Dental crowns offer a range of benefits and are commonly used to protect and enhance the surface of the teeth. Whether used to protect teeth, prevent decay, or realign your bite, dental crowns play a crucial role in maintaining oral health. They can also greatly improve your cosmetic appearance, which has both internal and external health benefits. Below we cover 4 signs your dental crown is damaged and needs replacement.
4 Signs Your Dental Crown is Damaged and Needs Replacement
However, even though dental crowns are resilient, they aren’t entirely immune to wear and tear. There are instances where they might need replacement after a few years. In this article, we’ll list the top 4 signs your dental crown is damaged and needs replacement with new porcelain dental crowns or alternative dentistry options.
Your Crown Has Visible Damage
A good old-fashioned checkup is a great method to identify potential crown issues. Besides the obvious looks of fractures or structural breakdowns, subtler signs of crown damage might also be present. Some of these signs include:
- Difficulty biting or chewing
- Noticeable cracks on the crown surface
- Pain originating from the crown area
- Sensation of gum recession around the crown or tooth
- Crown becoming loose
- Lingering discomfort or soreness
While some of these signs may be hard to see at first, it’s essential to conduct a visual check to ensure none of them are getting worse. If you do notice that your conditions are not improving, you need get in touch with your East Highland dentists ASAP.
You Know the Lifespan of Your Crown
Dental crowns are designed to stay strong and durable for several years, especially when professionally installed – and coupled with proper daily oral care, of course. The longevity can extend to nearly two decades, though natural wear and tear can influence their condition over time. Maintaining oral health practices can prolong their lifespan.
In certain situations, you might even need to explore alternative restorative dentistry options. Depending on the extent of tooth preservation needed, onlays or inlays could be considered as a replacement for your damaged crowns. These alternatives, similar to crowns, provide protection with less coverage and may involve fewer office visits.
You Are Contributing to Poor Crown Health
Certain habits and insufficient oral hygiene practices can amplify the risk of crown damage, potentially leading to costly repairs. Continuing to ignore these issues can even spell out some serious oral health concerns. Key factors include:
Teeth grinding or bruxism, which can harm crowns and natural teeth
Inadequate daily oral care, emphasizing the importance of regular brushing and flossing
Poor chewing habits, like using teeth to open bottles or chew ice
If a crown breaks, restorative dentistry options from local dentists are available. Many dental insurance plans cover replacements every five to ten years, so it’s a good idea to check in with your local experts before making an appointment.
Your Dentist Offered Crown Replacements
Regardless of the extent of damage, if your crown is compromised in any way, you should get it replaced. Professional dentists can assist in determining the best course of action for your damaged or fractured crown. Crown replacement is a practical solution that offers financial feasibility and adaptability, even for existing crowns in certain conditions.
Scheduled appointments usually help ensure a precise fit. The dentist will create new molds of your mouth, ensuring the replacement crown functions as a protective cap without breaking down. We want your crown to fit impeccably well, leading the way for great oral health habits down the line.
Experience Excellence in Restorative Dentistry
Our commitment to superior patient care and knowledge is unwavering. Understanding how dental crowns function and recognizing the signs of damage can guide you in determining if replacement is necessary. Before you let your crown completely fall apart, you can contact our dental office to make an appointment. Explore your treatment options with us today and start the journey toward improved oral health.