One of the most common questions dentists get is, “How long do dental crowns last?”

Of course, now that you’ve invested in your oral health and gone all the way to get that crown placed, you definitely expect it to last and be worth every bit of the cost. Well, here’s some good news: the longevity of a dental crown is actually pretty decent, as long as you take care of it right. So, let’s see what really affects how long your crown will stay put and how you can make the most of it.

PS: If you are looking for the best dentists for crowns, your search ends here. Dr. HAL N. ARNOLD, DDS, is considered one of the best dentists in Atlanta by hundreds of satisfied patients. We offer quality care and the best treatment options.

So, What’s the Average Lifespan of Dental Crown?

The average life of a dental crown is somewhere around 10-15 years. But with proper care, some people manage to extend it well beyond that. Having said that, the lifespan also depends on what the crown is made of. Here’s how long they last:

• Porcelain crowns (often chosen for front teeth because they look super natural): about 10–15 years.
• Zirconia crowns (super tough and modern): 15–20+ years.
• Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns: 10–15 years, but sometimes the metal starts to show over time.
• Gold crowns (yep, still a thing for back molars): can last 20 years or more.

So yes, the material you and your dentist choose makes a world of difference.

What Makes a Crown Last (or Not)?

A few things can really impact your dental crown durability:

• Oral hygiene: Not brushing or flossing properly? Bacteria can sneak in around the edges and cause decay under the crown.
  
• Diet: Crunching on ice, hard candy, or biting your nails? Not crown-friendly.
  
• Grinding your teeth: Even unknowingly clenching at night can wear down or damage your crown over time.
  
• How it was placed: A well-done crown with a perfect fit = longer life. So, your dentist’s skill matters a lot here.

When Should You Start Worrying?

Crowns won’t last forever, but they often give you a few warning signs when it’s time for a replacement:

• You feel pain or sensitivity in that tooth again.
• The crown feels a bit loose or wobbly when you chew.
• You spot cracks, chips, or visible wear.
• There’s discoloration, especially if you’ve got a PFM crown and the metal is starting to peek through.

If anything feels off, don’t wait. Get it checked out.

How to Care for Dental Crowns?

Adopting some good habits can extend crown life. Just follow these simple tips:

• Brush and floss daily—especially around the gum line.
  
• Avoid sticky and hard foods that can pull or crack the crown.
  
• Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
  
• If you grind your teeth, wear a nightguard. Seriously, it makes a big difference.
  

Final Thoughts

Your dental crown is more than just a fix—it’s an investment in your smile. With a little effort and the right habits, you can keep it in great shape for years.

Have more questions about dental crowns?

Our expert dentists, Dr Mariam Bakheet and Dr Hal N Arnold, will be more than happy to answer them for you! Book your appointment today.