So you’ve gotten your dental crown and now you’re wondering: How long will my crown last? Well, that depends! The average lifespan of a dental crown is anywhere from 10 to 30 years, but like everything in life – there are no guarantees.
1. Regular wear and tear
Like with your other teeth, a crown will be subject to regular wear and tear from the natural bacteria in your mouth, the acidity and sugars in food and drinks, your dental health habits, and whether you clench your jaw or grind your teeth.
2. Placement
Placement is another factor that can determine the lifespan of a dental crown. A crown on an front tooth (incisor) will likely last much longer than a crown on a molar. This is because the molar is more involved in the impact of chewing.
3. Original tooth and fit
The lifespan of your dental crown can also be affected by the amount of tooth it has to adhere to and the fit of the crown on your tooth. Your dentist will do their best to ensure that your crown fits nice and snug so there’s no space for bacteria or food to make it’s way underneath it.
4. Material
The material of the dental crown. A metal crown, for example, is naturally stronger than a porcelain crown, so the former will last longer. But patients tend to prefer porcelain crowns as they match the colour of the rest of your teeth.
These are just 4 factors that affect the lifespan of a dental crown. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at (617) 332-2872 or ask at your next appointment.
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