Fostering a Lifetime of Smiles: The Longevity of Your Dental Crown

You might’ve heard that dental crowns are “built to last,” and while that’s certainly true, it’s also nice to have a more specific idea of how long you can go before you need a replacement! Different materials affect a crown’s longevity in different ways, so part of your restoration’s lifespan will depend on what it’s made out of. The other part, though, is more about how well you take care of it. Keep reading to learn how you can foster a lifetime of seamless smiles.

The Average Lifespan of Various Dental Crowns

No matter what material your dental crown is made out of, it will ultimately be durable. Crowns rarely have to be replaced before the 10-year mark, and when they do, it’s usually due to an unforeseen accident or poor oral health. That said, it’s still true that “fancier” materials will endure more wear and tear than less costly alternatives. Here’s how various options compare:

• All-ceramic  – 10 – 15 years
• Zirconia – 15 – 20 years
• Porcelain fused to metal – 10 – 15 years
• All-metal – 20 years

Promoting the Longevity of Your Dental Restoration

These averages are just that – averages. You can extend the lifespan of your crown quite a bit just by taking good care of it! Follow these tips, and your restoration could very well last a lifetime:

• Brush twice per day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste
• Floss once per day with your preferred flosser (traditional thread, water flosser, water pick, etc.)
• Visit your dentist once every six months or as soon as you notice changes in the fit or appearance of your crown
• Don’t use your teeth as tools for opening packages or bottles
• Avoid overly hard foods like popcorn kernels and jawbreakers
• Visit your dentist for a custom nightguard if you grind or clench your teeth
• Wear a mouthguard while playing rough sports

Maintaining good oral hygiene habits is particularly important. After all, research shows that daily brushing and flossing significantly reduces your risk of complications like cavities and gum disease. A little at-home care goes a long way towards maintaining your bright, seamless smile – even when it comes to a smile supported by dental crowns!

About the Author

Dr. Ronan Freyne provides high quality dental care to patients near Chevy Chase. He loves forming lasting relationships with his patients, and is always to happy to help them take good care of their smiles with expert maintenance tips. For personalized, first-hand advice on promoting the longevity of your crown, contact Dr. Freyne’s office at 301-986-0700.