A dental crown is a type of restorative dentistry that protects a weak tooth. The crown’s strong shell protects the damaged area and assists in preventing further damage.
Crowns are an excellent solution for extending the life of teeth that have broken, worn, or developed a cavity. When handled appropriately, these restorations have the ability to last for many years.
However, you may need to have your dental crown replaced at some point. Some indications that the time has come may be obvious. At the same time, others may not.
Routine dental checkups will ensure that your crown and tooth beneath remain healthy and allow the dentist to detect conditions that you might not be knowing.
Here are seven signs that your dental crown needs replacement.
1. You Experience Pain or Swelling
A dental crown that causes swelling or pain near the tooth means it’s time to have it replaced. A crown that is improperly placed can cause gum swelling and constant toothache. The main aim is to bind and support your tooth and provide it with a new biting surface.
The crown may sit too high despite proper dental care, meaning it’s too tall on your tooth. Pressure when eating or brushing your teeth may lead to pain or swelling around a crowned tooth.
At times the sensitivity may be due to a cavity or infection. If the dentist did not perform a root canal before placing the crown, the nerves in the tooth are still alive. The crown may put pressure on the nerve, causing an infection.
In most cases, the dentist only does repairs. But if the pain is too much, the dental work may involve a complete replacement.
2. Receding Gum Line
There are higher chances of gum complications when wearing dental crowns. Healthy gums fit around the visible part of the teeth or crown. Gum recession happens when the gums recede or pull away, exposing the roots.
Bacteria can gather between where the gum line and the crown meet. It can lead to gum disease if one fails to practice proper oral hygiene.
Such an infection can cause a receding gum line if left untreated over time. Eventually, the crown can fail, and the dentist may have no choice but to remove the tooth.
Another cause of receding gum lines is the improper placing of the crown. Even with good oral hygiene, your gums may shift. Visit a dentist if you notice increased sensitivity around the gums.
Receding gum line is a common problem, and treatment is possible. The dentist will replace the crown if it is unsealed from the tooth. Replacement is necessary because the crown no longer offers protection.
3. Your Bite Feels Off
Your bite should be normal once the crown is placed and fitted. A dental crown covers and protects a damaged tooth. But at times, it may not safeguard the tooth from sensitivity.
In reality, a crowned tooth is prone to dental problems like a regular tooth. You may experience a toothache. Or you may have sensitivity, pressure, or discomfort.
Tooth decay under the crown is the most common reason why your bite feels off. The tooth fitted with a crown is still alive. A new cavity or tooth decay may form near the border of the crown and teeth.
If your feel something is off when chewing food or brushing your teeth, you need to see a dentist. They will do a root canal and a crown replacement.
4. Your Dental Crown Is Old
With proper care, dental crowns can last up to 15 years before noticing any damage. Keep a close eye on the quality of the crown if it’s more than a decade old.
Different materials make crowns. Metal is the most common because it lasts for a longer time. Other materials are gold and alloy combinations like nickel, chromium, and palladium.
Regardless of the material used, it will chip over time. When this happens, the seal of the crown should be kept intact. In most instances, a dental procedure is done to replace the crown before it becomes a problem.
5. Wear and Tear
Dental crowns strengthen the teeth, but they are also susceptible to damage. Many reasons could lead to wear and tear on your crown.
The most common is bad dental habits. They can cause premature damage to crowns such as fractures, cracks, or chips. Some habits that may cause wear and tear are chewing on ice, grinding teeth, and nail-biting.
Another reason is poor oral hygiene. Ceramic metals are used to make dental crowns.
They are prone to decay and need regular brushing and flossing. If your crown is worn out, visit a dentist. They will use suitable dental equipment to do a replacement.
6. Your Crown Is Damaged
Crown damage can occur due to various reasons. Facial injury from contact falls, or a car accident can cause damage. Other habits such as chewing on metal or plastic and eating hard food can also cause damage.
Also, decay can damage the enamel underneath the crown. The roots don’t have an enamel coating. This leaves them prone to decay and sensitivity. It may result in dislodging of the crown.
The most common symptom of a damaged crown is seeing a hole when brushing or flossing your teeth. In such a case, the only option is to replace it.
7. Your Crown Is No Longer Aesthetically Appealing
Over time your crown may look older and not natural compared to modern restorations. Also, over the years, your teeth may have changed color, making the crown stick out.
Metal crowns particularly can have a long-lasting effect on your smile. They have become outdated because they can discolor your tooth.
They may also affect your ability to get medical treatment such as MRIs. Dental crown replacement is necessary to match your teeth.
Choose the Best Dentist to Replace Your Dental Crown
You’re now aware of the seven signs your dental crown needs to be replaced. Identify the right dentist to do the procedure. A professional will help you resolve the problem quickly.
Here at Newbury Dental Group, we are ready to provide you with exceptional care. Our dentists are committed to helping you look, feel, and smile your best. We offer a wide variety of dental services and procedures.
Contact us today to know more about our services.