Replacement Crowns

By Brian J. Gray, DDS, MAGD, FICOI

Crowns, or better known as "caps," are needed on teeth for various reasons. Some of the reasons crowns are needed are to restore broken and unesthetic teeth.

How Long Do Crowns Last?

When crowns are well made, research shows that the average length of time before a crown wears out is approximately ten years. Because each person is unique, no one can tell you how long a crown will last. Even though dentistry uses advanced materials, the most durable crown material is gold. Dental porcelain fused to gold is the next most durable, and an all-porcelain crown is the least durable.

Reasons to Replace Crowns

  • Recurrent decay around the crown edges
  • The crown material wears down
  • Broken porcelain
  • Chronic trapping of food and plaque in between the teeth
  • Poor appearance
  • Teeth need to be linked together due to periodontal disease or excessive force

What Causes a Crown to Fail Sooner Than Later?

As stated earlier, each person is unique, but there are some situations that will cause a crown to fail sooner than later.

  • Excessive force or clenching
  • Excessive grinding of teeth or bruxism
  • Failing to maintain good oral health
  • Diet high in sugar content like soft drinks, candy, and junk food
  • High decay rate
  • Severe periodontal disease
  • Parafunctional habits such as nail biting, pen chewing, and pipe smoking

How Are Crowns Replaced?

When replacement crowns are prescribed, there are certain steps that the dentist must complete. First, the crown must be removed. That can be accomplished by either wiggling the crown free or cutting the crown off of the tooth. Underlying decay should be removed and fillings should be placed as needed. These fillings are referred to as "build-ups" or "foundations" for the new crown. The tooth should then be refined and a new crown can then be placed.

No one can tell you how long a crown will last. The length of time that a crown lasts is different for each person. Therefore, maintaining regular six-month visits to your dentist is extremely important, if you want to maintain a healthy mouth.