How Long Do Dental Crowns Last? (And How to Make Them Last Longer)

Quick Answer

Dental crowns typically last 5-15 years, with many lasting 20+ years with proper care. Lifespan depends on:

• Crown material (zirconia and gold last longest)
• Your oral hygiene habits
• Teeth grinding/clenching
• Regular dental checkups

Good care = longer-lasting crowns.

A dental crown is a major investment in your oral health. When a tooth is badly damaged, a crown can be the hero that saves it, restoring its function and appearance for years to come. So, it's only natural for patients to ask me, "Dr. G, how long do dental crowns last?" It's a great question, especially here in Mobile, AL, where you want to know that the time and money you're investing will provide a long-term solution.

The simple answer is that a dental crown can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, or even longer. I've seen crowns that have been going strong for 20 or 30 years! But the lifespan of a crown isn't just a matter of luck. It depends on a combination of factors, including the material the crown is made from, your own oral hygiene habits, and a little bit of TLC.

Think of it like the tires on your car. The manufacturer gives you an estimated mileage, but how long they actually last depends on the quality of the tire, how well you maintain them, and the kind of roads you drive on. Let's break down what goes into the longevity of a dental crown and what you can do to get the most "mileage" out of yours.

What Exactly is a Dental Crown?

First, let's quickly recap what a crown is. A dental crown, or "cap," is a custom-made covering that fits over a damaged tooth much like a ring around a barrel. We use crowns to:

Restore a tooth that is broken or severely worn down.

Protect a weak tooth from fracturing, especially after a root canal.

Cover a large filling when there isn't enough natural tooth left.

Hold a dental bridge in place.

Cover a dental implant.

A crown encases the entire visible portion of a tooth, becoming the tooth's new outer surface. This not only makes the tooth strong again but also gives it a natural, healthy appearance.

Factors That Influence a Crown's Lifespan

The Material: Crowns can be made from several different materials, and each has its own pros and cons in terms of durability.

• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM): These crowns have a metal base for strength and a porcelain overlay for a natural look. They are very strong and durable but can sometimes show a dark line at the gum line over time and susceptible to chipping.
• All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain: These crowns provide the best natural color match and are a great choice for front teeth. They are very durable, but not quite as strong as their metal-based counterparts.
• Zirconia: This is a type of ceramic that is incredibly strong and resistant to chipping. Zirconia crowns are a popular choice for molars because they can withstand heavy chewing forces.
• Gold and Metal Alloys: These are the old workhorses of dentistry. They are extremely durable and gentle on the opposing teeth, but their metallic color makes them less popular for visible teeth.

Your Oral Hygiene: This is the most important factor that you can control. The crown itself can't decay, but the natural tooth underneath it can. If you don't brush and floss regularly, plaque can build up at the gum line where the crown meets the tooth. This can lead to a cavity that can destroy the underlying tooth and cause the crown to fail.

Your Habits: Do you grind or clench your teeth at night (a condition called bruxism)? This can put immense pressure on your crowns and cause them to wear down, crack, or become loose. Do you have a habit of chewing on ice, pens, or your fingernails? These habits can also damage your crowns. Sipping on sugary beverages will also increase the chance of developing new decay around a crown.

The Fit of the Crown: A well-fitting crown is essential for longevity. As your dentist, it's my job to ensure that your crown has a precise fit, with no gaps at the margin where bacteria can sneak in. This is where my background as a pilot, with its focus on precision and detail, really comes into play.

📞 Need Help Now?

Crown feeling loose or uncomfortable? Call Rabbit Creek Dental at (251) 308-0584 for expert crown care in Mobile, AL. We serve Tillman's Corner, West Mobile, and surrounding areas with quality restorative dentistry.

How to Make Your Dental Crown Last Longer

Here are my top tips for protecting your investment and extending the life of your crown:

Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene: Brush twice a day and floss daily. Pay special attention to the area around your crown. Flossing is not optional—it's the only way to clean the space between the crown and the adjacent teeth.

Wear a Nightguard if You Grind: If you know you grind your teeth, a custom-made nightguard is the best way to protect your crowns (and your natural teeth) from damage.

Avoid Chewing on Hard Objects: Treat your crowns with care. Don't use them as tools to open packages, and avoid chewing on things that could cause them to fracture.

Keep Your Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit us at Rabbit Creek Dental for your regular cleanings and exams. This allows me to keep an eye on your crown, check for any signs of wear or leakage, and address any small problems before they become big ones. Here in the Mobile climate, regular cleanings are especially important to keep plaque at bay.

When Does a Crown Need to be Replaced?

Over time, you might notice some signs that your crown is nearing the end of its life. Call us if you notice:

Wear and Tear: The crown may look worn down, or if it's a PFM crown, the porcelain may have chipped off, exposing the metal underneath.

A Dark Line at the Gum Line: This can happen as your gums recede, exposing the metal edge of a PFM crown.

Discomfort or Sensitivity: Pain or sensitivity around a crowned tooth could indicate a cavity underneath or a problem with the fit.

A Loose Crown: If your crown feels loose, it's a sign that the cement has washed out, and it needs to be re-cemented or replaced. (Related: What to Do If Your Dental Crown Falls Off)

FAQ: Your Dental Crown Longevity Questions

Does insurance cover crown replacement?

Most dental insurance plans will cover a portion of the cost to replace a crown, especially if it is old and no longer functioning properly. The typical replacement cycle that insurance companies consider is every 5-7 years.

Can a crown be repaired, or does it always have to be replaced?

Small chips in a porcelain crown can sometimes be repaired with composite resin. However, for larger fractures or more significant problems, replacement is usually the best option.

Will I need a new crown if I have to get a root canal on that tooth?

Not always. Sometimes, we can perform the root canal by making a small access hole through the top of the crown and then placing a filling in that hole. However, if the crown is old or the tooth is very weak, a new crown might be recommended after the root canal is complete.

What type of crown lasts the longest?

Zirconia and gold crowns tend to have the longest lifespan due to their exceptional strength and durability. However, for front teeth where aesthetics are important, all-ceramic crowns offer the best appearance while still providing excellent longevity with proper care.

A Long-Term Partnership

At Rabbit Creek Dental, I don't just place a crown and send you on your way. I see it as the beginning of a long-term partnership in maintaining your oral health. We'll work together to ensure your crown serves you well for many years to come.

If you have a crown that's been bothering you, or if you have questions about getting a new crown, please call our Mobile office. Let's sit down and create a plan that will keep you smiling for years. Contact Rabbit Creek Dental today to schedule an appointment with me, Dr. G.

Related Articles:

• What to Do If Your Dental Crown Falls Off
• Do I Need a Crown or a Filling? How to Know the Difference

About the Author

Dr. Gegzna (Dr. G) is a general dentist serving Mobile, AL and surrounding communities. After earning his degree from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry in 2014, he served as a dentist at the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad and on military bases in Iraq. He brings precision, care, and a patient-first approach to every procedure at Rabbit Creek Dental in Tillman's Corner.

Rabbit Creek Dental

5000 Rangeline Xing Drive S, Suite D

Mobile, AL 36619

Phone: (251) 308-0584

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. For personalized guidance about your dental health, please contact our office.