How long do dental crowns last? Well, dental crowns are considered permanent restorations which are cemented or bonded, in place over the visible portion of a tooth stump ( abutment ) to restore its shape, strength, size or improve its appearance. They can also be placed over a dental implant abutment. They are generally made of porcelain, zirconia, ceramic material, or metal.
Why would you need a dental crown?
Dental Crowns are typically placed to provide strength and protection to teeth prone to fracture such as root canal-treated teeth, teeth with large fillings, or teeth severely affected by wear. They also improve the aesthetics of teeth that are worn, discolored, or misshapen.
What determines how long do dental crowns last?
The longevity of a dental crown is influenced by several factors that will be discussed below as being either tooth-specific or patient-specific.
Tooth-specific factors
Tooth-specific factors are conditions in which a dentist determines the type of crown material best suited for a specific clinical condition. These factors can significantly impact how long a dental crown lasts and they include the following list:
- The location of the tooth to be crowned: Anterior ( front ) teeth will require highly aesthetic crowns typically made from all ceramic or porcelain. Posterior ( back ) teeth, on the other hand, will require crowns that are stronger and more durable because of increased biting forces on back teeth.
- The amount of natural tooth that remains after tooth preparation: less natural tooth structure means that the crown will need to be fabricated from very strong and durable material to increase fracture resistance.
- Crown specific factors: Though the average life span of a crown is about 10 years, a dental crown can last much longer if it is well-made and properly cared for. The material chosen to fabricate a crown will significantly impact its longevity and is done on a case-specific basis depending on the strength, durability, and aesthetics requirements.
For example, metal crowns are more durable and can last for up to 20 years, typically outlasting porcelain crowns. However, porcelain crowns possess superior esthetics and are used in cases aesthetics is a requirement. Porcelain fused to metal crowns is a great compromise for cases where durability and esthetics are required, and they can last between 10 to 15 years. The metal in these crowns makes them ideal for bruxism patients (if enough porcelain thickness is placed over the metal). Crowns such as Emax Zirconia are probably the most durable and esthetic type of crowns for patients who are habitual clenchers.
Zirconia crowns are a type of ceramic crown that is among the strongest and most durable crowns currently available, easily lasting for 15-25 years. Lithium Disilicate crowns have become increasingly popular because they are highly cosmetic, very strong, well-adapted at the margins of teeth, and can last for up to 15 years if cared for properly.
Though some patients may go their entire life without having to replace a crown, accidents, trauma, or injury to the mouth may necessitate their replacement.
Patient-specific factors
1. Poor oral hygiene will cause the tooth under a crown to decay and become loose or fracture (most commonly a problem for porcelain-fused to metal crowns). The longevity of a crown can be greatly enhanced by brushing and flossing twice per day and getting a professional cleaning every 6 months.
2. Habits such as teeth clenching and grinding (especially at night) negatively affect the stability of a crown and these patients may need a mouthguard. Additionally, chewing ice and opening bottles with teeth will also reduce how long a crown can last.
3. Medications. Patients who suffer from Dry mouth (Xerostomia) are at increased risk of tooth decay because of decreased salivary flow. Some prescribed medicines such as antihistamines and anti-depressants can exacerbate mouth dryness and pose a problem for crowned teeth.
| Type of Crown | How long do dental crowns last? | Indication | Cost |
| Non- Precious Metal | 10-15 Years | Economical/Non-visible Areas/ Temporary Situations | Low |
| Crown- Gold Yellow/White | 20-30 Years | Non-Esthetic areas, Periodontal health is a concern | High |
| Porcelain Fused to Metal | 15- 20 Years | Esthetic and Strength are required- Back Teeth | Mid-High |
| Emax Crowns | 15-20 Years | Front teeth, Excellent Esthetics, and Strength- Clenchers | High |
| Zirconia Crowns | 20+ | Back Teeth- Strength is Important. Clenchers | Mid-High |
References
- Mantizas, D. (2020, November 17). How long does a dental tooth crown last? Hove Dental Clinic.
- Lindberg, S. (2021, January 19). How Long Can You Expect a Dental Crown to Last? Healthline.
- WebMD. (2019, October 9). Dental Crowns.
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