Whether you’re about to get a dental crown or already have one, it’s normal to wonder how long it will last. Knowing what to expect can help you plan for the long term and take better care of your restoration.
So, how long do dental crowns last? It depends on several factors, like the material used, where the crown is placed, and how well it’s maintained. In this guide, we’ll cover their average lifespan, what shortens or extends it, and how to get the most out of your crown.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last on Average?
Most dental crowns last 10 to 15 years on average. However, it’s not uncommon for crowns to remain in excellent condition for 20 years, or even more.
It’s important to remember that a crown isn’t a permanent fix. While strong and durable, it can still loosen, chip, fracture, or fail due to various reasons, such as underlying tooth decay and improper installation.
The good news is that regular care and dental visits can help your crown last well beyond the average lifespan.
What Affects Crown Longevity?
Several important factors influence how long your dental crown will last. These include:
Material
Resin crowns wear down the fastest, as they are not meant to be permanent. They’re typically placed to protect a tooth while waiting for the permanent crown to be fabricated.
Porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM), and ceramic crowns last longer, but may still chip. Meanwhile, zirconia and metal alloy crowns offer the best longevity, especially for back teeth.
Tooth Location
Molars receive more force when chewing than teeth nearer the front of the mouth. As a result, crowns on molars tend to wear out faster.
Bite Habits
Grinding, clenching, chewing ice, biting your nails, or using your teeth as tools can all shorten the life of your crown.
Oral Hygiene
Even though the crown cannot decay, the natural tooth beneath it can. Decay often starts at the margin where the crown meets the tooth. If it progresses, it can undermine the crown’s support, leading to loosening or failure.
Decaying isn’t an issue if your crown is placed over an implant abutment, not a natural tooth. However, plaque can still cause gum infection and bone loss, which shortens the crown’s lifespan.
Brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits help prevent decay around the edges of the crown. Oral hygiene also protects the gums and bone, keeping tooth- and implant-supported crowns in good condition.
Fit and Placement
A well-shaped and properly bonded crown is more likely to stay in place for a long time. Poor placement or bite misalignment can increase the risk of early failure.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last? Materials and How They Compare
The type of material used to make your crown is one of the most important factors influencing how long it lasts. Here’s a closer look at the average lifespan of common dental crown materials:
Resin
These usually last three to five years. These are often used as temporary or budget-friendly options. They’re lightweight and inexpensive, but also the most prone to wear and fractures.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM)
PFM can last 10 to 15 years. They combine the strength of a metal base with the natural appearance of porcelain. Over time, the porcelain may chip, especially on molars. The metal edge may also become visible near the gums, appearing as a dark line.
Ceramic
These last around 10 to 15 years. They are often chosen for front teeth due to their natural appearance. However, they can chip under heavy biting pressure, so they may not be the best option for patients who grind their teeth.
Zirconia
Zirconia crowns are highly resistant to fractures and chipping, making them a good choice for molars and patients with bruxism. These can last 15 to 20 years or longer. They’re also biocompatible, making them less likely to trigger allergies.
Metal
Metal crowns, including gold and other alloys, often last 20 to 30 years or more. They’re highly durable yet gentle on adjacent teeth. Their downside is that they don’t match natural tooth color, so they’re usually used for back teeth.
| Material | Average Lifespan | Pros | Cons |
| Resin | 3 – 5 years | Budget-friendly, lightweight, quick solution (often temporary) | Weakest option, prone to wear and fractures |
| Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) | 10 – 15 years | Strong metal base with natural porcelain look | Porcelain may chip, metal edge may show as dark line near gums |
| Ceramic | 10 – 15 years | Natural-looking, good for front teeth | Can chip under heavy bite pressure, less ideal for patients who grind |
| Zirconia | 15 – 20+ years | Extremely durable, resistant to fractures and chipping, biocompatible | Less translucent than porcelain, can look less natural in some cases |
| Metal (Gold/Alloys) | 20 – 30+ years | Longest-lasting, very durable, gentle on opposing teeth | Doesn’t match natural tooth color, usually reserved for back teeth |
Can a Crown Last a Lifetime?
In some cases, yes. Crowns made of zirconia or metal, placed properly and maintained well, can last several decades. But that’s not guaranteed. Gum recession, changes in your bite, tooth decay, or even your own cosmetic preferences may eventually require a crown to be replaced.
So while the general answer to the question, “How long do dental crowns last?” is 10 to 15 years, some last much longer or shorter, depending on how they’re cared for and what they’re made of.
Achieve Your Dream Smile With Help From Only Crowns
Only Crowns in Sandy, Utah, is a trusted dental practice focused exclusively on crowns. Our team of highly trained doctors provides patients with quality, compassionate care at an affordable rate.
When you choose us, you can count on:
- Crowns for $699: Our rate is nearly half the cost of what most of our competitors charge. This includes everything needed for the procedure, from the crown to exams, X-rays, and nitrous oxide.
- Lifetime Warranty: if your crown chips or comes loose, we’ll repair or replace it at no cost (certain conditions apply).
- Same-day Crowns: With CEREC technology, we can scan, design, and place your crown all in a single visit.
We give patients throughout the Wasatch Front a simple, affordable path to a healthy, beautiful smile. Please send us a message or call 385-308-1010 to get started.