How Long Do Dental Crowns Last? 5 Ways to Make Them Last Longer

Dental crowns are one of the most common and effective solutions for restoring damaged or weakened teeth. If you're planning to get one, or already have a crown, a common question might be: how long will it last?

At Varnidental, we believe in helping you understand your dental treatments fully, so here’s a detailed guide on the average lifespan of crowns, what affects their durability, and how you can extend their life with simple habits.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is essentially a protective cap placed over a tooth. It’s used to restore the tooth’s shape, strength, and appearance, especially after treatments like root canals, large fillings, or for cosmetic purposes. Once bonded, it becomes a permanent part of your mouth and functions just like your natural tooth.

So, How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

In general, dental crowns can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years—sometimes even longer. The actual lifespan depends on several factors:

• Type of material used for the crown
• Quality of placement
• Your oral hygiene habits
• Biting or grinding forces on the tooth

For instance, crowns made of materials like zirconia or gold tend to last longer than those made of porcelain alone. However, porcelain and ceramic crowns are often preferred for their natural, tooth-like appearance—especially on front teeth.

Common Reasons Crowns Fail Early

Even though crowns are durable, they can still wear down or fail prematurely if not properly cared for. Here are some common causes:

• Poor oral hygiene that leads to decay at the base of the crown
• Grinding or clenching teeth at night
• Biting on hard items like ice or hard candy
• Trauma or injury to the mouth
• Gum recession or infection near the crown

The good news? Most of these issues are preventable with the right habits and regular dental care.

5 Ways to Make Your Crown Last Longer

1. Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene

Even though the crown itself won’t decay, the tooth underneath it still can. It’s crucial to brush at least twice a day and floss daily, especially around the base of the crown, to prevent plaque buildup.

Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste helps protect your teeth and gums without damaging the crown edges.

2. Avoid Teeth Grinding or Clenching

Grinding your teeth—especially at night—puts excessive pressure on both natural teeth and crowns. Over time, this can wear down or even fracture your crown.

If you grind or clench your teeth, your dentist may recommend wearing a custom night guard to protect your dental work while you sleep.

3. Watch What You Eat

Try to avoid chewing on very hard or sticky foods that could crack, loosen, or pull off your crown. Things like ice cubes, hard candy, popcorn kernels, and sticky caramel can all be harmful.

Stick to softer, tooth-friendly foods, and avoid using your teeth to open packages or bite nails!

4. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Routine checkups allow your dentist to monitor the condition of your crown and the tooth beneath it. Your dentist can spot early signs of wear, decay, or shifting and address them before they become serious problems.

We recommend visiting the dentist every 6 months for a professional cleaning and exam.

5. Avoid Smoking

Smoking doesn’t just harm your overall health—it also impacts your oral health. It can stain your crown, increase your risk of gum disease, and weaken the supporting structure of the tooth.

If you want your crown—and your smile—to last, cutting back or quitting smoking can make a big difference.

Signs It Might Be Time to Replace Your Crown

Even with excellent care, no crown lasts forever. Here are some signs that it might be time to replace yours:

• The crown feels loose or wobbly
• You experience pain or sensitivity around the crown
• The crown has visible cracks or chips
• You notice gum recession or dark lines around the edges
• The crown no longer matches the shade of your surrounding teeth

If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait—schedule a checkup with us at Varnidental.

Why Choose Varnidental for Crown Treatment?

At Varnidental, we combine advanced dental technology with a personalized approach to care. Whether you need a new crown, a replacement, or just a second opinion, our goal is to restore your smile with comfort, precision, and long-term durability in mind.

We offer a range of materials and will help you choose the best one based on your dental needs and budget. Our gentle, patient-centered team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Final Thoughts

Dental crowns are a reliable and long-lasting solution—but just like your natural teeth, they require care and attention. With proper hygiene, smart food choices, and regular dental visits, your crown can last well over a decade.

If you have questions about your crown or are considering getting one, reach out to Varnidental today. We’re here to help you keep your smile strong and beautiful for years to come.