How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

For those considering durable dental crowns to restore damaged teeth, a common question arises - just how long do these tooth-like covers even last? The lifespan of dental crowns depends on several variables - from their material composition and location, to diligent patient care and routine dental maintenance. Understanding these factors provides helpful insight into reasonably expecting many years of service from properly placed, well-cared for restorations. 

The Purpose of Dental Crowns

Essentially caps custom-designed and shaped to resemble natural tooth anatomy, dental crowns fully envelop decayed, fractured or otherwise compromised teeth. Crowns reinforce remaining tooth structure and safeguard vulnerable inner layers. Their precise fit and durable façade provide restored form and function for durable smiles. However, they aren’t immune to typical conditions inside the complex oral environment. Their longevity relates directly to these ambient factors.

Typical Durability Spans

On average, acceptable crown lifespan ranges from five years up to 15 years or more with attentive care. Well-made crowns structurally withstand biting forces better than direct fillings, but aren’t indestructible. Gradual wear from use, trauma from injury, decay risks around crown margins or even mechanical issues like improper cementation can shorten working life. However, avoiding damage-causing habits preserves integrity.  

Variables Impacting Longevity

Several variables affect crown lifespans. Material types like ceramic, porcelain or gold respond differently within the mouth over decades of use. The unique stresses crowns withstand based on tooth positioning also matter - front incisor crowns last longer than rear chewing molar caps. Oral hygiene is paramount - letting gum disease develop chips away essential foundational support, undermining even sturdily built crowns. Also seeking prompt repairs for cracks lets Clifton dentists rescue crowns before irreparable failure.  

Extending Your Restoration Lifespans  

Practicing daily preventive dental care at home and scheduling regular professional cleanings helps maintain crown and tooth health. Using proper oral hygiene tools minimizes chewing surface abrasions or gunk buildup around crown edges. Soft diets with limited sugar intake reduce plaque acid and decay potential. Protective nightguards buffer grinding, while mouthguards shield collision damage. Such conscientious habits reward patients with optimally functioning crowns for numerous years.

Select a Savvy Restorative Dentist 

The dentist’s skill and attention to detail also significantly impacts eventual crown longevity. With extensive specialized training and years of daily practice experience placing hundreds of restorations, Dr. Dena Constandelis knows how to retain healthy underlying tooth structure for durable bonding surfaces. She considers all functional and cosmetic needs to match tooth shade/shape for seamless integration and ideal contouring that avoids bite irritation. Trust her artistry and technical excellence for long-lasting dental crown success!  

Schedule a Consult in Clifton Today

If you have more questions about dental crowns or need an experienced clinician for this permanent restoration option, please contact our Clifton, NJ office today to meet with Dr. Constandelis! Call Constandelis Dental at (973) 684-1078 for an initial exam and discussion regarding your best smile solutions.

Schedule your appointment today!

Call (973) 684-1078