What Is the Lifespan of a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns in Louisville are one of the most common dental procedures and a crucial component of restorative dentistry.

If you’ve been told you need a crown or have an old one that might need changing, you’re probably wondering: 

How long does it last? 

Keep reading to find out:

What Are Dental Crowns Used for?

Dental crowns are small caps used to restore the look, strength, and function of a natural tooth.

It’s usually necessary when the tooth is damaged in some way, such as:

• A large cavity or infection
• Large crack or chip
• Worn-down teeth
• Enamel erosion
• Broken or fractured tooth, etc.

Getting a dental crown requires resizing a tooth so that the cap can be cemented on top. As a result, it’s only used when there is some level of damage present to the tooth enamel and is not recommended purely for cosmetic purposes. 

The Average Lifespan of Dental Crowns

How long a dental crown lasts usually depends on how well you take care of it as well as the material it’s made from.

For example, zirconia crowns are less likely to chip or crack and can last as long as 15 years. Porcelain and metal crowns are less durable and can last around 5–10 years. 

Patients can improve the lifespan of their crowns through:

• Good oral hygiene habits (daily brushing and flossing, using fluoride toothpaste, etc.)
• Not chewing on hard objects or eating lots of hard foods
• Eating more fresh fruits and vegetables to encourage saliva production
• Not smoking
• Wearing a mouthguard to protect the teeth and crown from grinding or during contact sports
• Seeing the dentist routinely for check-ups and professional dental cleanings 

How to Know When a Crown Needs to Be Replaced

Dental crowns don’t just restore your smile’s appearance. They’re supposed to protect the natural tooth underneath from bacteria and infection.

If a crown is damaged, the tooth is at higher risk for oral health issues since it’s already in a vulnerable state.

Some signs you need to replace your dental crown include:

• Visible damage to the crown (such as a large chip)
• Loose dental crown
• A toothache
• Gum swelling
• Increased sensitivity to heat and cold, etc.

If you notice any of these signs, you should see a dentist as soon as possible about replacing it. During your appointment, the dentist may remove your old crown and provide a temporary one to protect your tooth until the new dental crown is ready.

Need a New Dental Crown? Perennial Dental Can Help

If your tooth is damaged or you have an old dental crown that needs replacing, see Dr. William Newman for a short consultation to get a new custom crown that suits you perfectly! 

Request a visit to Perennial Dental online or call us at (502) 458-5292 for more information about our dental crown services and how we can help.