How long does a porcelain crown last? A dentist’s insight

Are you getting a dental crown?

Dental crowns are used to cover and strengthen weak teeth. 

They help restore a tooth's original shape and size so it can work properly.

One type of crown is the porcelain crown. 

If your dentist has suggested porcelain crowns, you might be curious about their lifespan.

The lifespan of a crown depends on how much wear and tear it gets, which can be different for each person.

But, how long do porcelain crowns last?

Crowns don’t last forever, but you can make them last longer with proper care.

To help you understand more about porcelain crowns and how they can improve your daily life, keep reading.

Why do you need a dental crown?

Your dentist may use a crown for several reasons, such as:

• If you have a large filling but not enough tooth left to hold it, a crown can help make the tooth stronger.
• Fix a broken or cracked tooth.
• Protect a weak tooth from breaking.
• Hold dental bridges in place.
• Safeguard a fragile tooth after a root canal.

Not everyone needs a dental crown just for function. Some people get crowns to hide a tooth that is misshaped, decayed, or discolored. 

A dental crown can improve how a tooth looks and enhance your smile.

Crowns can be made from different materials, and some materials last longer than others.

What is a porcelain crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that fits over your whole tooth, like a snug hat. 

To make sure it fits well, a dentist will remove a small amount of enamel before putting the crown on.

Porcelain crowns are made to look like your natural teeth and come in two main types: all-ceramic or all-porcelain.

Both types can be used for back and front teeth and are a safe option for people with metal allergies.

Lab technicians use different materials to make porcelain crowns, including zirconia.

Pros and cons of porcelain crowns

Porcelain crowns have many benefits, including:

• Durability: Porcelain crowns are strong. They are nearly as strong as natural tooth enamel.

• Appearance: Porcelain crowns can be made to match the color of your natural teeth and can brighten your smile.

• Easy to care for: Porcelain crowns don’t need special maintenance.

• Safe for your body: Porcelain crowns are made from materials that are unlikely to cause allergies.

• Protection: Porcelain crowns cover the whole tooth, making it less likely to get damaged.

• Functionality: Porcelain crowns can help fix damaged teeth and let you chew normally.

However, there are some downsides:

• Porcelain crowns are not as strong as other types, like porcelain-fused-to-metal or zirconia crowns, and they are more likely to chip or break.

• Porcelain crowns are usually more expensive than other crowns.

• They can show wear and tear over time, especially if you grind your teeth or put too much pressure on them.

The average lifespan of a porcelain crown

How long does a porcelain crown last?

Dental crowns are made to be durable and can last about 15 years with good care. 

With careful maintenance, some people find their crowns can last up to 30 years.

However, porcelain crowns usually last shorter, between 5 to 15 years, depending on factors like oral hygiene and personal habits.

To make sure your crowns last as long as possible, it's important to take care of them and go for regular dental check-ups.

What affects the lifespan of a porcelain crown?

If you have a porcelain crown, certain factors can reduce its lifespan.

Grinding or clenching your teeth can hurt your crown and other teeth. Using a night guard can help protect them. Avoid chewing on ice or hard foods like hard candies.

Taking care of your teeth is very important. If you don’t, you might lose your crown sooner. Make sure to care for all your teeth, as decay can happen in the natural tooth under the crown.

Metal vs porcelain crowns

Metal crowns vs porcelain ones is a common debate.

Metal crowns are usually made from cobalt-chromium, nickel-chromium, and other metal alloys. They have been used in dentistry for a long time and are known for being strong. 

Unlike porcelain crowns, metal crowns are less likely to wear down or chip over time. Most people choose metal crowns for their back teeth, where they are less noticeable.

Porcelain crowns look like natural teeth and can be used for back and front teeth, and are good for people with metal allergies.

Metal crowns can last over 20 years, while porcelain crowns usually last 5 to 15 years.

Conclusions 

How long does a porcelain crown lasts depends on your oral care habits and how you protect your teeth.

These crowns are great for your front teeth because they look very natural.

For a better appearance, you might want to whiten your teeth before getting a porcelain crown so you can have the best smile.

It's important to talk to your dentist about what you aspire and find the best type of crown for your needs.

If you don’t have a dentist yet, feel free to reach out to us.

At The Junction Family Dental Care, our goal is to help you have a healthier and brighter smile.