How long do dental crowns last?

01What a crown does

A dental crown is a cap that covers the whole visible part of a tooth. It is shaped and colored to look like a natural tooth. Crowns are used to protect a tooth that is cracked, weakened by a large filling, worn down, or treated with a root canal. They can also cover a tooth that is badly shaped or stained.

The crown itself cannot get a cavity. The tooth underneath still can, especially where the edge of the crown meets the tooth. That edge is where most long-term problems begin.

02What affects how long a crown lasts

The material

Crowns are made from several materials, including porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, metal alloys, and porcelain fused to metal. Each has strengths. Some are stronger, some look more natural, and some are better for back teeth that take heavy chewing forces. Your dentist will explain which material fits your tooth and why.

Where the tooth is

Back teeth do most of the chewing. A crown on a molar takes more force than one on a front tooth, so it may wear faster.

Grinding and clenching

Bruxism is the habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, often during sleep. Many people do it without knowing. It puts heavy force on crowns and natural teeth and can chip or crack them over time.

Signs include a sore jaw in the morning, headaches near the temples, and teeth that look flat or worn. Dentists often suggest a night guard for people who grind. [OFFICE TO CONFIRM: whether night guards are offered at this office]

Daily habits

Chewing ice, hard candy, pens, or fingernails can damage a crown. So can using your teeth to open packages or bottles.

Cleaning around the crown

Plaque that sits at the edge of a crown can cause decay in the tooth underneath or gum problems around it. Good brushing and flossing are the most important things you can do to make a crown last.

03How to help your crown last

• Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, paying attention to the gum line around the crown.
• Floss or clean between your teeth once a day. Slide the floss out sideways if it catches on the crown.
• Avoid chewing ice and very hard foods.
• Do not use your teeth as tools.
• Tell your dentist if you think you grind or clench.
• Keep up with regular cleanings and checkups so small problems are found early.

04Signs your crown may need attention

Call the office if you notice:

• The crown feels loose or moves when you chew
• A chip or crack in the crown
• Pain or sensitivity in the crowned tooth
• A dark line or gap at the gum line
• Swollen or bleeding gums around the crown
• A bad taste or smell near the tooth
• Your bite feels different

If a crown falls off

Keep the crown in a safe container and bring it with you. Call the office as early in the day as you can. The front desk will look for the soonest time open.

Until then, chew on the other side and keep the area clean. Do not try to glue the crown back with household glue. If the tooth underneath hurts, use over-the-counter pain relievers as directed on the label, if they are safe for you.

05What happens when a crown wears out

Crowns do not last forever. When one wears out, the dentist removes it, checks the tooth underneath, treats any decay, and places a new crown. If the tooth has too much damage, other options such as a bridge may be discussed. Catching a problem early often means a simpler fix.

06Getting a crown at Americana Family Dental

Dr. Wael Sadek checks crowns at every exam. He looks at the edges, the fit, and the gums around them, and he uses X-rays when needed to see the tooth underneath. If you need a new crown or a replacement, he will explain the steps and the material choices in plain language. Dr. Sadek speaks English and Arabic.

The office is open Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM, at 2067 Americana Blvd in Orlando. Learn more about dental crowns at our Orlando office, or call (407) 850-0133.

Next step: dental crowns at our Orlando office. We see patients from across south Orlando — see areas we serve and drive times.