How Long Do Crowns Last On Teeth?

Dental crowns are a popular solution for treating damaged or weakened teeth. Crowns cover the entire tooth to protect it, improve its overall appearance, and restore its natural function. They are typically a long-lasting solution. However, like any other dental equipment, their longevity also depends on a lot of factors. 

If you are considering getting dental crowns, understand their longevity and what you can do to optimize them.

What are the Factors Affecting the Lifespan of a Dental Crown?

The lifespan of a dental crown can vary depending on a variety of factors. Here are some of the key considerations that can influence how long your crown will last:

Material of the Crown

Crowns come in different materials, each offering its unique set of benefits and drawbacks. What material you choose for your crowns decides how long it will last.

• Porcelain Crowns: Highly aesthetic and blend in well with your natural teeth. However, this material is slightly more prone to wear or chipping, especially if you have a strong bite or teeth-grinding issue.
  
• Metal Crowns: Made of materials like gold or other alloys, metal crowns are highly durable. These crowns can last the longest – often 15 years or more. They are best suited for your back teeth.
  
• Zirconia Crowns: A newer option, zirconia crowns are strong and can last a long time with proper care. They’re also more aesthetic than metal crowns but may not look as natural as porcelain ones.

Bite and Chewing Habits

Your biting and chewing habits significantly affect how long your dental crown in Hickory, NC, will last.

• Teeth Grinding and Clenching: Grinding or clenching your teeth can cause significant wear on the crown. This habit can lead to cracks or chips in the crown, especially if your crown is made of porcelain.
  
• Chewing Hard or Sticky Foods: Avoid biting into very hard items like ice, nuts, or hard candies, as this can put undue pressure on the crown. Sticky foods, like caramel, can also pull at the crown, loosening it or causing it to wear down faster. So, be mindful of what you eat.

Age and Wear

Like most dental treatments, dental crowns naturally wear down over time. However, how quickly they wear depends on how well you care for them.

• Natural Aging: Over the years, crowns may show some signs of wear, including surface scratches or discoloration. While this is normal, it doesn’t necessarily mean your crown needs to be replaced.
• Changes in Bite: As you age, your bite may shift or change. This can put more pressure on certain areas of your crown, which may lead to cracks or the loosening of the crown.

While crowns typically last 10 to 15 years, they may need to be replaced sooner if they show signs of wear or damage.

Oral Hygiene

Taking good care of your mouth is necessary for a long-lasting dental crown. Proper care ensures your crown remains in its right place and also protects the tooth beneath it.

• Brush two times daily using fluoride toothpaste. Pay extra attention to the area around the crown to avoid any possible chances of decay.
• Floss around the crown every day to ensure food and plaque do not get trapped.
• Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. This will help ensure that the crown and the surrounding tooth remain in good condition for a long time.

How to Extend the Life of Your Crown?

Taking care of your crown can help prolong its lifespan. Here are some helpful tips for you:

• Don’t chew on hard objects like ice, nuts, or unpopped popcorn kernels, which can damage your crown.
• If you grind your teeth at night, consider wearing a nightguard to protect both your teeth and your crown from damage.
• Schedule regular visits to your dentist for cleanings and checkups to ensure your crown and overall dental health are in good condition.

Crowns are a great way to restore and protect your teeth, and with the right care, they can last a long time—usually between 10 to 15 years. Stay mindful of these factors and take proper care of your crown. Enjoy the benefits of a durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing solution for many years to come.