How Long Will Your New Porcelain Crown Last?

Once your porcelain crown is in place, it’s easy to forget that your tooth ever needed dental work in the first place. Not only does it feel natural, but it also looks like your other teeth, giving you a smile that you can show to others without feeling embarrassed. But as much as you might be enjoying the benefits of your crown, it’s important to remember that sooner or later, it will have to be replaced. The question is how long will your current restoration last and what can you do to make sure you get the most out of it? In this post, you can learn more about the average dental crown lifespan and what you can do about it.

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

The average lifespan of a dental crown is in the range of 5 to 15 years. However, it’s possible for them to last much longer. Some patients are able to keep their crowns for 25 to 30 years – and some are able to go even longer than that before they need to get a replacement! The key factors are your personal lifestyle, your oral hygiene practices, your oral habits, and the durability of the crown itself. If you get a good quality crown and take good care of it, then you’ll be able to maximize the number of years of usage that you get from it.

What are the Best Practices for Protecting a Dental Crown?

The tips below will help extend the lifespan of your crown:

• Brush two to three times every day, and floss on at least a daily basis. You should focus on preventing plaque and food particles from slipping underneath the dental crown where they’ll be harder to remove, so pay close attention to the gumline.
• Do not bite on fingernails or other hard objects, as they can easily damage your crown.
• Make a conscious effort not to grind or clench your teeth during the day, as doing so could eventually cause your crown to crack. Get a mouthguard to protect your mouth from unconscious grinding at night.
• Visit your dentist twice a year for checkups and cleanings. They’ll be able to check for damage to the crown as well as signs of decay and other oral health issues underneath.

How Will I Know My Crown Needs to Be Replaced?

You need a new crown if the one you currently have has been cracked or chipped. Even if the damage doesn’t look too bad, it could still give bacteria an opening to the underlying tooth. You should also see your dentist right away if your crown doesn’t fit properly or is throwing off the balance of your bite.

No crown lasts forever, but the choices you make can go a long way towards helping you get your money’s worth. During your next appointment, ask your dentist for additional advice on what you can do to keep your beautiful, reliable restoration intact.

About the Author

Dr. Carroll R. Butler has been in the dental field for over 25 years. He first started practicing in Kerrville in 1997, and in all that time he’s enjoyed using his love of science and dentistry to help his fellow community members smile. He uses the finest porcelain materials to make crowns, and thanks to CEREC he can have a restoration ready in just one day. If you have a dental crown that you think might need to be replaced soon, visit his website or call (830) 257-4900.