How Long Do Same-Day Crowns Last?

A dental assistant showing a patient a same-day crown on a screen

Dental crowns have come a long way in recent years.

Traditionally, getting a new crown took multiple appointments over the course of 2+ weeks and involved nuances like enduring messy impressions and wearing a temporary crown.

But CEREC technology changed all of that!

Now, you get a brand new, permanent crown in just ONE appointment.

Best of all:

The cost of a same-day crown is comparable to a traditional crown.

Now, you’re probably wondering, what’s the catch? Maybe they don’t last as long?

Let’s find out!

How long does a CEREC crown last?

You’ll be surprised to hear:

The life expectancy of a same-day crown is the same as a traditional crown.

CEREC crowns last 10 to 15 years on average.

But it’s not uncommon for these crowns to last decades longer!

CEREC crowns are made from a single block of ceramic, which makes them extremely durable and helps for a superior fit.

However:

How long your CEREC crown lasts will ultimately depend on you.

If you take excellent care of your CEREC crown, it may last 20 to 30+ years.

On the contrary, if you don’t, it may last less than 5 years.

So, to save money and avoid replacing your crown frequently, keep reading!

9 tips to make your CEREC crown last longer

CEREC crowns not only look and feel like natural teeth, but they’re also similar in regards to durability. Therefore, the following tips can be said for taking care of your natural teeth too.

Tip 1. Wear a nightguard or orthotic

If you grind or clench your teeth, you must wear an appliance that prevents chips, cracks, excessive wear, etc.

Tip 2. Wear a mouthguard

If you play sports, protect your crown with a sports mouthguard.

Tip 3. Take care of your teeth at home

That includes:

  • Brushing your teeth at least twice per day
  • Using fluoride toothpaste
  • Using a soft-bristled toothbrush
  • Flossing your teeth at least once per day

Tip 4. Avoid chewing on hard items

Don’t chew on ice, pencils, hard candies, nails, etc. These habits increase your risk of damaging your crown.

Tip 5. Limit stain-causing foods and drinks

CEREC crowns are stain resistant, not stain proof, meaning they can still stain over time.

Unfortunately, dental restorations cannot be whitened, and the only way to fix a stained crown is to replace it.

Common stain-causing foods and drinks are coffee, tea, wine, deeply colored sauces, and berries.

Tip 6. Limit sugar

Even though a crown isn’t susceptible to tooth decay, the tooth underneath is.

If that tooth gets a cavity, you may need a new crown.

Tip 7. Don’t use your teeth as a tool

Avoid opening packages or ripping off a tag with your teeth.

Scissors and bottle openers are significantly cheaper than a crown!

Tip 8. Visit your dentist regularly

Routine dental exams and cleanings are vital to making your crown last longer.

During these visits, your dentist will check:

  • Your crown, making sure there are no flaws like cracks and that it’s still secured
  • Your gums, making sure there are no signs of gum disease and that the crown still looks natural along the gumline
  • Your tooth or implant underneath, making sure it’s free of decay and structurally sound

Tip 9. Report problems right away

Call your dentist if you ever notice your crown doesn’t fit, look, or feel right.

This way, they can help you prevent a problem from worsening and costing you more time or money.

Looking for a CEREC dentist in Tacoma, WA?

Contact our experienced restorative dentist, Dr. Michael Giesy!

Not only can he give you a brand new crown in one appointment, but he can also keep your smile healthy with routine cleanings, enhance its beauty with cosmetic dentistry, and more!

Our team is dedicated to providing you with a memorable experience through care, comfort, and trust.

Come experience modern dentistry today!

Request An Appointment

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Giesy Family & Implant Dentistry is located in Tacoma, WA… This text opens a new tab to our Google listing…. We serve families from all over the Pacific Northwest, including Ruston, Spanaway, Gig Harbor, Lakewood, University Place, Fircrest, Olympia, Puyallup, Federal Way, Fife, and Port Orchard.