The Life of the Crown: How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

After you get a dental crown, you may think your tooth is “in the clear.” You could even assume its new cap will keep it safe forever. However, your treatment results can’t last forever. Your tooth will likely need follow-up work at some point down the line. A question thus arises: how long do dental crowns last? Well, it so happens that your Homer Glen dentist has the answer. Here’s a primer on dental crowns, their lifespans, and how to help them last longer.

So, How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

The lifespan of a dental crown can vary from one patient to the next. Even so, there are a few facts on the matter worth noting.

Firstly, dental crowns have an average lifespan of ten years. This number stems from the caps often using sturdy and durable materials. That said, a given crown can last longer if given the proper care. It could then reach a lifespan of 15 or even 30 years.

Next, how long a dental crown lasts is greatly shaped by outside factors. Oral hygiene is one such element, affecting whether the cap fails early or lasts past the average. Other relevant factors include a dental crown’s location and the material used to make it. A crown placed on a molar won’t last as long as one on a canine, and a zirconia crown may have a longer lifespan than a porcelain one.

When Should You Replace Your Own?

Only a dentist can confirm if a dental crown needs replacement. Still, you can watch for warning signs that a crown is near its end.

A few examples of these relevant signs and symptoms exist. A notable one is pain in the treated tooth, which implies the cap isn’t protecting its area from decay. Another indicator is the feeling that a crown is unstable or moving.

Ways to Help Dental Crowns Last Longer

If you want your dental crown to last nice and long, you should take proper care of it. So, try using the tips and tricks listed below. They are:

• Stick to Good Oral Hygiene – Brush your teeth twice daily and floss them once daily. Doing so reduces the risk of your crowned tooth decaying further.
• Don’t Indulge Bad Oral Habits – Some oral habits can cause your crown to chip, including fingernail-chewing, ice-chewing, teeth-grinding, etc.
• Attend Dental Checkups – Attend dental checkups and cleanings every six months. That way, your dentist can treat oral issues before they threaten your dental crowns.

In the end, your actions affect how long your dental crown lasts. Make sure to practice the right ones so your restored tooth has a long life!

About the Practice

Deangelo Dental of Homer Glen is based in Homer Glen, IL. Led by Dr. Alan R. DeAngelo, our practice seeks to give each patient truly top-tier dental care. Our custom treatments span preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, as well as emergency oral procedures as needed. So, our team is always well-equipped to meet your smile’s needs. For more details or to book a visit, you can reach us on our website or by phone at (708)-854-5912.