teeth, especially at night, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your crown from excessive wear and tear.

4. Regular Dental Check-ups

Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and exams. Your dentist can monitor the condition of your crown and catch any issues before they become serious problems.

5. Watch Your Diet

Avoiding sticky, hard, or sugary foods can help protect your crown and the underlying tooth from damage and decay.

Signs you need a Crown Replacement

Even with the best care, crowns don’t last forever. Here are some signs that it might be time to replace your dental crown:

• Visible Wear or Damage: If your crown is cracked, chipped, or worn down, it may need replacement.
• Pain or Sensitivity: Pain around the crowned tooth could indicate decay or issues with the underlying tooth, signaling the need for replacement.
• Loose Crown: If the crown feels loose or shifts when you chew, see your dentist. A loose crown can allow bacteria to reach the tooth underneath, causing decay or infection.
• Gum Recession: If your gums recede around the crown, it may expose the tooth's edge, leading to increased sensitivity or risk of decay.

FAQs about Dental Crowns

1. How long do porcelain crowns last?

Porcelain crowns typically last between 5 to 15 years, though they may wear out faster than metal or zirconia crowns.

2. How often do crowns need to be replaced?

On average, crowns need replacement after 10 to 15 years, but some types, like metal or zirconia crowns, can last 20 years or more with proper care.

3. Can a crown last a lifetime?

While it's possible for a crown to last a lifetime, most crowns need replacement after several years due to normal wear, tear, and changes in your mouth.

4. Does insurance cover crown replacements?

Most dental insurance plans partially cover the cost of crown replacements, but coverage varies by provider. Check with your insurance company for specifics.

5. What’s the best material for a dental crown?

The best material depends on your needs. Metal crowns are the most durable, while porcelain and zirconia crowns offer a more natural look, especially for visible teeth. Learn more about it here.

6. How can I tell if my crown needs to be replaced?

Signs that your crown needs replacement include pain, sensitivity, visible wear or cracks, a loose fit, or gum recession around the crown.

7. Can you whiten dental crowns?

No, dental crowns cannot be whitened. If your crown becomes discolored, you may need to replace it for aesthetic reasons. If you want to know more about the best teeth whitening products click here.

8. Do dental crowns prevent cavities?

While a crown itself doesn’t get cavities, the underlying tooth can still decay, especially if there's a gap between the crown and your gums. Proper oral hygiene is crucial.

Conclusion

Dental crowns are a reliable solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth, with an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years, or longer with proper care. 

The type of crown material, oral hygiene, and lifestyle choices all play a significant role in how long your crown will last.