Dental crowns are designed to restore strength, function, and appearance to damaged teeth. Whether you received a crown after a root canal, to repair a cracked tooth, or to complete a dental implant, it’s natural to wonder how long it will last. The good news is that with proper care, dental crowns can serve you well for many years.
Average Lifespan of a Dental Crown
On average, dental crowns last between 10 and 15 years. However, many patients keep their crowns for 20 years or longer with excellent oral hygiene and regular dental visits. The lifespan can vary depending on the material used. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are popular for their natural appearance, while metal and porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are known for durability. Gold alloys, though less common today, are especially long-lasting.
Beyond materials, factors such as bite pressure, tooth grinding, and daily habits also influence how long a crown remains in good condition.
What Can Shorten a Crown’s Lifespan?
While crowns are strong, they are not indestructible. Several common habits and conditions can lead to premature wear or damage:
Chewing ice, hard candies, or non-food items can crack porcelain crowns. Teeth grinding or clenching, known as bruxism, places excessive pressure on the restoration and may cause fractures or loosening. Poor oral hygiene allows bacteria to accumulate at the gumline, increasing the risk of decay in the underlying tooth. Additionally, trauma from sports injuries or accidents can damage both natural teeth and crowns.
Being mindful of these risks is the first step toward protecting your investment.
How to Make Your Dental Crown Last Longer
The longevity of your crown depends largely on your daily habits. A consistent oral care routine helps preserve both the crown and the tooth beneath it.
Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque along the gumline. Floss gently around the crown to prevent bacteria buildup where the crown meets the tooth. If you grind your teeth at night, a custom nightguard can reduce pressure and prevent damage. Wearing a mouthguard during sports protects your crown from impact injuries.
It’s also wise to avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages or bite nails, as this can weaken or chip the crown over time.
Signs Your Crown May Need Replacement
Even well-cared-for crowns eventually show signs of wear. Watch for sensitivity, pain when biting, visible cracks, or a loose feeling around the crown. Dark lines near the gumline or gum irritation may also signal a problem. If you notice any of these changes, scheduling a dental evaluation promptly can prevent further complications.
Regular dental checkups allow your dentist to monitor the condition of your crown and address minor issues before they become major concerns. Taking care of your dental crown today helps ensure a healthy, confident smile for years to come.
About the Practice
Care 32 Dental of Fort Worth provides comprehensive restorative and preventive dental care in a welcoming, patient-centered environment. Our practice offers services such as dental crowns, implants, and routine cleanings to help patients maintain strong, healthy smiles. Care 32’s experienced doctors focus on personalized treatment plans, modern technology, and patient comfort to deliver reliable, long-lasting results for the Fort Worth community.
Call us at (817) 741-1300 or request an appointment online.