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Updated: February 26, 2025
Dental crowns generally last between 5 and 15 years, but the actual lifespan hinges on several factors, including the crown's material, where the crown is located in the mouth, and the patient's oral habits.
On average, resin crowns have a short lifespan of only 5 to 7 years, porcelain and ceramic crowns typically last 10 to 15 years and metal crowns can exceed 15 years.
Crowns are custom-made restorations used to cover and protect damaged or weakened teeth. In Chicago, the lifespan of dental crowns varies significantly based on the material used.
Effective crown care, including routine dental checkups and proper oral hygiene, maximizes lifespan. Avoiding hard foods and biting directly on very hard objects can prevent premature wear or damage.
Porcelain crowns are often applied to front teeth due to their natural-looking appearance and aesthetic appeal. They are made from a durable, tooth-colored ceramic material.
On average, porcelain crowns can last between 10 and 15 years, though with excellent care, some may last even longer.
Typically crafted from gold, platinum, or base-metal alloys like nickel or chromium, metal crowns are exceptionally strong. They're highly resistant to chipping or breaking, making them an ideal choice for restoring molars, which endure the brunt of chewing and grinding.
The average lifespan of metal crowns can extend well beyond 15 years, sometimes even lasting a lifetime. The lifespan depends on the patient's maintenance routine and biting habits.
Ceramic crowns, crafted entirely from advanced dental ceramics, are a popular choice for restoring front teeth or highly visible areas due to their lifelike appearance and translucency that closely mimics natural enamel.
While ceramic crowns aren’t quite as durable as metal crowns, they generally last between 10 and 15 years with proper care. Their longevity depends on factors like oral hygiene, avoiding hard or sticky foods, and managing habits like teeth grinding.
Resin crowns are an affordable, tooth-colored option for dental restorations. They are often used as temporary crowns or when cost is a major consideration. Made from composite resin material, these crowns are less durable than porcelain, metal, or ceramic crowns.
On average, resin crowns last around 5 years but sometimes endure for up to 10 years, depending on placement and maintenance. They are, however, more prone to wear, chipping, and staining over time.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns have a metal core that provides strength and a porcelain outer layer that mimics the look of natural teeth, making them a versatile choice for both front and back teeth.
This combination allows PFMs to withstand chewing forces better than all-porcelain crowns while still offering a realistic appearance. With proper care, PFM crowns can last around 10 to 15 years or even longer.
Zirconia crowns are made from zirconium dioxide, a durable ceramic material known for its strength and natural-looking, tooth-like translucency. These crowns are especially popular for back teeth, where durability is essential, but they can also be used on front teeth.
With proper care, zirconia crowns can last 15 to 20 years or even longer due to their high resistance to fractures, chipping, and wear.
An E-Max crown, made from lithium disilicate, is an advanced type of all-ceramic crown known for its exceptional strength, durability, and lifelike translucency, making this an ideal choice for highly visible areas like the front teeth.
This material offers a natural look that blends seamlessly with surrounding teeth while being less prone to chipping than traditional porcelain. E-Max crowns can last 10 to 15 years or more with proper oral care, though their longevity depends on the care given.
The lifespan of a dental crown can vary widely, depending on several key factors. While the quality and type of material used in the crown play a significant role, other aspects, such as personal habits, oral hygiene, and dental care routines, are equally important.
The type of material used for a crown significantly affects its durability, appearance, and resistance to wear.
Choosing the right crown material depends on balancing durability needs with aesthetic preferences, placement in the mouth, and budget considerations.
For example, metal crowns tend to last the longest due to their strength and resilience. Porcelain and porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns offer aesthetic advantages but may be more prone to chipping, especially on back teeth.
Zirconia and E-Max crowns combine durability with a natural look, making them suitable for both front and back teeth. Resin crowns, while affordable, tend to have a shorter lifespan due to their susceptibility to wear and staining.
Crowns placed on back teeth and molars, which endure more pressure from chewing and grinding, may wear down faster than those placed on front teeth. Crowns for these teeth should be made from durable materials such as metal or zirconia.
Front teeth crowns tend to be made from porcelain or ceramic because aesthetics are a priority, but these materials, while strong, may require more careful maintenance to avoid chipping or cracking.
Good oral hygiene is vital for maintaining the longevity of dental crowns. Plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease can weaken the underlying tooth structure and lead to crown failure.
Regular brushing, consistent flossing, and using antibacterial mouthwash can help keep the crown and surrounding gum tissue healthy. Neglecting oral care can lead to gum recession or cavities that affect the bond between the crown and the tooth, potentially shortening its lifespan.
A diet high in sugary or acidic foods can contribute to plaque buildup, which may lead to tooth decay around a crown. Similarly, hard foods like ice, nuts, or crunchy candies can put excessive pressure on crowns, potentially causing cracks or fractures.
Foods that are very sticky or chewy can also dislodge or loosen crowns. Maintaining a low-acid, low-sugar diet and avoiding hard and sticky foods can help prolong the life of a crown.
Teeth grinding (bruxism) and clenching can significantly shorten the lifespan of dental crowns. These habits put immense pressure on the crown and can lead to cracks, chips, or even complete failure over time.
Nighttime grinding is particularly damaging, as it often goes unnoticed. For those who grind or clench their teeth, wearing a nightguard or taking other protective measures can help reduce the strain on crowns and prevent unnecessary wear.
Regularly maintaining good gum health through proper hygiene and professional cleanings can prevent complications that lead to premature crown replacement.
Gum disease or recession can weaken the bond between the crown and the tooth, increasing the likelihood of crown failure. When gums recede, they may expose the metal base of crowns, especially in porcelain-fused-to-metal types, causing aesthetic concerns.
A poorly fitted crown may lead to discomfort, pain, or even tooth decay beneath the crown. A dentist's expertise in preparing the tooth and ensuring a proper fit is vital to achieving a long-lasting result.
Precision during the placement process minimizes the risk of complications and ensures that the crown will stay securely in place for years.
Routine dental checkups are essential for monitoring the health of both the crown and the underlying tooth. Regular visits allow your dentist to promptly identify potential issues, such as loosening, wear, or decay, that could compromise the crown’s lifespan.
A dentist may be able to cement a crown back in place if it becomes loose or signs of gum disease or tooth problems are detected before the crown requires expensive repairs or a full replacement.
Crown maintenance and prevention strategies are vital for sustaining their functionality and appearance. Meticulous cleaning and consistent care can significantly extend the durability of these dental restorations.
Key maintenance tips include:
Many people unknowingly engage in habits that can drastically shorten the lifespan of their dental crowns.
Over time, even well-fitted crowns can deteriorate or become damaged, leading to the need for a new crown. Here are key indicators that a replacement might be necessary:
Dental crowns in the Chicago area typically last between 5 and 15 years, but their longevity relies on proper maintenance and lifestyle choices.
Regular dental checkups, adherence to good oral hygiene practices, and avoiding habits like teeth grinding can significantly extend a crown's life.
Recognizing early signs of wear or damage and consulting a dentist promptly for potential replacement can help maintain oral health and the crown's functionality.
In some cases, a dental crown can be repaired if it has minor damage, such as chips or cracks. However, extensive damage often requires the crown to be replaced. A dentist will assess the damage and determine whether repair or replacement is the best option.
Dental crowns typically need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years, though they can last longer with proper care. Factors such as wear, damage, and changes in the underlying tooth structure can impact how long a crown lasts before it needs replacing.
Teeth under a crown can last many years with proper care. The crown helps protect the underlying tooth from further damage, decay, or fracture. However, if the tooth becomes weakened, decayed, or damaged over time, it may eventually need further treatment.
Crowns on front teeth, especially porcelain or ceramic ones, offer good strength and durability but are more susceptible to chipping or cracking due to the materials used. Materials such as zirconia or E-Max are popular due to their strength and aesthetic appeal.
Need to repair a damaged tooth? Forever Dental specializes in high-quality dental crowns in Chicago, restoring strength and aesthetics to your smile. Schedule your visit for custom dental crowns in Archer Heights, Chicago or book an appointment for dental crown solutions in Brighton Park, Chicago today. Let us help you smile with confidence!
