A dental crown is a tooth replacement that restores the function, feel, and look of your smile. Dentists can use crowns to restore and save a tooth that has significant damage. In this procedure, they remove all of the decay and infection, then use a crown to restore the original shape of the tooth. 

Dentists also use crowns as part of a dental implant. They do this procedure when a tooth is so decayed that they cannot save it. The tooth is extracted and then replace with an implant. The implant consists of three parts: 

• The screw that attaches to the jaw
• The abutment that connects to the screw
• The crown that connects to the abutment and looks like a natural tooth

The parts can all last different lengths of time. No matter why you’re getting a crown, knowing how long it should last can help you plan for a lifetime of healthy, happy smiles. 

Average Lifespan of a Dental Crown

You can expect a dental crown to last about 12 to 15 years with typical use. At this point, the material could break or the connections could get worn down. However, with excellent care, crowns can last 25 years or more. 

In general, insurance companies expect that crowns will last at least five years. As such, they may not pay to replace a crown that has not been on your tooth for at least five years. However, they usually will cover a replacement crown after that point. Check with your insurance to be sure.

Why Do Dental Crowns Break

Unlike natural teeth, crowns do not decay. While porcelain and metal crowns are both extremely durable, they can break. If a dental crown has a crack or chip of any kind in it, it needs to be replaced. Cracks and chips can occur when you have an injury involving the mouth or if you chew something too hard. 

Other signs that your crown needs to be replaced include:

• The gums around the tooth appear to recede
• You feel pain around the crown
• The crown feels loose

If you have any of these symptoms, contact your dentist as soon as possible.

How to Care for a Dental Crown

How you care for your dental crown can play a large role in how long it lasts. To ensure your crown lasts as long as possible:

• Brush your teeth thoroughly twice per day
• Floss at least once per day
• If you smoke, try to quit
• If you grind your teeth, talk to your dentist about solutions
• Avoid chewing on hard foods, such as ice
• Attend regular dental checkups

Dental Crowns in Holyoke, MA

One major factor in how long a dental crown can last is the skill of the dentist who does the procedure. Doctor Manohar A. Lalchandani, DDS, MAGD is proud to have extensive experience in many areas of dentistry, including crowns. He even earned the prestigious Academy of General Dentistry – Master of the Academy of General Dentistry (MAGD), a distinction that only one percent of dentists achieve. 

If you want the best dentist and team placing your crowns, contact us today. We can schedule your consultation and get you on your way to having your healthiest, happiest smile.