How Long Do Zirconia Crowns Last?
Our natural teeth are tough, but they aren’t indestructible. Overtime teeth wear down, or can become damaged or cracked. A dental crown may be the perfect solution to repair a damaged or weakened tooth. Dental crowns are designed to cover the natural tooth, restoring the tooth’s function and strength. While dental crowns aren’t designed to last forever, some types of crowns last longer than others. Below is more information on zirconia crowns, including what can be expected for the lifespan of a zirconia crown.
How Does a Dental Crown Work?
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), a dental crown is designed to strengthen a natural tooth that is damaged and does not have enough healthy tooth to fix with a filling. A dental crown is made to fit over a damaged natural tooth, restoring its function and protecting it from further damage. A provider may choose to use a dental crown for a number of treatments, including:
- restoring a broken or cracked tooth
- protecting a weak tooth at risk of breaking
- securely attaching a dental bridge
The Lifespan of a Dental Crown
On average, most dental crowns can be expected to last about 10 years. However, dental crowns that are well-maintained can last up to several decades. The expected life expectancy of a dental crown also depends on the material the crown is made from. If you are deciding which type of crown you want, you should consider how long you expect your dental crown to last. Additional factors that will impact the lifespan of the dental crown that you should consider when you decide on the crown material include:
- the tooth’s location 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?
One of the most popular types of crowns, zirconia crowns, are incredibly strong, durable, and resistant to fractures. Zirconia is actually the strongest non-metallic material used to make dental crowns. Due to their enhanced durability, zirconia crowns offer patients a longer lifespan. With proper daily hygiene, a zirconia crown will last at least 10 years, but likely several decades.
Factors that Affect the Lifespan of a Crown?
The lifespan of a crown will vary depending on the following factors:
- good oral hygiene: including twice daily brushing and flossing
- the crown material: zirconia and metal dental crowns offer the longest lifespan
- the crown manufacturing and the quality of the crown
- the health of the natural tooth: the natural tooth underneath the crown may require oral care or follow-up treatments.
- a healthy lifestyle: eating a healthy diet, avoiding using your teeth to open packaging, and not smoking are all important to protecting a dental crown.
- Tooth grinding: nightly tooth grinding can wear down a crown overtime.
On average, a dental crown can be expected to last 10-15 years. However, many dental providers believe zirconia crowns are the most durable type of dental crown available. With proper care, including good dental hygiene habits and regular dental check-ups, zirconia crowns can last for decades.