How Long Do Dental Crowns Last? What You Need to Know



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How Long Do Dental Crowns Last? What You Need to Know

Written by Dr. Jesse Hofer, DMD     February 27, 2025 10:55

Here at Precision Oyster Bay Family Dental, we’ve seen firsthand how a dental crown can do more than restore a tooth—it can restore confidence. Over the years, we’ve watched smiles light up when patients see the results of their treatment, knowing their teeth look and feel great again. We know that getting a crown is an investment, and naturally, you’ll want to know how long that investment will last. 

The good news? With the right care, a dental crown can stick around for many years—sometimes even decades.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about how long dental crowns last, what factors influence their durability, and how to get the most out of your crown.

If you’re considering dental crowns and want affordable, customized options, check out Precision Oyster Bay’s cosmetic services or give us a call at 516-922-5730—we’d love to get to know you and help you restore your smile!

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

Dental crowns typically last 10 to 30 years. Quite a range, right? The lifespan depends on several factors—like the type of material used, how well you care for it, and where the crown is located in your mouth.

But here’s the thing we always tell our patients: a crown’s lifespan isn’t just about time; it’s about quality of life. A well-made, well-cared-for crown can feel and function just like your natural tooth for decades. And here at Oyster Bay, Dr. Jesse Hofer takes the time to craft and place crowns that not only look natural but stand the test of time.

Temporary Crowns

Before your permanent crown is ready, you’ll wear a temporary crown for a few weeks. It’s like a placeholder while your custom crown is being created. We always remind patients that these aren’t built for the long haul—temporary crowns are more delicate, so you’ll need to avoid sticky, hard, or crunchy foods and be gentle when brushing.

Think of it as a preview of your soon-to-come, fully restored tooth. The real magic happens when the permanent crown arrives.

Porcelain and Ceramic Crowns

Porcelain and ceramic crowns are popular for front teeth because they look just like natural enamel. These crowns can last 5 to 15 years—and sometimes longer with proper care. While they’re beautiful and highly functional, they’re slightly more fragile than metal crowns, especially if you grind your teeth.

That’s why we take the time during consultations to discuss your lifestyle. If you’re a coffee lover or someone who loves crunchy snacks, we’ll factor that into our recommendations. Your smile should match your life—without limitations.

Crowns for Molars

Molars do the heavy lifting when you eat, so crowns on these teeth need to be extra tough. For molars, we often recommend metal crowns or porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns.

  • Metal crowns (like gold alloys) can last 20 years or more—sometimes a lifetime—because they withstand strong chewing forces.
  • PFM crowns combine strength and appearance, lasting around 10 to 15 years on average.

Our team at Oyster Bay will walk you through these options, helping you choose what’s best for your bite. After all, your crown should work as hard as you do.

Key Factors That Influence Crown Durability

The longevity of your crown isn’t just up to the material—it’s also about daily care. Here’s what makes a difference:

  • Oral Hygiene: Brushing twice a day and flossing daily prevents decay at the crown’s base.
  • Diet Choices: Limit sticky and hard foods that can damage crowns.
  • Teeth Grinding: If you grind your teeth, a night guard can protect your crown from damage.
  • Regular Checkups: Catching potential issues early is key.

At Precision Oyster Bay, we emphasize personalized care. Dr. Jesse Hofer and our team take the time to understand your unique needs, ensuring your crowns are crafted and maintained to stand the test of time.

How Lifestyle Choices Affect Crown Longevity

We get it—life happens. Coffee in the morning, the occasional glass of red wine, or a love for crunchy snacks. But these habits can impact the lifespan of your crown. At Precision Oyster Bay, we don’t expect you to give up the things you love; we work with you to find solutions.

For example, we’ve helped patients transition to electric toothbrushes, which do a better job protecting crowns without aggressive brushing. Or we recommend special toothpaste that reduces the risk of stains—because your crown should fit your life, not the other way around.

Extending the Lifespan of Your Dental Crowns

💡 Pro Tip: Regular checkups allow us to spot early signs of wear and make quick fixes before they turn into costly replacements. Crowns that get regular attention often last 5–10 years longer than those that don’t.

We believe that prevention is the best medicine. So, whether you’ve had your crown for two months or two decades, we’re here to help it last.

Let’s Make Your Smile Last: Get in Touch

A dental crown isn’t just a cap for your tooth—it’s a long-term investment in your health, confidence, and quality of life. And at Precision Oyster Bay Family Dental, we take that investment seriously.

Every patient is unique, and so is every crown. Whether you’re part of our Oyster Bay family or new to the area, Dr. Jesse Hofer and the team are here to provide the guidance, care, and expert treatment you deserve.

✨ Ready to restore your smile? Let’s make sure your crown—and your smile—stands the test of time. Check out our cosmetic services to learn more about convenient and cost-effective dental crowns, or call us today at 516-922-5730—we’d love to get to know you!

FAQs

How long do dental crowns last?
Dental crowns typically last between 10 to 30 years, depending on factors like material, placement, and oral hygiene.

How long do temporary dental crowns last?
Temporary crowns are designed to last a few weeks until the permanent crown is placed.

How long do porcelain dental crowns last?
Porcelain crowns can last between 5 to 15 years with proper care.

How long do ceramic dental crowns last?
Similar to porcelain, ceramic crowns have a lifespan of 5 to 15 years, depending on maintenance and oral habits.

How long do dental crowns last on molars?
Crowns on molars, especially those made of metal, can last 15 to 20 years or more due to their durability.

What factors can shorten the lifespan of a dental crown?
Poor oral hygiene, teeth grinding, consuming hard or sticky foods, and neglecting regular dental visits can reduce a crown's longevity.

Can a damaged crown be repaired, or does it need replacement?
Minor damages might be repairable, but significant issues often require crown replacement. Consult your dentist for an assessment.

Is there a difference in lifespan between front and back tooth crowns?
Yes, back teeth (molars) endure more pressure from chewing, so crowns in these areas, especially metal ones, are designed for greater durability.

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