Reading time: five minutes.
When your dentist suggests getting a dental crown, you might be wondering, “Is this permanent? Will I ever need to replace it?” It’s a common question, and the answer may surprise you!
In this blog, we will explain what dental crowns are, how long they last, and what you can do to extend their longevity.
Crowns are durable and designed to last for many years, but they are not permanent. With proper care, you can extend the lifespan of your crown, but eventually, it may need to be replaced. Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene are key to keeping your crown—and your smile—protected for as long as possible.
Understanding Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a custom-made cap shaped like a tooth. The crown is placed over a decayed or damaged tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns are often used to cover damaged teeth, reinforce weakened teeth, or follow procedures such as a root canal. You can think of it as a long-lasting restoration that helps shield your tooth from further harm.
Are Dental Crowns Permanent?
Dental crowns are built to last, but like many things, they don’t last forever. A permanent crown may last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, depending on various factors like material, oral hygiene, and lifestyle choices. However, with proper care, some people manage to keep their crowns for 20 years or more!
So, while the crown is a long-term dental restoration, it’s not completely permanent. You will need to replace it eventually, especially if it wears down or becomes loose over time.
Types of Crowns and Their Materials
There are different types of crowns, each made from a variety of materials. The material your crown is made from plays a huge role in its lifespan.
Materials used in dental crowns include:
- Porcelain crowns: Known for their natural appearance, they’re great for cosmetic dentistry but may not be as durable as other types.
- Metal crowns: Typical made from gold, these are incredibly durable but less aesthetically pleasing.
- Zirconia crowns: A combination of strength and beauty, making them a popular choice.
- Resin crowns: While affordable, they’re not as strong as metal crowns or porcelain crowns.
- All-ceramic crowns: These provide a natural look but may not last as long as metal-based crowns.
The type of crown you choose can depend on personal preferences, the location of the tooth, and how much chewing force that tooth experiences.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Crowns are important for maintaining the health and appearance of damaged teeth. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Protecting a weakened tooth: Crowns strengthen teeth that are too damaged for fillings.
- Restoring a broken tooth: Crowns can rebuild the structure of broken teeth, giving you back the ability to chew.
- Supporting a dental bridge: A crown can act as an anchor for a dental bridge, closing gaps from missing teeth.
- Cosmetic enhancement: For those looking to improve their smile, crowns can be used for cosmetic modification to create a flawless appearance.
Factors Affecting the Lifespan of Dental Crowns
Several factors determine how long your dental crown will last. Here are a few to keep in mind:
- Material of the crown: Metal crowns last longer than porcelain crowns, which are more prone to chipping.
- Oral hygiene: Poor oral hygiene can lead to issues like gum disease, which may weaken the crown’s stability.
- Personal habits: Chewing on sticky foods or ice can damage your crown. If you grind your teeth, your crown could wear down faster.
- Location of the crown: Crowns on back teeth endure more pressure, so they might not last as long as those on front teeth.
Long-Term Expectations for Dental Crowns
You should expect your dental crown to last at least 5–15 years, with the potential for a longer lifespan if you take special care of your oral health. Here’s how you can extend the longevity of your crown:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss regularly to prevent gum disease from compromising the stability of your crown.
- Avoid chewing hard objects like ice or pens.
- Visit your dentist for regular check-ups. These visits are critical for catching any issues with your crown early, allowing for adjustments before it’s too late.
FAQs
Dental crowns themselves do not damage teeth; in fact, they are designed to protect and restore damaged or weakened teeth. However, improper placement or the use of a crown that does not fit correctly can potentially lead to complications, such as tooth sensitivity or decay beneath the crown.
They can come off for various reasons, including decay underneath the crown, a poor fit, or excessive biting forces. In some cases, the cement holding the crown can weaken over time, leading to detachment. If your crown does come off, it can be put back on. Make sure you place the crown somewhere safe so that it doesn’t get damaged, and book an appointment to see a dentist right away. You will have a visible gap in your smile, so chances are you won’t want to wait too long!
The choice between crowns and veneers largely depends on the condition of your teeth and your specific dental goals. Crowns provide more extensive coverage and durability, making them suitable for heavily damaged or weakened teeth. On the other hand, veneers are primarily a cosmetic solution used to improve the appearance of front teeth and require less tooth reduction.
Morris Dental Solutions: Your Partner in Oral Health
So, are dental crowns permanent? Not quite. But with the right dental care and attention, your crown can last many years. When the time comes to replace it, you’ll be better prepared and know exactly what to expect.
At Morris Dental Solutions in Buffalo Grove, IL, we offer high-quality dental crowns that are custom-made to fit your unique smile. Our team of experienced dentists will guide you through the process and provide excellent after-care instructions.
If you are searching for ‘dental crowns near me’ or a ‘dentist in Buffalo Grove, IL’ we can help! Call (847) 215-1511 to book an appointment or complete the online inquiry form.
Additional Resources
Tooth Sensitivity After a Crown? Here’s What You Need to Know
