How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

Dental crowns are protective caps that cover broken, cracked, or decayed teeth, restoring their chewing ability. Crowns can also restore the appearance of stained and discolored teeth. These dental appliances typically last about 5 to 15 years, though they can last significantly longer with proper care.

How Dental Crowns Work

A dental crown is a custom-made appliance that fits over a prepared tooth, restoring its function and appearance. Fitting a dental crown typically takes two appointments:

Consultation

During your first appointment, your dentist will decide whether you need a crown and explain your options. Depending on the damaged tooth's condition, location, and oral habits, your dentist will recommend a crown material.

Impressions

Your dentist will take physical or digital impressions of your mouth to capture the proper shape and size of the crown.

Tooth Preparation

The next step involves shaping the tooth to accept the crown. Your doctor will remove all damaged or decayed areas of the tooth and refine its shape so the crown will firmly adhere. They will take another set of impressions to shape the crown's interior. They will create a temporary crown for you to wear while the dental lab fabricates the final version.

Final Crown Placement

When your permanent crown arrives, your dentist will ensure it fits well and cement it. You will leave the office with a fully functioning, attractive crown.

Material Choices for Dental Crowns

• Emax crowns: Emax is an advanced lithium glass that provides the appearance of fine porcelain with durable wear. These crowns are best in the front of the mouth.
• Zirconia crowns: This material offers enough durability to use on a molar while maintaining a tooth-colored appearance.
• Porcelain over metal crowns: Many patients choose this material for its durability and practicality in all areas of the mouth.
• Gold crowns: Gold is the most robust crown material and ideal for patients who clench or grind their teeth.
• Base metal crowns: A basic metal crown can be an excellent choice for molars and teeth with insufficient structure to support other materials.

Conditions Affecting Crown Longevity

Location

Crowns in the back of the mouth may last longer than crowns placed in the front.

Tooth Condition

If your dentist needs to remove a great deal of natural material to place the crown, it may be more challenging for the appliance to adhere to the tooth.

Teeth Grinding or Clenching

Patients with bruxism (chronic teeth grinding and clenching) often go through crowns at a faster rate than others. Dentists can help their crowns last longer by selecting the correct material. Patients should also consider a custom night guard to prevent tooth damage.

Oral Hygiene

Patients not brushing and flossing as directed may experience decay around and under the crown.

Oral Habits

Chewing non-food objects like fingernails, pens, or ice could damage or dislodge a crown from the prepared tooth.

Food Choices

Avoid sticky foods like caramel and taffy to keep from pulling your crown out. Chewing starchy foods may also pull out the crown. Avoid chewing gum.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns

What should I do if my crown falls out?

Locate the crown and bring it to your dentist. They should be able to cement it into place. Ensure that you bring the crown in as soon as possible, so that your gum will not need any preparation.

Why is a crown better than a filling?

A crown and a filling have different purposes. In some situations, when you have a choice between them, a crown helps your natural tooth last longer and provides a more attractive appearance. For example, if you need a root canal, a crown will help your natural tooth last longer and have fewer complications after the procedure.

However, many teeth can undergo successful restoration with a filling. Your dentist will share why they encourage you to receive one or the other.

Call Cambridge Family Dentistry

A crown is a durable, attractive tooth replacement option that can last decades when given proper care. With a new dental crown, you can complete your smile, enhance your appearance, and regain your ability to chew your favorite foods.

Speak to your dentist today about restoring a damaged tooth with a crown. Please call our Cambridge, MA, office at 617-868-7479 to schedule your appointment.