Dental crowns are long-lasting and permanent restorations used to strengthen and improve the appearance of broken, cracked, decayed, or weakened teeth. However, contrary to popular belief, they are not entirely permanent. Over time, factors such as discoloration, trauma, accidents, or structural deterioration may necessitate their replacement.
So, what are the key factors that determine the longevity of dental crowns? In this article, we will explore the elements affecting their durability and discuss how to maintain their long-term success.
What Are Teeth Crowns?
Dental crowns are highly permanent restoration that restores the function and aesthetics of a tooth that has lost its structural integrity. It is particularly used in cases where tooth structure is insufficient to support large fillings.
Additionally, it protects weakened teeth from fractures and serves as a superstructure for implant-supported prostheses. Moreover, it contributes to the aesthetic and functional rehabilitation of broken, misshapen, or discolored teeth.
Are Dental Crowns Permanent or Not?
Dental crowns cannot be considered completely permanent; however, with proper care, they can be used for many years without issues. Over time, problems such as decay, cracks, or fractures in natural teeth can also affect crowns. Therefore, like any restoration, crowns have a limited lifespan.
The longevity of a crown depends on the quality of the material used, the patient’s oral hygiene habits, and external factors. Regular dental check-ups and meticulous care help enhance their durability. In summary, dental crowns are not permanent, but they are long-lasting restorations.
How Long Do Dental Crown Last?
In restorative dentistry, the lifespan of dental crowns varies depending on their location and the material used. For example, crowns placed on anterior teeth demonstrate greater long-term durability compared to those on posterior teeth. To explore the topic in more detail:
How Long Does a Crown Last on Front Tooth?
Crowns for the front teeth are advantageous in terms of durability because they are subjected to less pressure than the back teeth. Therefore, while metal-supported ceramic crowns are used for the back teeth, materials such as zirconia and E-max are preferred for the front teeth due to aesthetic concerns. Crowns made from these materials can last between 10 and 15 years with regular care.
Additionally, chewing and grinding put more pressure on the back teeth, whereas the front teeth experience the opposite. This makes front tooth crowns generally last longer. However, this does not mean the crown’s lifespan is fully guaranteed. Some important factors affect how long a crown on the front teeth will last.
Factors Affecting the Lifespan of Front Tooth Crowns
- Teeth grinding (Bruxism) habit
- Nail-biting habit
- Poor oral hygiene
- Crown material
- Cracking hard-shelled nuts with your teeth
- Opening packages with your teeth
How Long Does a Crown on Posterior Tooth?
The durability of crowns on back teeth depends on the material used and personal care habits. For instance, metal-supported porcelain crowns can last between 10 and 15 years, while Emax and zirconium crowns generally have a lifespan of 5 to 15 years.
Therefore, metal-supported crowns are preferred for posterior teeth because durability is prioritized over aesthetic concerns. Of course, attention must also be paid to whether the patient has any metal sensitivity.
Factors Affecting the Lifespan of Posterior Tooth Crowns
- Condition of the Tooth Under the Crown
- Not brushing the back teeth properly
- Consuming hard foods
- Choosing an unsuitable material
Do Teeth Crowns Last a Lifetime?
Although dental crowns can’t last a lifetime, their permanence can be increased depending on certain factors. Elements such as ceramic quality, the connection between the substructure and superstructure, crown thickness, and cementation technique directly influence this process.
The type of material used and the application technique are also crucial in determining longevity.
Today, metal–supported ceramic crowns and zirconium crowns are among the most common options, while increasing aesthetic expectations have led to a growing interest in all-ceramic crowns. However, due to their brittle nature, all–ceramic crowns pose certain risks.
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Types of Teeth Crowns
As the demand for aesthetics and durability in dental restorations increases, various types of crowns made from different materials have emerged. Accordingly, each type of crown exhibits specific advantages in terms of biocompatibility, aesthetics, and function.
However, each type of dental crowns offers permanent and long-term solutions for the patients. This section will discuss the commonly used types of crowns and their characteristics.
Zirconia Crown
Thanks to their high tissue compatibility, zirconia ceramics are widely used in crown and bridge applications. Many ceramic systems are preferred for restorations in this area because they can only resist chewing forces in the anterior teeth. However, zirconium ceramics can also be used in the posterior region. In addition, zirconium ceramics have high durability, resistance, and optimal aesthetic appearance. Light transmittance is also excellent.
How Long Do Zirconia Crowns Last?
Zirconium crowns can be used without any issues for up to 10-12 years thanks to their durable structure. One of the key factors behind this durability is the transformation process that occurs within the material’s internal structure.
When pressure is applied to the teeth, certain zirconium particles expand, creating internal stress. This stress prevents small cracks from growing, thereby extending the lifespan of the crown. Additionally, zirconium’s resistance to temperature variations minimizes the risk of damage caused by sudden changes in heat.
Metal-Porcelain Crowns
Metal ceramic crowns are important in restoring damaged teeth to their former form. These crowns, which are applied to preserve the natural contour and texture of the tooth, offer aesthetically satisfying results. They also show high resistance to abrasion and bite force.
However, the metal substructure of metal-backed ceramic restorations may cause aesthetic problems by reducing light transmission. Furthermore, this structure may cause local tissue reactions and corrosion toxicity. For this reason, highly resistant all-ceramics have been developed to be more aesthetic and biologically compatible.
How Many Years Do Metal-Porcelain Crowns Last?
Metal-supported ceramic crowns have been shown to maintain a success rate of 89–94% over 10 to 15 years, according to research. This durability makes them a long-lasting restoration option, although porcelain fractures remain one of the most common complications. However, advancements in porcelain technology have significantly reduced this risk.
E-Max Crowns
Emax crowns are made from lithium disilicate ceramic, making them highly durable. Thanks to their translucent structure, they blend seamlessly with natural teeth. Additionally, since they are metal–free, they do not cause dark reflections in cases of gum recession. Compared to zirconia, they can be applied in thinner layers, ensuring a perfect fit and a natural appearance.
How Many Years Do E-Max Crowns Last?
Lithium disilicate-based Emax crowns stand out with their natural appearance and high biocompatibility, ensuring excellent harmony with the dental tissue. They are also a strong option in terms of durability, with a 10-year success rate ranging between 85% and 92%.
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Factors Affecting Dental Crown Longevity
The success of crown restorations in dentistry is determined by the interaction of multiple complex factors. These factors range from individual patient characteristics to treatment methods and materials used.
Factors Affecting The Permanence and Longevity of Dental Crowns
Although dental crowns are a long-term and permanent treatment, many factors affect the success of the treatment. Therefore, good research and awareness before treatment will be the key to a problem-free treatment. A detailed breakdown is as follows:
Oral Hygiene
Failure to brush teeth regularly leads to plaque and bacterial accumulation, resulting in secondary caries. Plaque accumulation, particularly around the crown margins, can cause marginal leakage and ultimately lead to crown failure.
Parafunctional Habits
Parafunctional habits such as bruxism (teeth grinding/clenching) put excessive stress on crowns, increasing the risk of fractures. Nighttime bruxism, in particular, can significantly affect the longevity of crowns.
Dietary Habits
When sugary, acidic drinks and processed foods rich in carbohydrates are broken down by bacteria in the mouth, acid is produced. This acid can damage crown materials and cause discoloration. It also creates a favorable environment for bacteria that lead to cavities.
Age and Gender
In elderly patients, systemic diseases and decreased salivary flow can negatively impact crown success. Moreover, due to hormonal changes, women may experience an increased risk of caries during certain periods.
Material Selection
The quality and durability of the material used for the crown directly affect its longevity. Different materials (porcelain, zirconia, metal, etc.) have varying advantages and disadvantages.
Preparation and Application Technique
Proper preparation of the tooth for the crown and precise application of the restoration are crucial for ensuring marginal adaptation. Improper preparation and application can lead to leakage and restoration failure.
Dentist’s Experience
The survival rate of restorations is directly related to the experience of the dentist. An experienced practitioner conducts detailed clinical and radiographic evaluations to determine the suitability of the teeth and surrounding tissues for crown placement.
Root Canal Treatment
Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment may gradually weaken structurally and become more prone to fractures. Therefore, special care should be taken when placing crowns on endodontically treated teeth.
Salivary Flow
Adequate salivary flow plays a crucial role in maintaining oral hygiene and preventing caries. Reduced salivary flow can lead to root surface caries, abrasions and loss of material, which can negatively affect the success of the crown.
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How to Care for Teeth Crowns?
The dental crowns permanent depends not only on proper application but also on the patient’s regular care. Therefore, certain important factors should be considered to enhance the durability of the restoration and maintain the health of the surrounding tissues.
Care Tips For Permanent Dental Crowns
People who receive dental crowns prefer this treatment because it is a permanent and long-term treatment. However, they should know that if they neglect daily care and regular doctor visits, the success of the treatment and the duration of use will be affected. Therefore, the main recommendations that patients should follow are as follows:
Post-Procedure Care
Sensitivity is a common experience following crown placement. To minimize discomfort, patients should use desensitizing toothpaste, and mouthwash right after the procedure. Once sensitivity subsides, they may transition to regular toothpaste for daily use.
Oral Care
Oral care should not be limited to just brushing your teeth. Especially for decay-prone teeth, attention should be paid to the cleanliness of the gums, oral cavity, and tongue to completely prevent plaque formation.
Therefore, after brushing your teeth, you can benefit from dental floss, tongue cleaners, mouthwash, and interdental brushes. Additionally, it is recommended to use a non-abrasive toothpaste when brushing your teeth.
Dietary Considerations
Carbonated and caffeinated beverages, foods high in sugar, and extremely hot or cold foods can negatively affect dental health. Additionally, cracking hard-shelled nuts with your teeth may cause wear and fractures in crowns. Therefore, maintaining a healthy diet is essential to keeping your crowns durable and in good condition.
Wear A Mouthguard
A protective night guard is a transparent, custom-made appliance designed to help control teeth grinding and clenching while preventing damage to the teeth. By creating a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, it minimizes wear and protects the tooth surfaces during sleep.
Routine Dental Visits
Regular dental checkups are essential for monitoring the condition of crowns and overall oral health. While some individuals with single crowns may require annual visits, those with multiple restorations or implants should schedule biannual examinations.
These appointments allow dentists to detect early signs of decay, gum disease, or structural concerns, ensuring timely intervention before minor issues escalate into major complications.
Do Dental Crowns Need To Be Replaced ?
Although dental crowns are permanent, they may need to be renewed after a certain period of time. However, the most important point here is the health of the tooth under the crown. In this way, dental crowns can be a permanent and long-term treatment.
Over time, dental crowns may lose their functionality due to various factors and may need to be replaced. There are several important signs indicating the necessity of crown replacement.
Conditions Requiring Crown Replacement
- Aesthetic problems
- Sensitivity and pain
- Gum problems
- Jaw and muscle disorders
- Fractures and wear in crowns
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, and sweet foods
Regular check-ups of dental crowns and seeking immediate consultation with a dentist in case of any discomfort or misfit can prevent serious complications.
When Should Teeth Crowns Be Replaced?
Signs that crowns need to be replaced include pain, apical pathology (root tip inflammation), decay, marginal discrepancy, and cement dissolution. Marginal discrepancy, in particular, can lead to more serious problems like decay and apical pathology over time.
Therefore, it is important to have crowns checked regularly and replaced if any discrepancies or damage are detected.
FAQ'S
You can find informations about dental crowns by checking the frequently asked questions.
Crowns made of materials such as E-max, zirconia, and metal-supported porcelain do not undergo biological decay. However, due to inadequate oral hygiene, individual susceptibility to caries, or marginal discrepancies in the crown’s fit, decay can develop in the underlying tooth structure.
Although the crown protects the coronal surface of the tooth, its margin is close to the gingival line, making it prone to plaque accumulation. Over time, bacteria accumulating in this area can penetrate the root surface, leading to decay beneath the crown.
Dental crowns exhibit high resistance to masticatory forces and wear. However, factors such as bruxism, biting on hard foods (e.g., ice or hard candies), or objects can lead to the formation of microcracks over time. Even the most durable restorative materials have a certain stress threshold, and prolonged exposure to excessive forces may compromise their structural integrity.
With proper care, individuals can use dental crowns as a permanent solution for many years without any problems. However, it is unrealistic to expect them to last a lifetime.
Over time, discoloration, wear, or small cracks similar to those that occur in natural teeth may develop. These changes should be evaluated in terms of both aesthetics and function, and crowns may need to be replaced after a certain period.
If your dental crown falls out, you should find it, clean it, and store it safely. Even if it appears damaged, the best approach is to take it to your dentist instead of discarding it. Until your appointment, avoid hard foods and try to chew on the other side of your mouth to prevent further damage to your tooth.
The condition of the crown depends on the extent of the damage. Small cracks or surface fractures can be repaired by your dentist using dental bonding. However, if the damage is severe, the best solution may be to replace the crown with a new one.
