How Long Do Zirconia Crowns Last?
Over time our teeth can be worn down, damaged or cracked by everyday wear and tear. If a tooth is damaged, a dental crown may be the perfect solution to repair the tooth. Dental crowns were designed to cover the natural tooth, helping to restore the tooth’s shape, function, and size. Unfortunately, dental crowns don’t last forever. Below is more information for you on zirconia dental crowns, and what you can expect for the lifespan of your crown.
What is the Purpose of a Dental Crown?
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), the purpose of a dental crown is to strengthen a natural tooth that may need repair, but does not have enough healthy tooth to fix with a filling. Additional reasons a dental provider may use a dental crown include:
- restoring a broken or cracked tooth
- protecting a weak tooth from breaking
- securely attaching a dental bridge
- protecting a fragile tooth
The Lifespan of a Dental Crown
On average, a dental crown can be expected to last approximately 10 years. But dental crowns that are well-maintained can last several decades. The lifespan of a dental crown will also depend on the material the crown is made from. Therefore, you should consider how long you want your dental crown to last when you are deciding which type of crown is right for you. Additional factors that you should consider when deciding on the best crown material include:
- the location of the tooth in the mouth
- the amount of the natural tooth still remaining
- the visibility of the crown in the mouth
How Long Do Zirconia Crowns Last?
Zirconia crowns, a type of ceramic crown, are incredibly strong, durable, and resistant to fractures. According to dental professionals, zirconia is actually the strongest non-metallic material for crowns. With proper daily hygiene and oral care, a zirconia crown can last at least 10 years, but likely several decades.
What Affects the Lifespan of a Crown?
The lifespan of a crown can vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- a good oral hygiene regimen with twice daily brushing and flossing
- the material the crown is made of
- the crown manufacturing and the quality of the crown
- the health of the tooth being repaired
- a healthy lifestyle including eating a healthy diet, avoiding using your teeth to open packaging, or chewing hard foods, and not smoking
- Tooth grinding and jaw clenching, especially at night, can wear down a crown overtime and impact its stability and durability
The average lifespan of a dental crown is estimated to be 10-15 years. However, dental crown providers believe zirconia crowns are the most durable dental crown available. With proper care, good dental hygiene habits, and regular dental check-ups, zirconia crowns can last for decades. If your dentist has recommended you need a dental crown and you are considering which material your crown should be made of, have a conversation with your dentist today about the cost, durability, and other pros and cons of zirconia dental crowns.