How Long Does a Dental Crown Last?

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Medically Reviewed By
Jonathan G. Campbell, DDS, FAGD
One of the top rated Dentist in Salt Lake City, UT

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a protective cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are versatile dental restorations that play a crucial role in preserving and enhancing the functionality of a tooth.

What is the Purpose of a Dental Crown?

The primary purposes of dental crowns include:

  1. Restoration: Repairing a tooth that has undergone significant decay or damage.
  2. Protection: Providing protection for a tooth after root canal treatment.
  3. Support: Offering structural support to a tooth with a large filling.
  4. Aesthetics: Improving the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth.
  5. Stabilization: Anchoring dental bridges in place.
  6. Covering: Concealing dental implants or severely discolored teeth.

What to Know About Different Types of Crowns and Their Longevity

Zirconia

Zirconia crowns are known for their durability and natural appearance. They can last a decade or more with proper care.

Porcelain Fused to Metal

Combining the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain, these crowns offer good longevity, typically lasting 10-15 years.

Lithium Disilicate

Lithium disilicate crowns are popular for their strength and esthetics. They can last 10-15 years or longer.

Gold

Gold crowns are valued for their durability and biocompatibility. They can endure for 20 years or more.

Do Crowns Last Longer Than Veneers?

Yes, dental crowns generally have a longer lifespan compared to veneers. While veneers can last 10-15 years, crowns, depending on the material used, can endure for two decades or more.

How Will You Know When a Crown Needs to Be Replaced?

1. Pain Involving the Tooth with the Crown:

Persistent pain or discomfort may indicate underlying issues that require attention.

2. A Feeling That the Crown is Unstable or Appears to Be Moving:

If the crown feels loose or unstable, it may need to be examined and possibly replaced.

3. The Tooth with the Crown is No Longer Aesthetically Pleasing:

Changes in appearance, such as discoloration or visible damage, may prompt the need for a new crown.

What Can Affect the Lifespan of a Crown?

1. The Type of Crown:

Different crown materials have varying lifespans. Gold and zirconia crowns, for example, tend to be more durable.

2. The Dentist’s Skill-Set:

The precision and expertise of the dentist in crown placement significantly impact its longevity.

3. Health of the Affected Tooth:

A tooth with a compromised structure may impact the crown's durability.

4. Using Your Teeth as Tools:

Avoid using your teeth for activities like opening packages, as it can compromise the integrity of the crown.

5. Tooth Grinding:

Bruxism (teeth grinding) can contribute to the wear and tear of crowns. Night guards may be recommended to mitigate this.

Regular dental check-ups and adherence to good oral hygiene practices contribute to the prolonged lifespan of dental crowns. If you have concerns about the longevity of your crown, Call Legacy Dental Today or Schedule a Free Appointment Today!

Legacy Dental blog is proudly run by our Salt Lake City dentists team; We share knowledge about general dental care and practices. Apart from running this blog, we offer various dental services such as general dentistry, emergency dentistry, and dental implants for the community in Salt Lake City, Utah

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