Are Dental Crowns and Bridges Long Lasting?
If you have damaged, weak, or missing teeth, your dentist may suggest a crown or a bridge to restore your smile. Naturally, the first question most patients ask is whether these restorations are long-lasting. After all, any dental treatment is an investment in comfort, appearance, and oral health.
Whether you need to strengthen a fractured tooth or replace one that is missing, choosing crown and bridge treatment can be a reliable solution, especially when performed with modern techniques and high-quality materials. At Dr Roshan Dental Clinic, patients often want clarity about the lifespan of crown and bridge treatment in Mulund East, how durable they are, and what they can expect after the treatment.
This detailed blog explains everything you need to know about how long crowns and bridges last, the factors that affect their longevity, and how you can make them last even longer.
What Exactly Are Dental Crowns and Bridges
Before talking about longevity, it helps to understand what crowns and bridges actually are.
Dental Crowns
A crown works like a protective cap that covers a weakened or damaged tooth. It restores shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns are commonly recommended for:
• Teeth that are cracked or fractured
• Teeth weakened after root canal treatment
• Severe decay that cannot be restored with a filling
• Improving the appearance of discoloured or misshapen teeth
• Strengthening worn-down teeth
Dental Bridges
A bridge is used when a tooth is completely missing. It replaces the lost tooth by anchoring an artificial tooth to the neighbouring teeth. Bridges help maintain proper chewing, prevent teeth from shifting, and restore appearance.
Patients visiting Dr Roshan Dental Clinic often choose bridges when they want a fixed replacement without going for implants.
Are Crowns and Bridges Long Lasting?
The short answer is yes. High-quality crowns and bridges can last many years, often between ten and fifteen years or more. Some even last over twenty years with good care.
Choosing expert crown and bridge treatment in Mulund East at Dr Roshan’s Dental Clinic ensures proper fitting, strong materials, and precise bonding, all of which contribute to longer life.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Typically Last?
Crowns are known for their durability. Their lifespan depends on several factors, but in most cases, a well-maintained crown lasts:
• On average, ten to fifteen years
• Sometimes up to twenty-five years
• Even longer if the supporting tooth remains healthy
Different materials also have various levels of durability.
Types of Crown Materials and Their Lifespan
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns
Often lasts between ten and fifteen years. They are strong, natural-looking, and suitable for back teeth that need more strength.
All ceramic or all porcelain crowns
Great for front teeth because they give the best aesthetic results. They can last ten to fifteen years or more with proper care.
Zirconia crowns
Extremely strong and known for lasting fifteen to twenty years or more. They are a popular choice for both front and back teeth due to their strength and appearance.
Metal crowns
Rarely used for front teeth, but they are very durable, sometimes lasting decades.
A skilled dentist will help you choose the right material based on location, biting force, and appearance needs. At Dr Roshan Dental Clinic, many patients prefer zirconia or porcelain crowns for their combination of strength and aesthetics.
How Long Do Dental Bridges Usually Last?
Dental bridges also last for many years. With excellent care, a bridge typically lasts:
• Ten to fifteen years on average
• In some cases, twenty years or more
The lifespan of a bridge depends not only on the material but also on the health of the supporting teeth. A bridge relies on neighbouring teeth for stability. If those teeth remain strong, the bridge will stay intact longer.
Factors That Affect How Long Crowns and Bridges Last
Even though crowns and bridges are durable, several factors influence their longevity. Understanding these helps you make better decisions and take proper care of your treatment.
1. Oral Hygiene
Poor cleaning habits allow plaque to build up around the restoration. This can lead to decay in the supporting tooth, which may weaken the crown or the teeth holding a bridge. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleaning help prevent this.
2. Material Used
Stronger materials, such as zirconia or porcelain fused to metal, tend to last longer. Your dentist will recommend the most suitable option based on your bite and cosmetic needs.
3. Bite Alignment
If your bite is uneven or if you grind your teeth, it may put excessive pressure on the restoration. Over time, this can reduce the lifespan of crowns and bridges.
4. Skill and Precision of the Dentist
A well-fitting crown or bridge makes a huge difference in longevity. Choosing trusted crown and bridge treatment in Mulund East at Dr Roshan’s Dental Clinic ensures accurate shaping, precise impressions, and proper cementation.
5. Habits that Affect Dental Restorations
Certain habits can damage crowns and bridges faster. These include:
• Chewing ice or very hard foods
• Using teeth to open packets or bottles
• Nail biting
• Nighttime grinding or clenching
Using a night guard, avoiding hard objects, and being mindful of biting habits can protect your restoration.
How to Make Your Crowns and Bridges Last Even Longer?
With proper care, crowns and bridges can last well beyond their expected lifespan. Here are some simple ways to extend their durability.
Maintain excellent oral hygiene:
Brush twice daily, floss regularly, and keep the area around the crown or bridge clean to prevent decay.
Visit your dentist regularly:
Routine check-ups help identify any early issues, such as gum problems or small cracks.
Avoid very hard or sticky foods:
These can loosen or damage the restoration.
Use a night guard if you grind your teeth:
Grinding puts enormous pressure on crowns and bridges. A night guard protects them while you sleep.
Do not use your teeth as tools:
Opening bottle caps or tearing packets with your teeth can cause damage.
Following these steps ensures your investment remains strong and functional for years.
Signs Your Crown or Bridge Needs Attention:
Even though they are long-lasting, you should watch for signs that your restoration needs to be checked. This includes:
• Sensitivity near the treated tooth
• Pain while chewing
• A cracked or chipped crown
• A loose bridge
• Swelling or gum irritation around the restoration
Immediate attention prevents further complications and saves the restoration from early failure.
A Confident Smile That Lasts
Crowns and bridges are among the most dependable ways to restore damaged or missing teeth. When placed correctly and maintained well, they offer not just strength and comfort but also long-lasting confidence. If you are considering crown and bridge treatment in Mulund East, choosing an experienced clinic like Dr Roshan’s Dental Clinic and taking good care of your restoration will ensure you enjoy the benefits for many years.