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Dental crowns are a common and well-established method for restoring teeth that have been damaged by decay, wear, or large fillings. They are made to support and protect a weakened tooth, helping it return to regular function and appearance. Although crowns are built for durability, their longevity can differ based on the individual’s oral health, habits, and the materials used. It’s important to recognise that no dental restoration lasts forever, and outcomes can vary from person to person.
Several factors can influence how long a crown remains functional. These include oral hygiene habits, the condition of the underlying tooth, and whether someone grinds or clenches their teeth. Even the way your upper and lower teeth come together during chewing can affect the crown’s performance over time. Regular dental visits may assist in monitoring wear or detecting any early signs of concern.
In this blog, we’ll explore what affects crown lifespan, along with practical care tips that may support your restoration’s durability. If you already have a crown or are considering one, learning about these contributing factors can help you feel more prepared and confident in caring for your oral health. We’ll also outline when it may be appropriate to seek professional advice about an existing crown.
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Summary of the Article:
- Dental crowns are generally expected to last around 10-15 years, although individual experiences may differ.
- This estimated lifespan is not set and can vary depending on oral hygiene practices, lifestyle habits, and underlying dental health.
- Dental materials, such as porcelain, zirconia, metal, and porcelain-fused-to-metal, may influence how a crown wears, functions, and maintains its appearance over time.
- The choice of material is usually guided by clinical needs, such as tooth position, bite forces, and aesthetic preferences.
- Certain factors, such as teeth grinding, chewing ice or hard foods, smoking, or inconsistent oral care, may contribute to earlier wear.
- Dentists may suggest night guards or other protective measures if grinding or clenching habits are present.
- Regular dental visits allow for monitoring, early identification of issues, and professional cleaning to support crown longevity.
- A crown might require replacement if it becomes loose or cracked, causes discomfort, or if decay is detected beneath the surface.
Average Lifespan of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are designed to restore function and protect teeth that have been damaged or structurally compromised. On average, they may last between 10 and 15 years, although in some cases, they remain in place for longer. This timeframe is a general estimate and not absolute, as individual circumstances differ significantly.
Crown lifespan can vary widely due to several clinical and lifestyle-related factors. The following are some of the more common ones known to affect crown longevity:
- Oral Hygiene:
Maintaining good oral hygiene helps prevent plaque buildup around the crown margins. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing between teeth can help reduce the risk of tooth decay. Healthy gums and clean surfaces may contribute to the crown staying in place for longer. - Crown Material:
Different materials, such as porcelain, zirconia, metal, or porcelain-fused-to-metal, have varying properties. These materials differ in how they wear, how they look, and how they respond to biting forces. Dentists usually select materials based on clinical needs and where the crown is placed in the mouth. - Bite and Chewing Pressure:
Excess pressure or uneven bite forces can stress the crown and the tooth beneath it. This may result in small fractures, loosening, or wear over time. Bite assessments during dental visits can help identify potential issues. - Teeth Grinding or Clenching (Bruxism):
Grinding or clenching the teeth can wear down crown surfaces or cause cracks. This habit often occurs during sleep and may not be noticed until damage has developed. A dentist may recommend a night guard to reduce strain on the crown. - Diet and Chewing Habits:
Frequently eating hard or sticky foods may put stress on the crown and affect its stability. Biting ice, hard lollies, or very chewy foods can increase the risk of damage. Choosing softer options, such as yoghurt, bananas, or scrambled eggs, may help reduce that strain. - Smoking and Tobacco Use:
Smoking is linked to a higher risk of periodontal disease and plaque buildup around dental restorations. Poor gum health may affect the fit or longevity of the crown. Tobacco use can also slow healing and increase the chance of complications. - Age of the Crown:
Over time, crowns can begin to show signs of wear, such as small cracks or changes in bite. Even with no obvious issues, the cement or tooth beneath may degrade slowly. Older crowns are reviewed during routine check-ups to monitor their condition. - Regular Dental Visits:
Routine check-ups help identify early signs of wear, decay, or changes in how the crown fits. Dentists can also assess gum health and clean hard-to-reach areas around the crown. Ongoing care may reduce the risk of complications over time.
Dental Crown Materials and Their Impact on Longevity
Dental crowns are used to restore strength, function, and appearance in different situations. They may be placed over a weak tooth to prevent further damage, cover a broken tooth, or sit on top of dental implants to replace missing teeth.
The type of material chosen can influence how long a crown lasts, how it wears over time, and how it looks in the mouth. Dentists often select materials based on factors like the tooth’s location, bite pressure, cosmetic preferences, and overall clinical requirements. Each material has unique characteristics that affect its durability, surface wear, and visual appearance.
Below are commonly used crown materials and how they relate to function, wear, and aesthetics:
- Porcelain Crowns:
Porcelain crowns are commonly used for front teeth due to their ability to closely match natural tooth colour. They may be more prone to chipping when exposed to heavy biting pressure, especially on back teeth. In some cases, porcelain may also wear down opposing teeth over time, depending on the bite. - Metal Crowns:
Crowns made from metal alloys are often used in areas where durability is a key concern. They are less likely to chip and tend to cause minimal wear on the teeth they bite against. Their metallic colour may be more noticeable, which can influence where they are placed in the mouth. - Zirconia Crowns:
Zirconia is a dense ceramic material used in crowns for its ability to tolerate strong bite forces. It has a more opaque appearance than porcelain, which may be a consideration for crowns placed on front teeth. Zirconia is usually selected in clinical settings where additional strength is required. - Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns:
These crowns have a metal base with a porcelain outer layer designed to mimic natural tooth colour. The porcelain coating may chip or wear in some cases, especially if the crown is placed in areas exposed to grinding or strong chewing forces. The metal base provides a foundation that adds structural strength.
Habits That Influence the Lifespan of a Dental Crown
Everyday habits can affect how long a dental crown remains functional. Some behaviours may place additional stress on the crown or change the health of the gum and tooth around it.
The following have been linked to increased risk of crown damage over time:
- Inconsistent Dental Hygiene Habits:
Inadequate brushing or flossing can lead to plaque around the crown’s edges. This may cause inflammation or decay where the crown meets the natural tooth. These changes can affect how long the crown remains functional. - Teeth Grinding or Clenching (Bruxism):
Repeated grinding or clenching may place extra pressure on the crown, especially at night. This can lead to surface wear, small fractures, or loosening. People often don’t realise they grind their teeth until signs of damage appear. - Chewing Hard or Sticky Foods:
Hard foods like ice or nuts can increase the risk of cracking or chipping a crown. Sticky foods like lollies, dried fruits, or chewy lollies may pull at the edges of the crown, especially if the cement is wearing down. Over time, these forces can change how the crown fits. - Smoking or Tobacco Use:
Smoking is linked with gum disease, which may lead to gum recession around the crown. This can expose more of the tooth structure, increasing the chance of decay. Tobacco use may also slow healing if a problem develops. - Nail Biting or Chewing on Objects:
Biting nails, pens, or similar objects can place uneven pressure on a crown. These habits may cause wear or minor cracking over time. Some people are unaware they do this until the damage is noticed. - Using Teeth as Tools:
Using your teeth to open packaging or hold objects can cause unexpected force on a crown. This may lead to chips or loosening, especially if the tooth underneath is already weakened. Teeth are not intended for this type of stress. - Skipping Dental Appointments:
Delaying routine dental visits after your dental crown procedure may allow early signs of wear or decay around the crown to go unnoticed. Dentists can check for changes that aren’t obvious at home. Early identification may help reduce the need for further treatment.
Some strategies may help reduce wear or pressure on a dental crown. These approaches are usually discussed with your dentist based on your personal oral health needs and habits:
- Wearing a Night Guard (if recommended):
A custom-fitted night guard is often suggested for people who grind or clench their teeth. It may reduce pressure by acting as a barrier between upper and lower teeth. This can help minimise stress on the crown surface. - Maintaining Consistent Oral Hygiene:
Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between teeth can help keep the area around the crown clean. This may reduce the risk of plaque-related problems near the margins. A clean environment can help maintain the surrounding tooth and gum health. - Avoiding Hard and Sticky Foods:
Foods like ice, hard lollies, and sticky caramels can place pressure on the restoration. Choosing softer food textures, such as soups, mashed vegetables, pasta, or yoghurt, may reduce the chance of cracking or pulling at the crown. Discussing food choices with your dentist may be helpful. - Being Aware of Habits Like Nail Biting:
Reducing habits like nail biting or chewing pens can lower the amount of force placed on the crown. These actions may not cause immediate damage, but they could affect the restoration over time. Identifying triggers can assist in changing these behaviours. - Attending Regular Dental Check-Ups:
Routine visits allow your dentist to examine the crown and surrounding areas for early changes. Professional cleaning also helps manage plaque in places that are hard to reach at home. Ongoing care allows small issues to be addressed before they progress.
Role of Dental Care and Maintenance
Once a crown is placed, it becomes part of your long-term dental health—not a set-and-forget option. Over time, subtle changes can occur that affect how the crown fits, how it functions, or how it interacts with the surrounding tooth and gum. These changes may not always be visible or painful, which is why professional monitoring and maintenance play a valuable role. Regular care isn’t just about looking for problems—it’s about keeping the restored tooth working well in the context of your overall oral health.
The following are ways dental professionals may help maintain a crown and the tooth it covers:
- Monitoring for Wear or Changes:
Dentists examine the crown at each visit for signs of surface wear, microcracks, or changes in fit. Even small issues may affect how the crown functions over time. Identifying early signs allows for timely planning of next steps. - Professional Cleaning at the Crown Margins:
Plaque can build up around the edges of a crown, especially in areas that are difficult to clean at home. Dental cleaning tools are designed to reach and clean these areas thoroughly. This helps maintain healthy gum tissue and reduces the risk of complications near the crown. - Assessing Gum and Bone Health:
The stability of a crown often depends on the health of the gums and bone around the tooth. Dentists check for inflammation, bleeding, or recession that could affect crown performance. Changes to gum health may require further review or management. - Checking the Strength of the Cement Seal:
Over time, the material securing the crown may begin to weaken or dissolve. A loose crown may not always feel different to the patient, but it can be detected during an exam. Identifying this early allows the crown to be reseated or replaced before it detaches. - Evaluating Bite Pressure and Alignment:
Changes in how the upper and lower teeth meet can place uneven pressure on a crown. Dentists check for signs of shifting or bite imbalance. Minor adjustments may be recommended if extra force is being placed on the crown. - Reviewing Oral Hygiene Techniques:
Professional advice can help refine how to care for teeth with crowns. Dentists may suggest techniques or tools for cleaning around crown margins more effectively. Tailored guidance can help with plaque control in difficult-to-reach areas. - Discussing Lifestyle or Oral Habits:
During a check-up, a dentist may ask about habits like grinding, clenching, or nail biting. These behaviours can gradually wear down or damage the crown. Where needed, a personalised management plan can be discussed. - Acting on Small Problems Before They Escalate:
Routine visits give dentists the opportunity to intervene before a small concern becomes a larger issue. This may involve smoothing a rough spot, resecuring a loose crown, or managing early decay. Early care often means simpler treatment and better preservation of the crown.
When a Crown May Need Replacement
Dental crowns can last many years, but they aren’t immune to change. Natural wear, pressure from chewing, or changes in the surrounding gum and tooth can all affect how a crown performs over time. Some issues may be visible, while others are only detected during a routine check-up. If something feels different or you notice changes, a dental review is a safe next step—but replacement isn’t always required.
The following signs may indicate a reason to seek professional dental advice:
- Persistent Discomfort or Sensitivity:
Ongoing pain or temperature sensitivity around a crowned tooth may suggest changes under the crown. Possible causes include bite pressure, gum recession, or undetected decay. A dentist can assess the source and determine the appropriate next steps. - Chips, Cracks, or Visible Damage:
Crowns may develop cracks or surface wear over time, especially if exposed to grinding or hard foods. These changes can impact function, even if they’re not painful. A clinical examination can help decide if the crown is still working effectively. - Loose or Wobbly Crown:
Movement when chewing or cleaning may be a sign that the crown’s cement seal has weakened. This can create spaces where bacteria can enter and affect the underlying tooth. Re-cementing or replacement may be considered, depending on what the dentist finds. - Decay at the Crown Margin:
Decay can form where the crown meets the natural tooth, especially if plaque builds up. This may not cause symptoms early on and is often detected during dental imaging or probing. If decay is present, treatment may involve removing the crown to access the entire tooth. - Receding Gums or Gum Changes:
Gum recession can expose the base of the crown or the tooth underneath. This may lead to discomfort or changes in how the crown fits. Your dentist may recommend a review or replacement if the gum level affects the crown’s seal. - Discolouration or Ageing of the Crown:
Over time, materials used in crowns may change colour or lose their original finish. In some cases, this may also reflect wear or deterioration of the crown’s surface. While often cosmetic, these changes can prompt a conversation about replacement.
These signs don’t always mean a crown needs to be replaced. Only a dentist can determine whether intervention is required, based on a full clinical examination and discussion of symptoms. Avoid attempting to manage or diagnose crown issues at home.
How to Maximise Dental Crown Longevity
While dental crowns are designed to withstand everyday function, their longevity depends partly on how they’re cared for at home. Just like natural teeth, they benefit from consistent oral hygiene, protective habits, and routine dental visits. Being mindful of certain behaviours and taking small precautions each day can reduce the risk of damage or complications, helping to extend crown lifespan.
Below are some day-to-day proper care and maintenance tips that may assist in looking after your new crown:
- Brush Twice Daily with Fluoride Toothpaste:
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean around the crown without irritating the gumline. Fluoride toothpaste may assist in maintaining the tooth structure near the crown’s edges. Gentle brushing helps remove daily buildup and support gum health. - Floss Carefully Around the Crown:
Flossing can help clear plaque from between teeth and along the crown margins. It’s important to avoid snapping the floss, which can tug at the crown or gums. Your dentist can recommend flossing techniques that suit your specific restoration. - Use Interdental Brushes or Threaders (if advised):
In tight spaces or areas with bridgework, interdental tools may clean more effectively than standard floss. These allow better access around the base of the crown. Ask your dentist if these tools are appropriate for your oral care routine. - Limit Hard or Brittle Foods:
Chewing ice, hard lollies, or unpopped popcorn kernels can place force on the crown’s surface. Repeated pressure over time may lead to small cracks or weakening. Cutting food into smaller pieces can help reduce this stress. - Avoid Sticky or Chewy Sweets:
Sticky foods, such as caramel and toffee, can pull at the edges of the crown. If the adhesive bond has weakened over time, this may increase the chance of loosening. Moderating these foods can reduce pressure on the restoration. - Don’t Use Teeth as Tools:
Opening packaging, twisting bottle caps, or holding objects with your teeth can place uneven stress on crowns. These actions are not what dental restorations are designed for and may result in damage. Using proper tools helps avoid unnecessary wear. - Attend Regular Dental Visits:
Professional check-ups give your dentist a chance to assess the crown and surrounding gum tissue. Cleaning removes plaque in areas that are hard to reach with daily brushing. Your dentist can monitor wear or bite changes that might affect crown function. - Mention Any Changes or Discomfort Early:
If you notice movement, discomfort, or sensitivity near the crown, it’s important to raise this with your dentist. These signs may relate to minor changes that can be addressed with minimal intervention. A prompt review helps determine if any further care is needed.
Final Thoughts
Dental crowns are long-term restorations that can remain in place for many years when cared for properly. Factors like oral hygiene, diet, and daily habits can influence how long a crown remains functional. Understanding these influences helps patients look after both their crown and the surrounding tooth and gum.
Routine dental visits play an important role in maintaining crowns over time. Check-ups give dentists the opportunity to assess the fit, examine surrounding tissues, and identify early signs of wear or damage. These reviews are especially helpful for managing changes that may not be visible at home.
If you have a dental crown or are considering one, you can book a consultation with a registered dentist at Royal Dental Spa Craigieburn. A dentist will assess your oral health, examine existing crowns, and provide advice tailored to your individual needs.
