How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

Determining how long crowns last is hard to determine. Factors of longevity include:
• Material (full gold vs. porcelain fused to metal core, porcelain fused to non metal core and all-porcelain)
• Location (back tooth, front tooth)
• How much tooth remained when prepared for a crown (was there much there? Was it a heroic effort on the dentist to even try to save the tooth?)
• Bite forces (grinder and clencher, no habits)
• Hygiene practices (some people REFUSE to brush their teeth!).
Most insurance companies will pay every 5 years on a crown, meaning they aren't surprised if the crown should be redone. Most crowns average more along the lines of 10-15 years, and many people have crowns in their mouths for more than 25-30 years. Mileage DOES vary.
2 years is a little short. Often, replacement at this point can be done at a reduced fee, similar to getting tires replaced before the 50,000 mile warrantee is used up. If 25,000 miles were driven, tire companies often will only charge half of their fee.

Crowns don't have a set amount of time that they should last because there are a variety of factors that can affect their longevity. Most importantly, how well you take care of them (avoiding bad habits and making sure to go to your routine dental cleanings), what type of material was used, the experience of the provider, etc. Insurance companies typically will only replace a crown that is 5-8 years old, but no sooner than that. Crowns really should last much longer than that if done correctly and cared for well. Hope this helps!

Thank you for your question. There many factors that determine how long crowns last. First, the question should be asked : why were the crowns "installed" in the first place. That determines etiology of the problem.  Usually they are used when very large size fillings are braking apart, or a tooth is broken or worn down. If patient is a grinder, crowns will not last as long as in normal situation. In general, they should last many years assuming patient takes care of them .In our office we offer 5 year guarantee as long as patient keeps hygiene maintenance prescribed.