How Long Does a Dental Crown Last? What the Sources Say
Sources do not agree on one figure, and some tie their numbers to proper care. Here is what three of them report for crowns:
- Cleveland Clinic: the average lifespan of a dental crown is five to 15 years, and crowns can last upwards of 30 years with proper care and maintenance.
- MedlinePlus: most crowns should last at least 5 years and can last as long as 15 to 20 years.
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (a UK hospital trust): if a crown or veneer is properly cared for, it should normally last around 8 to 10 years. The trust says this depends on regular dental check ups, your brushing and flossing technique, and a low sugar diet.
For metal restorations specifically, the American Dental Association (ADA) reports that metal and metal alloy restorations, particularly gold, have been reported to average 18 to 20 years of longevity, with some reported over 40 years. That figure is about metal restorations and is not a general crown average.
In our view, that spread is a good reason not to expect a set number of years from any one crown. Cleveland Clinic adds that you might need to replace yours sooner if it gets cracked or damaged.
What Affects Crown Lifespan for Oxnard Patients?
Material
Material is one factor. Cleveland Clinic says metal crowns rarely chip or break and last the longest in terms of wear, though their metallic color is the main drawback. MedlinePlus says resin crowns wear down more quickly and may need to be replaced sooner than other crowns.
The porcelain coating on porcelain fused to metal crowns may chip off over time, according to Cleveland Clinic. For zirconia, the ADA says evidence for long term survivability is limited.
Daily habits and oral health
Daily habits and oral health matter too. The sources point to these:
- Grinding or clenching: the MSD Manual says teeth grinding eventually wears down teeth, and artificial dental crowns can be fractured, perforated, and damaged (it adds that if porcelain is on the chewing surface, the opposing tooth may be the one that wears).
- Decay: MedlinePlus says the tooth under a crown can still get a cavity.
- Fit: Cleveland Clinic says crowns can trap bacteria and lead to decay if they do not fit properly.
- Hard and sticky foods: Cleveland Clinic lists ice cubes, extremely hard nuts, popcorn with kernels, and super sticky foods like taffy and caramels as foods that can damage or dislodge a crown.
How Can You Care for a Crown in Oxnard?
Cleveland Clinic lists these steps to keep a crown in good condition:
- Brush at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and a soft bristled toothbrush.
- Floss between your teeth once every day.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash to keep plaque and harmful bacteria at bay.
- Avoid extremely hard, crunchy or chewy foods.
- If you grind or clench your teeth, ask your dentist about wearing a custom mouth guard.
- Get regular dental cleanings and exams.
The UK's Leeds guidance adds that limiting how often you consume sugar helps preserve your crown and your natural teeth. The MSD Manual says people should have a dental evaluation before using a store bought guard.
When Should Oxnard Patients Call a Dentist About a Crown?
Cleveland Clinic says to call your dentist if you notice any of the following with a dental crown:
- A loose crown
- Bad breath or a bad taste
- Cracks or chips in the crown
- Sharp edges that bother your tongue or gums
Cleveland Clinic also says a crown should not be painful. Some sensitivity is normal after placement, but you should not have pain or discomfort that keeps you up at night.
If you notice wear, tear or damage, Cleveland Clinic says it is time for crown replacement. Only a dentist who examines your tooth can tell you what that means in your case.
