Longevity of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are like little helmets custom-made for your teeth — built to protect, restore, and shine. But as with any general dental work, crowns have a shelf life. The question many people ask is: how long do crowns last?

If you already have a crown or are considering getting one, understanding its longevity can help you protect your investment.

In this Eddie G Tennison DDS guide, we’ll walk you through what crowns are made of, how long they typically last, what affects their lifespan, and how to recognize when it’s time for a replacement.

Understanding Dental Crowns

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a cap that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth. It restores the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance.

Crowns are often used when fillings aren’t enough to repair the tooth or after root canal treatment. They act as armor, protecting your tooth while blending in with the rest of your smile.

Common Reasons You Might Need a Crown

There are a few scenarios where a crown is the best solution:

• You have a large cavity that can’t be filled
• Your tooth is cracked, chipped, or worn down
• After a root canal to prevent fracture
• You want to improve the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth
• To hold a dental bridge in place or cover a dental implant

In short, crowns serve both restorative and cosmetic purposes.

Materials Used in Crowns: A Brief Overview

Different materials offer different advantages. The material you and your dentist choose will affect both the look and lifespan of the crown:

• Porcelain and ceramic crowns match natural teeth and are often used in front teeth
• Metal and gold crowns are extremely strong and typically used on back molars
• Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns combine strength and aesthetics
• Zirconia and E-max crowns are known for their durability and natural look

Each type has its pros and cons, and your dentist can recommend the best fit based on your needs and budget.

Average Lifespan of Dental Crowns

Now for the big question: how long do crowns last? While no crown lasts forever, some last longer than others depending on the material and how well you take care of it.

Here’s a general breakdown of average lifespans:

Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns are great for aesthetics, especially on front teeth, but they’re more prone to chipping and wear. With proper care, they can last around 5 to 15 years.

Metal and Gold Crowns

These are the toughest of the bunch. While not as pretty, they last a very long time — often 20 years or more. Some have even lasted 30 years when cared for properly.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns

These offer the best of both worlds — durability and a tooth-colored exterior. But the metal underlayer can eventually show, especially at the gumline. Expect about 10 to 20 years of use.

Zirconia and E-max Crowns

These are newer, high-strength materials with a natural look. They resist fractures and wear better than porcelain alone. On average, they last between 15 and 25 years.

Factors That Affect Crown Longevity

Several lifestyle and dental factors impact how long your crown will last. It's not just about the material — it’s also about how you treat it.

Oral Hygiene Habits

Good brushing and flossing go a long way. Plaque can build up at the base of the crown, leading to gum disease or decay underneath. Regular cleanings and exams help prevent these problems.

Diet and Lifestyle Choices

Sugary foods, acidic drinks, and habits like chewing ice can wear down or damage crowns. Smoking also increases the risk of gum recession, which shortens crown life.

Grinding or Clenching (Bruxism)

If you grind your teeth while sleeping, you’re putting serious pressure on your crown. This can cause chipping, fractures, or premature loosening.

Placement and Bite Alignment

A poorly placed crown or a bite that isn’t adjusted correctly can lead to uneven pressure. That extra stress can make the crown wear out faster than expected.

Signs Your Dental Crown Is Wearing Out

Crowns give off warning signs when they start to fail. Recognizing them early can save you time and money.

Increased Sensitivity or Pain

If you start feeling pain when you chew or sip something hot or cold, it could mean your crown has loosened or the tooth underneath is decaying.

Visible Cracks or Chips

A chipped crown may not hurt, but it’s a sign of structural weakness. Cracks can also allow bacteria to reach the tooth beneath the crown.

Gum Recession Around the Crown

When gums pull back, they expose the edge of the crown and create space for plaque and decay. If this happens, your dentist should check for issues under the crown.

Loosening or Movement of the Crown

If your crown feels wobbly or comes off completely, it’s likely time for a replacement. It might also indicate issues with the underlying tooth.

Tips to Extend the Life of Your Dental Crown

You can stretch your crown’s lifespan by making a few smart choices.

Brushing and Flossing Techniques

Use fluoride toothpaste and brush gently around the crown. Daily flossing helps keep the surrounding gum tissue healthy.

Avoiding Harmful Habits

Chewing on ice, biting your nails, or using your teeth to open packaging can weaken your crown. Be mindful of these little habits — they add up.

Using a Night Guard for Bruxism

If you grind your teeth at night, a custom night guard protects your crown from excess pressure and damage while you sleep.

Regular Dental Checkups

Professional cleanings and checkups every 6 months let your dentist catch potential crown problems early — before they become expensive repairs.

Replacing an Old or Damaged Crown

No crown lasts forever. Eventually, you’ll need a replacement — and that’s completely normal.

When Is Replacement Necessary?

It’s time to replace your crown if:

• It’s cracked or chipped
• You have pain or decay underneath
• The crown is loose or has fallen out
• You notice a change in how it feels when you bite

What to Expect During Crown Replacement

Eddie G Tennison DDS will remove the old crown, check the tooth underneath, and take impressions for a new one. While your permanent crown is being made, you’ll wear a temporary crown.

Cost of Replacing a Crown

Crown replacement costs vary, but most range from $800 to $2,500. Your insurance may cover part of it — especially if it’s been more than five years since your last crown.

Comparing Crowns to Other Dental Restorations

Crowns are just one type of dental restoration. Here’s how they stack up.

Crowns vs. Fillings

Fillings work for small cavities. Crowns are better for large damage or when extra strength is needed. If your tooth is cracked or weak, a filling may not be enough.

Crowns vs. Veneers

Veneers are thin shells placed only on the front of the tooth — mainly for cosmetic purposes. Crowns cover the entire tooth and are more protective.

Crowns vs. Dental Implants

Implants replace missing teeth. Crowns restore existing ones. If your tooth can be saved, a crown is usually the more conservative (and cost-effective) option.

Eddie G Tennison DDS: Your Trusted Round Rock Dentist

For a trusted dentist in Round Rock, TX, consider Eddie G Tennison DDS at 2021 N. Mays St. Ste 1200. We offer comprehensive services, including crowns, braces, and implants, and is even board-certified in Pediatric Dentistry, extending care to special needs patients through hospital services.

Dr. Tennison, alongside his wife and practice manager Anne Cook, leads a family-oriented clinic that prioritizes comfort, quality, and affordability. We are ready to assist you with all your dental needs, whether it's your first crown or a replacement.

Our clinic operates Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM and is closed Saturday and Sunday. Call today to schedule your appointment and give your smile the best care it deserves.

Conclusion

So, how long do crowns last? The average is between 10 to 20 years, but with proper care, they can go much longer — even 30 years in some cases. Choosing the right material, maintaining good oral hygiene, and visiting your dentist at Eddie G Tennison DDS regularly are all key to making your crown last.

And when the time comes for a new one, don’t stress. It’s a routine part of dental care, and with the right dentist, it’s a smooth and comfortable process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a crown last a lifetime with proper care?

It’s possible, though rare. Some gold crowns have lasted 30+ years, but most crowns need replacing eventually due to wear or gum changes.

What happens if my crown falls off unexpectedly?

Save the crown if you can and call your dentist right away. Avoid chewing on that side and rinse with warm saltwater if you experience discomfort.

Do dental insurance plans cover crown replacement?

Yes, most dental plans will cover some or all of the cost if the crown is more than five years old or was damaged due to trauma or decay.

Will a new crown feel different from the old one?

Initially, yes. It may feel slightly off for a few days until your bite adjusts. Your dentist can fine-tune the fit if necessary.

Is crown replacement painful?

Not usually. The process involves local anesthesia, and most patients report only mild discomfort, if any.