Understanding the Longevity of Dental Crowns: Key Insights and Information

Dental crowns are undoubtedly one of the most effective treatments for restoring missing or damaged teeth. But many often wonder, “How long do dental crowns last?” The answer largely depends on several different factors.

At Pines Dental Associates, experienced professionals like Dr. Milton Ruiz and his team are here to answer all your questions and provide the best solutions for your unique situation, whether you need repair or a crown tooth replacement.

To better understand the longevity of dental crowns, let’s break down the key factors in estimating their durability.

Type of Material

The type of material used for your dental crown plays a crucial role in its lifespan. Crowns can be crafted from several materials, including metal, zirconia, ceramic, porcelain, or a combination of these. At Pines Dental Associates, Dr. Ruiz prefers zirconia crowns for their exceptional strength and durability.

Oral Hygiene

Proper oral hygiene is another huge factor in determining how long your dental crown will last. While crowns do not decay like natural teeth, the underlying tooth can still form cavities if your daily oral hygiene isn’t up to par.

Routine brushing, flossing, and bi-yearly professional dental cleanings are key. Many of our clients are surprised to find their crowns in perfect shape even after a decade of use when they follow a consistent oral hygiene plan. You can enjoy a long-lasting dental crown by following a simple, easy-to-follow routine.

Teeth Grinding or Clenching

One habit that can reduce the lifespan of your dental crown is clenching or teeth grinding (also known as bruxism). These habits can wear down your crowns, leading to chips, cracks, or loosening over time.

We often recommend using a nightguard to protect your teeth from grinding or clenching. This device is custom-fitted and will protect your teeth as you sleep. This simple step can extend the look and function of all your teeth.

Location of Your Crown

The guiding principle in real estate can also apply to the longevity of your dental crown. It’s all about “location.” When dental crowns are on your molars, for example, they take on the brunt of pressure caused by chewing.

Because of this, molars tend to wear down faster than front teeth, which can also impact the durability of your crown. But, with better dental materials and proper dental maintenance, you can still enjoy years of service from your new crown, even if it’s a molar.

Lifestyle and Habits

Certain habits, such as biting your nails, chewing on ice, or using your teeth to bite hard objects, can wear down your dental crown more quickly.

Our clients who maintain their dental crowns for 15 years or more often credit some of their success to avoiding those habits as much as possible. With a little mindfulness, you can ensure your crown will serve your needs for years.

Getting Crowned

If you have questions about getting a new crown or need suggestions to help your current one last longer, call Pines Dental Associates at (954) 715-4660 to schedule your consultation. We are conveniently located in Pembroke Pines, Florida, and look forward to your visit.

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