How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

Dental crowns are a marvel of modern restorative dentistry. It’s a way to restore the visible portion of the tooth, protect fragile teeth, and recreate a healthy, beautiful smile. But if you’re considering a crown or already have one, a natural question arises: How long do dental crowns last?

At Barbara Preussner DMD, this is a question patients ask all the time. As a detail-oriented, artistic, and continuously learning dentist passionate about blending function and esthetics, I know that understanding the lifespan of a dental crown helps you feel more confident, informed, and prepared. In this article, we’ll cover how long crowns typically last, the types of dental crowns, why some last longer than others, red flags that your crown may be wearing out, and the best care habits to maximize your crown’s lifetime.

Let’s dig in!

What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is essentially a cap, custom-designed to fit snugly over the visible portion of a tooth. Think of it as a protective helmet, restoring shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns can be made from several different materials, each with unique strengths and aesthetics.

Why might you need a crown?

• To restore a tooth with heavy decay or a large filling
• To protect a cracked, fractured, or worn tooth
• After a root canal (when the tooth’s structure is weakened)
• To improve the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth
• To anchor a dental bridge
• To top a dental implant for full tooth replacement

After shaping the natural tooth and taking digital impressions, we carefully design a crown that matches the shade and contour of your smile, for both function and beauty.

Average Lifespan of Dental Crowns

So, how long do dental crowns last? The answer depends on many factors (which we’ll cover!), but generally:

• Dental crown lifespan: 5 to 15 years is typical
• With meticulous care and the right materials: 15–20 years or occasionally longer
• Rarely, a crown may last a lifetime, but realistic expectations are important

The lifespan of your crown hinges on your oral hygiene habits, the quality of materials used, lifestyle choices (like teeth grinding), and the skill of your dentist. As a “perfectionist who will not settle for anything less,” I believe that a well-placed crown, paired with devoted patient care, can last beautifully for many years.

Can crowns last a lifetime?

It’s possible, but uncommon. Crowns face daily wear and tear from chewing, grinding, and constant moisture in the mouth. Most need to be replaced eventually, but we can help you make yours last as long as possible.

Read more on the American Dental Association's guide to dental crowns.

Types of Dental Crowns & Their Durability

The types of dental crowns available have expanded with new materials and technologies. Each crown type has its own blend of durability, beauty, and cost:

1. Resin Crowns

• Pros: Less expensive, quick to place
• Cons: Lower durability; more prone to fractures and wear
• Average lifespan: 3–5 years
• Best use: Temporary crown; rarely used for long-term restoration

2. Ceramic or Porcelain Crowns

• Pros: Most natural look; ideal for front teeth; metal-free; custom-shaded
• Cons: Can chip or fracture under heavy chewing or for those with bruxism
• Average lifespan: 10–15 years with excellent care
• Best use: Front teeth or anywhere esthetics are the top priority

3. Metal Crowns (Gold, Alloy, Stainless Steel)

• Pros: Extremely durable; resist chipping and wear; gentle on opposing teeth
• Cons: Metallic appearance not ideal for visible front teeth
• Average lifespan: 15–30 years (sometimes longer!)
• Best use: Out-of-sight molars; patients with heavy bite force

4. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns

• Pros: Good combination of strength (metal) and appearance (porcelain)
• Cons: Porcelain layer can chip over time; dark margin may become visible if gums recede
• Average lifespan: 10–15 years
• Best use: Back or front teeth needing extra strength

5. Same Day Crowns (CEREC, CAD/CAM)

• Pros: Fabricated in a single visit (no temporary crown needed); strong, beautiful, minimally invasive
• Cons: May not last quite as long as lab-made for some bite types, but technology is quickly closing this gap
• Average lifespan: 10–15 years or more, depending on care and bite stress

Our practice utilizes CEREC technology for custom same day crowns in Holliston, MA, offering convenience and precision. Learn more here: same day crowns in Holliston, MA.

Factors That Affect How Long Crowns Last

Many things impact the lifespan of a dental crown:

• Dental Crown Material: Some materials, like gold or certain ceramics, are naturally more durable.
• Fit & Placement: A perfectly fit crown installed by a detail-oriented dentist (hint: that’s our standard!) reduces future complications, wear, and leaks.
• Oral Hygiene Habits: Brushing, flossing, and rinsing diligently helps prevent decay at crown margins and gum disease.
• Lifestyle Choices: Teeth grinding (bruxism), clenching, biting fingernails, or chewing ice/hard candy accelerates wear and tear.
• Diet: Sticky foods (caramel, taffy) or hard foods (ice, nuts) can loosen or damage crowns.
• Dental Health: The tooth beneath a crown can still develop cavities; gum recession can expose crown edges, increasing failure risk.
• Routine Checkups: Regular dental visits help us catch tiny issues before they become big (and expensive) problems.

Signs Your Crown May Need Replacement

No crown lasts forever. Be on the lookout for these common red flags signaling it might be time for repair or a new crown:

• New or worsening sensitivity (hot, cold, biting)
• Gum tenderness, swelling, or recession near the crown
• Visible wear, cracks, or chips in the crown material
• Crown feels loose, wobbly, or falls out
• Dark lines at margins, or new decay showing at root edges
• Pain when biting or chewing

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your dentist promptly. “We help our patients put on their best smile every day,” and catching issues early means simpler, less invasive solutions.

Tips to Extend the Life of Your Dental Crowns

You have the power to make your crown last longer! Here are key steps for maximizing your investment:

• Meticulous Oral Hygiene Routine

Brush twice daily and floss gently under the crown margin. Use non-abrasive toothpaste and, if recommended, an antibacterial rinse.

• Wear a Night Guard If You Grind

If you clench or grind, a custom night guard can shield both crowns and natural teeth from damaging forces.

• Avoid Sticky and Hard Foods

Chewing on caramel, ice, hard candies, or nut shells can crack or dislodge crowns.

• Don’t Use Teeth as Tools

Never use your teeth to open packaging or bite fingernails.

• See Your Dentist Regularly

Schedule professional cleanings and checkups every six months. We’ll assess your crown’s condition (with digital X-rays and intraoral cameras) and catch issues early.

• Mind Your Gums

Healthy gums are the foundation for crown longevity. Treat any signs of gum disease promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should dental crowns be replaced?

On average, every 10–15 years, but it varies widely. We only recommend replacement if the crown is damaged, loose, or underlying decay appears.

How long do teeth last under a crown?

With good care, they can last as long as natural teeth. The crown itself can fail before the tooth, especially if oral care slips or gum problems develop.

How common is decay under a crown?

Decay isn’t uncommon, but it’s preventable. Excellent oral hygiene habits and professional cleanings make all the difference.

Can crowned teeth last a lifetime?

Occasionally, yes! With best-in-class care and the right conditions, it’s possible. Realistically, most will eventually require replacement due to wear and tear.

How do I get rid of bacteria under my crown?

Brush and floss daily, focusing on the gumline and crown margin. Professional cleanings every six months target what brushing misses. If you notice an odor or discomfort, schedule a visit right away.

What to Do If a Crown Fails

Accidents and emergencies happen but don’t panic! Here’s what to do if your crown comes loose or falls out:

• Retrieve the crown and store it safely (clean plastic bag or container).
• Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth.
• Keep the area clean with gentle brushing and saltwater rinses.
• Schedule a dental appointment ASAP—call your dentist immediately.
• Temporary fix: If you cannot see us the same day, some pharmacies offer temporary dental cement/paste. Use as directed for a short-term seal (never as a long-term fix).

At Barbara Preussner DMD, we leave emergency spots open in our schedule and can often help the same day with dental crowns in Holliston, MA.

If the crown can’t be repaired, we’ll discuss seamless replacement options to restore your smile.

Conclusion

How long do dental crowns last? The answer depends on your unique needs, the dental crown material, and most importantly, your commitment to daily care and regular dental visits. With attentive maintenance, crowns can give you many years of confident, comfortable smiles.

At our practice, you’re never just a number—"I listen to my patients and try to understand what they are looking for.” Ready to protect your investment in your smile? Schedule a consultation for dental crowns in Holliston, MA or same day crowns in Holliston, MA, and let us help you put on your best smile every day.