How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

Exploring your dental crown options in Mission Viejo, CA? Check out this short article from Oasis Dental to learn everything you need to know about these dental prosthetics and how long they last. 

Do I Need a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns are caps that go over a natural tooth to restore its look, strength, and function. Though they have a cosmetic effect as well, dental crowns are usually used as a part of restorative dentistry since getting one involves resizing the tooth so the cap can fit over it. 

Dental crowns are used for:

• Badly chipped or cracked teeth
• Broken or fractured teeth
• Teeth that are severely decayed or infected

Thanks to dental crowns, patients can avoid a permanent extraction even if their teeth suffer severe damage. 

Average Lifespan of a Dental Crown 

The lifespan of a dental crown can depend on a lot of factors, from its material to your lifestyle and how well you can care for it. 

Metal crowns are the most durable and can last around 30 years or more, but they don’t match your natural teeth and can lead to self-esteem issues with your smile. 

Luckily, porcelain and ceramic crowns can offer beautiful results that last for decades. Their average lifespan is around 20–30 years, possibly even more if you take care of them well. 

Here are some tips that can help you extend the lifespan of your dental crown:

• Brush and floss your teeth every day
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste
• Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth
• Eat less hard, sticky, or chewy foods
• Add more fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet to encourage saliva production
• Don’t smoke, vape, or use tobacco products
• Get routine dental cleanings and check-ups 

How Long Does the Dental Crown Process Take? 

It can take a few weeks until your dental crown is ready. Here’s a brief overview of the process:

• Preparing the tooth and taking an intraoral scan to make a 3D model
• Making the crown in a lab based on the scan, which can take 2-3 weeks
• Testing the crown once it’s ready to ensure it’s the perfect size and shape (the dentist will place it over your teeth and ask you to close your mouth)
• If everything’s in order, the crown is cemented on top of the tooth 

Sometimes, the dentist may use a drill to shave some rough edges and ensure the crown is a perfect fit. And even though the 3D model makes the process more precise, if the crown is not comfortable, it’s sent back to the lab for modifications, which can extend the timeline. 

Considering Dental Crowns?

If you have a badly damaged tooth, come find out if dental crowns are right for you by meeting with Dr. Paul Ferraro. 

Request an appointment at Oasis Dental online or call us at (949) 364-6110.