When Is It Time to Replace Your Dental Crown?

How Long Should a Dental Crown Last?

Most dental crowns last between 10 and 15 years, but many can last even longer with good care. The exact lifespan depends on several factors, including:

• Crown material: Porcelain, zirconia, metal, or ceramic crowns each wear differently. Zirconia and metal tend to last longer, while porcelain and ceramic offer more natural aesthetics.
• Daily habits: Grinding, clenching, or chewing hard foods like ice or nuts can shorten your crown’s life.
• Oral hygiene: Brushing and flossing daily helps prevent decay at the crown’s margins.
• Regular checkups: Routine exams allow your dentist to spot early signs of damage or loosening before you feel discomfort.

Even if your crown looks fine, small issues can develop underneath. Your dentist can detect decay, gaps, or hidden cracks that you may not see or feel at home. That’s one reason we recommend visiting Mint Dental every six months for a checkup and cleaning.

Common Signs It’s Time to Replace a Dental Crown

Crown problems usually develop slowly, so it helps to know what to look for. Here are the most common signs that it’s time to schedule a crown evaluation.

1. Persistent Pain or Sensitivity

If your crowned tooth becomes sensitive to hot or cold, or you feel pressure when biting, it may mean the crown no longer seals properly. This can allow bacteria to enter and irritate the nerve beneath the tooth. A replacement crown restores the protective barrier and prevents infection.

2. Visible Damage

Cracks, chips, or worn edges can weaken the crown’s structure. Even if the damage looks small, it can grow quickly under pressure from chewing. Replacing a damaged crown early helps protect the natural tooth underneath.

3. A Loose or Wobbly Crown

If your crown moves or feels unstable, it’s important to see a dentist right away. A loose crown can expose your tooth to decay or fall off entirely, which can be painful and inconvenient.

4. Gum Recession Around the Crown

When gums recede, the crown’s edge or margin may become visible. This not only affects the appearance of your smile but can also expose the tooth root to decay and sensitivity.

5. Discoloration or Dark Lines

A dark line around the gumline can indicate that an older crown’s metal base is showing through or that the bonding material has discolored. Replacing it with a modern all-ceramic or zirconia crown can instantly refresh your smile.

6. Changes in Your Bite

If your bite feels uneven or your teeth no longer fit together comfortably, your crown might have shifted or worn down. An uneven bite can cause jaw discomfort, headaches, or even TMJ issues if left untreated.

Crown Replacement in Kansas City: What to Expect

At Mint Dental, replacing a dental crown is a comfortable and efficient process. Our office uses advanced digital scanning technology and durable zirconia and ceramic materials for precision, comfort, and natural aesthetics. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Comprehensive Exam
   We begin with a full evaluation, including digital X-rays, to assess the condition of the crown and the tooth beneath.
2. Gentle Removal of the Old Crown
   The existing crown is carefully removed without harming the underlying tooth structure.
3. Tooth Preparation and Cleaning
   We clean and reshape the tooth to create a perfect foundation for the new crown. Any decay or weak spots are addressed right away.
4. Precision Impression or Scan
   Using either traditional impressions or advanced digital scanning, we capture the exact shape needed for your replacement crown.
5. Temporary Crown (if needed)
   While your new crown is being made, we’ll place a temporary one to protect your tooth and maintain your bite.
6. Final Placement and Adjustment
   When your permanent crown is ready, it’s securely bonded in place. We’ll check your bite and comfort to ensure a natural feel and long-term stability.

Our team focuses on precision, aesthetics, and comfort. With durable, tooth-colored materials that blend seamlessly with your natural smile, you’ll feel confident again.

What Happens If You Wait Too Long?

Ignoring a worn or damaged crown can lead to much bigger dental problems. When a crown no longer fits properly, bacteria can slip underneath and cause decay or infection in the tooth it’s meant to protect. Over time, this can result in:

• Root canal infections
• Fractured teeth
• Gum disease
• Pain and swelling
• Tooth loss requiring implants or bridges

Replacing your crown early is far simpler and more comfortable than repairing a larger issue later. Think of it as maintaining your car before the engine fails, small attention now prevents major repairs later.

How to Extend the Life of Your Dental Crown

Once your new crown is in place, there are several ways to make it last for many years:

• Brush and floss daily. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle motions to clean around the crown.
• Visit your dentist regularly. Routine checkups allow us to detect minor wear before it becomes a problem.
• Avoid chewing on hard foods or objects. Ice, pens, and hard candies are common culprits.
• Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth. Grinding can quickly damage both natural teeth and crowns.
• Watch for changes in fit or comfort. If your bite feels off or you notice pain, call your dentist right away.

With proper care, a well-made dental crown can easily serve you for more than a decade — sometimes even two.

Why Choose Mint Dental for Crown Replacement in Kansas City

Your dental experience should be comfortable, efficient, and stress-free. The team at Mint Dental has extensive experience in restorative and cosmetic dentistry, giving patients strong, natural-looking results that last.

Patients throughout Lenexa, Shawnee Mission, Lee’s Summit, and Independence trust us for our advanced technology and compassionate care. Whether your crown is showing signs of wear or you’re looking to improve its appearance, we’ll guide you through the process with care and attention to detail.

We also coordinate with your insurance provider and offer flexible payment options through our Gold Membership Plan, making your care convenient and accessible.



When to Call Mint Dental

If your crown feels loose, uncomfortable, or hasn’t been checked in years, it’s a good time to schedule an evaluation. Even if your crown still feels fine, preventive care is the best way to avoid future problems.

Learn more about our Dental Crowns or schedule your appointment online today. Our friendly team will make sure your smile stays healthy and confident for years to come.