Porcelain crowns are a favorite way to restore teeth that have been damaged or compromised. They are natural, comfortable, and want to protect your teeth for a long time. However, if you are already planning to undergo a porcelain crown, you should be surprised by the following questions: how long do porcelain crowns last on molars? The answer depends on many ideas, such as how well you maintain them, the quality of the crown, and how to live daily.
In this blog post, we will detect the life of porcelain crowns, which affects their durability, and how you can do them for as long as possible. Let’s dive!
The Average Lifespan of Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns usually last for 10 to 15 years. With good care, though, some individuals can have their crowns in excellent condition for 20 years or even longer. Longevity primarily relies on maintaining good oral hygiene and on not acquiring habits that might ruin the crown.
Even though porcelain is durable, it’s not invincible. Wear and tear will eventually catch up with it, and the crown will have to be replaced. Don’t panic – with the proper care regimen. You can make it last longer and keep your smile looking great with different types of crowns for teeth.
Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Porcelain Crowns
While porcelain crowns are durable, several factors can influence how long they last. Some of the most significant factors are listed below:
1. Oral Hygiene Habits
Daily brushing and flossing are necessary to maintain the proper condition of your porcelain crown. Although the crown itself will not rot, the tooth sits on the can. If bacteria accumulate at the margin of the crown, it can cause cavities or gum disease, which can compromise the crown’s support.
The use of a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste can even prevent the porcelain’s surface from scratching. Daily flossing also removes plaque and food particles that can create problems surrounding the crown. Maintaining good hygiene is especially important for crowning a tooth to ensure long-term durability.
2. Grinding or Clenching Your Teeth
If you grind or clench your teeth, particularly at night, you can place additional stress on your porcelain crown. Over time, this can wear down the crown, crack it, or even break it. If you know you clench your teeth, wearing a nightguard can help shield your crown and your natural teeth. Your dentist can make a custom-fit guard to protect your teeth while you sleep. This is especially helpful for how long porcelain crowns last on molars, as they bear the most chewing pressure.
3. Chewing Hard Foods and Objects
Porcelain crowns are durable but may still chip or crack if you bite down on something too forcefully. Steer clear of chewing ice, hard candy, nuts, or even pen tops, as these will put undue stress on the crown. Chewing harder foods using your back teeth and watching what you eat is always safest to avoid accidental destruction. A metal tooth crown could be less prone to destruction than porcelain, but care is still indicated.
4. The Quality of the Crown and Placement
The skill of the dentist who installs your crown and the quality of the materials may also influence its durability. A well-fitting, well-crafted porcelain crown is more likely to remain firmly in place for many years without problems. If a crown doesn’t fit properly, bacteria can sneak in under it, causing decay or gum irritation. That’s why it’s necessary to visit a competent and experienced dentist who guarantees a tight and comfortable fit, especially for a crown for the front tooth, where appearance matters.
5. Accidents or Trauma
Sudden accidents, such as falls or sports-related injuries, may hurt your crown. Contact sports with a mouth guard will protect your crowns and teeth. Even biting down on something harder than expected can result in chipping.
Being careful of what you put in your mouth can keep your porcelain crown in good condition. In the case of damage, permanent gold teeth can be an even stronger, more durable option for added toughness and protection.
Signs That Your Porcelain Crown Needs Replacement
Porcelain crowns eventually wear down over time. They don’t necessarily come with an expiration date, but they do have unmistakable indicators that it’s time to be replaced:
- Visible cracks or chips: Tiny cracks do not sound like a lot, but they can weaken the crown over time.
- Pain or sensitivity: If you experience soreness near the crowned tooth, it may be that the underlying tooth is decayed or damaged.
- Loose or floating crown: If your metal tooth crown is loose, it might not be securely attached anymore, and bacteria can accumulate underneath it.
- Gum recession: If the gums surrounding your crown begin to pull back, this will cause the edge of your crown to show and provide room for decay to set in.
- Discoloration: Although porcelain crowns do not stain like natural teeth, they can gradually lose their whiteness depending on how long they have been there.
When you experience any of these signs, you should see your dentist for an inspection. They can inspect the condition of your crown and advise if it should be replaced.
How to Make Your Porcelain Crowns Last Longer
The good news is that you can extend the life of your porcelain crowns with proper care. Here are some easy yet useful tips to maintain them in the best possible condition:
- Brush your teeth twice daily with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to ensure good oral hygiene.
- Floss daily to clear the plaque and food particles from beneath the crown.
- Don’t grind your teeth, and wear a nightguard if necessary.
- Watch what you eat. Avoid hard, sticky, or very crunchy foods.
- See your dentist for regular check-ups and professional cleanings.
- Wear a mouthguard if you play contact sports or participate in high-impact activities.
By practicing these habits, you can save your metal tooth crown and keep it going as long as possible.
Why Choose Us?
Our gentle and teeth braces stand out for our experienced professionals. Our mission is to provide our families with all phases of outstanding dental care in the convenience of one location with extended evening and weekend hours.
Our Dental care and Orthodontist services are available in the following locations: Pembroke Pines, Weston, Cooper City, and Coral Springs. We have skilled specialists who ensure you heal quickly and safely.
Final Thoughts
Porcelain crowns are an excellent solution for repairing damaged teeth. They are durable and have a natural appearance. How long do porcelain crowns last on molars? On average, 10 to 15 years, but under good care, they can remain in excellent condition for many years longer. The secret to their longevity is regular oral hygiene, no bad habits, and frequent visits to the dentist.
If you already have a porcelain crown or are planning to get one, doing the right things can help you sport a healthy, gorgeous smile for many years to come. So go ahead and take good care of your crown, and it will do the same for you. Do you have any questions regarding your porcelain crown? Appoint an appointment with your dentist to keep your smile looking its best.
