How Long Do Zirconia Crowns Last?

A dental crown is a restoration to cover a damaged tooth. It will help restore the normal function, shape, and size of the tooth and provide protection for the tooth. Dental crowns will not last forever, but you can extend the life of a dental crown if you exercise proper precautions.

Why Would You Need a Dental Crown?

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), if you have received a large filling and not enough tooth remains to support it, a dental crown will both help strengthen and protect the tooth.

Your dentist may also recommend a crown to:

  • Protect and support a weak tooth from breaking.
  • Restore a chipped, cracked, or broken tooth.
  • Attach and support a dental bridge, or to complete a dental implant.
  • Protect and support a fragile tooth after a root canal.

The Different Types of Materials used for Dental Crowns

Dental crowns can be fabricated from a variety of materials, some of which will last longer. Various kinds of materials that can be used in crowns are:

  • porcelain
  • ceramic
  • zirconia
  • metal
  • composite resin
  • a combination of materials

When selecting the best material for your crown, your dentist will consider contributing factors such as:

  • How much of the tooth will be visible during your smile.
  • The location of the tooth.
  • The health and position of your gum tissue.
  • The functionality of the tooth, how much pressure with both biting and chewing.
  • How much of the natural tooth physically remains.
  • The color and shade of the surrounding teeth.

The Benefits of a Zirconia Crown

Zirconia is a crystalized mineral that combines incredible strength with aesthetically, natural tooth-like translucence appeal. Zirconia crowns are becoming more popular and are continually being developed to improve their performance.

Some of the benefits of zirconium crowns are:

  • They are the most durable option available.
  • They can look natural and will match the color of your teeth.
  • They can be fabricated in the dental office and need less preparation than other materials, which means you can be fitted for your zirconia crown quicker.
  • Zirconia is biocompatible, therefore not causing any adverse reactions in your body.
  • Zirconia can also be layered with porcelain for an even more natural appearance.
  • Zirconia crowns can be cemented or bonded to your tooth, giving more options.

What is the Life Expectancy of a Zirconia Crown?

Actually, categorized as a type of ceramic crown, zirconia crowns are made from zirconium dioxide, an extraordinarily strong type of crystalized mineral. The durability of zirconia crowns makes them extremely resistant to fracture. Recent studies have found that zirconia crowns were the least likely to chip or crack after being subjected to extreme bite forces. With proper oral hygiene and quality care, a zirconia crown can last several decades, or even longer. Depending on the material used, the average lifespan of a traditional dental crown is around 10 to 15 years. However, with good dental hygiene habits, and regular dental exams, zirconia crowns can easily surpass the normal expectancy. Your dentist will discuss with you about the benefits of the varied materials available to determine the best type of crown for your needs.

Can Zirconia Crowns Crack?