What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown (or “cap”) is a custom-made cover that restores a tooth’s shape, strength and appearance. We recommend crowns when a tooth is too damaged for a filling, after root canal treatment, or for cosmetic improvements such as reshaping or colour correction. Crowns are also used on implants and in full smile makeovers.

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

Most well-made crowns last around 10-15 years. Many last longer when:

The tooth is well prepared
The crown fits precisely
The bite is balanced
You maintain good oral hygiene

Professional bodies such as the NHS and the Oral Health Foundation quote a 5-15 year range, noting that brushing, flossing/interdental cleaning and regular check-ups significantly extend lifespan.

Crowns on Molars vs Front Teeth

Molars work harder than front teeth, so they usually wear faster.

Molar crowns: typically 10-15 years
Front-tooth crowns: often 10-20 years

If you grind or clench (bruxism), a crown may wear or crack sooner. A night guard can greatly improve longevity.

What Affects How Long a Crown Lasts?

Material
Metal and zirconia are extremely durable; modern ceramics provide excellent aesthetics but may chip under heavy force.
Tooth position
Back teeth face greater chewing forces than front teeth.
Quality of preparation and fit
A smooth, well-sealed margin helps keep bacteria out.
Your bite and jaw joints
High or uneven forces put extra stress on a crown.
Oral hygiene and diet
The tooth under the crown can still decay, especially if plaque builds around the edges.
Lifestyle habits
Nail biting, chewing ice or using teeth as tools increases the risk of fractures.

How Long Different Types of Crowns Last

Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM): ~10-15 years; strong, but a dark metal line can appear over time.
All-ceramic / all-porcelain: 10-15+ years; excellent aesthetics, suitable for front and many back teeth.
Zirconia: often 15+ years; extremely strong for molars.
Metal (gold alloys): can last decades; very durable but not tooth-coloured.
Temporary crowns: only designed for weeks to a couple of months.

Are “Caps” and “Crowns” Different?

No. They refer to the same treatment. “Cap” is simply a more informal term.

How to Help Your Crown Last Longer

Brush twice daily and clean between teeth, especially around the gum line.
Keep sugary foods/drinks to mealtimes to reduce decay risk.
Avoid biting hard objects or using your teeth to open things.
Treat clenching or grinding with a night guard.
Attend routine check-ups so we can spot early issues.

Signs a Crown May Need Attention

Contact your dentist if you notice:

New sensitivity to hot, cold or biting
A loose feeling
Chips or fractures
Dark lines or decay at the edge of the crown
Persistent bad taste or odour around one tooth

Early detection often means simpler treatment.

FAQs

Can a crown last a lifetime?

Yes, occasionally – especially metal crowns – but expect 10-15 years as a practical average.

Is a crown failing early a concern?

We assess the cause: decay, grinding, bite changes or trauma may contribute.

Do I still need check-ups if I have crowns?

Definitely. Gums and tooth roots still need monitoring.

When should I replace a crown that feels fine?

Only when there is clear evidence of leakage, decay or structural weakness.

Considering a Crown?

The lifespan of a crown depends on both skilled treatment and good day-to-day care. If you’re deciding whether you need a crown, concerned about an existing one, or exploring cosmetic or implant options, our Basingstoke team can assess your teeth, bite and long-term oral health to give tailored guidance and, if suitable, mould and cement the perfect crown for your bite.

Get in touch if you're thinking about restoring or adding a crown.

📞 Phone: +441256354227
🌐 Email: [email protected]
💬 WhatsApp: https://wa.me/+447514534410