A dental crown is a custom-made, tooth-shaped cap designed to fully cover a damaged tooth, restoring its original shape, size, strength, and appearance. Dentists often recommend crowns to protect a weak tooth from breaking, to restore an already fractured or severely worn-down tooth, or to support a tooth with a large filling that has little natural tooth structure remaining. Crowns also serve aesthetic purposes, improving the look of discolored or misshapen teeth, and can hold dental bridges in place or cover dental implants.
Average Lifespan of Tooth Crowns
Dental crowns are durable, but their lifespan is not indefinite. On average, a professionally fitted dental crown lasts between 5 and 15 years. This duration is an average, and individual experiences can vary significantly based on numerous factors.
Factors Influencing Crown Longevity
The longevity of a dental crown is influenced by factors including material, oral hygiene, and individual habits. Different crown materials offer varying durability. Metal crowns (gold or other alloys) are highly durable, lasting 15 to 20 years or more. Zirconia crowns are also very strong and fracture-resistant, typically lasting 15 to 20 years or more.
PFM crowns combine a metal base with a porcelain overlay, offering a balance of strength and aesthetics, and generally last between 5 and 15 years. All-ceramic or all-porcelain crowns provide excellent aesthetic results, often lasting 10 to 15 years. E-Max crowns, an advanced all-ceramic option, can last 15 to 20 years or more with good care. Resin crowns are less durable, typically lasting 3 to 10 years.
Consistent oral hygiene practices play a significant role in a crown’s lifespan. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings prevent decay around the crown’s margins and maintain gum health, which is important for crown stability. Dietary habits also contribute; consuming hard, sticky, or acidic foods can stress the crown or underlying tooth. Habits like bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching) exert significant force, potentially leading to premature wear, chipping, or loosening. Crowns on molars, enduring more chewing forces, may experience greater wear than those on front teeth.
The quality of the initial dental work, including precise preparation and a well-fitted crown, is important for long-term success. The health of the underlying tooth and surrounding gum tissue also affects crown viability.
Recognizing When a Crown Needs Attention
Be aware of signs that a dental crown may be compromised. Persistent pain or increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures can signal issues with the underlying tooth or nerve. A loose or ill-fitting crown may suggest cement failure or decay beneath it, compromising its bond. Visible cracks, chips, or significant wear are clear signs of damage requiring professional evaluation.
A dark line at the gum line may indicate receding gums exposing the metal base of a PFM crown or a gap where the crown meets the tooth. Receding gums can also expose the tooth root, leading to sensitivity or decay. Swelling or tenderness in the gum tissue surrounding the crowned tooth might point to infection or inflammation. Changes in your bite, such as the crown feeling too high or uneven, could indicate altered fit or shifting.
Tips for Maximizing Crown Lifespan
Extending a dental crown’s life involves consistent care. Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. Regular use of antibacterial mouthwash also helps control bacteria. Attend regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings, typically twice a year, to monitor the crown’s condition and address issues early.
Avoid habits that damage crowns, such as chewing ice or hard candies, or using teeth as tools. If you grind or clench your teeth (bruxism), your dentist may recommend a custom-fitted nightguard. Address any underlying dental issues promptly, like gum disease or new decay, to prevent complications. Following post-placement instructions helps ensure the crown settles properly and remains secure.