Dental crowns are highly favored in both restorative and cosmetic dentistry, providing excellent solutions for decayed, damaged, or compromised teeth. Despite their durability, crowns can experience wear and tear over time, necessitating replacement. While your dentist will guide you through this process, being aware of the signs of crown deterioration is helpful. Here are four key indicators to watch out for, ensuring that your crown is replaced at the appropriate time.
Obvious Signs of Wear and Tear
As time passes, you may observe signs of wear or damage on your crown, affecting its appearance and detracting from your smile’s beauty. While such wear could be due to the crown’s age, it might also indicate more serious issues like bruxism (teeth grinding) or chronically poor oral hygiene. Your dentist will assess the extent of the damage and determine if replacement is necessary to restore your crown’s functionality and appearance.
Pain or Swelling Around Your Crown
If you experience pain or inflammation around a crowned tooth, it’s essential to contact your dentist promptly. Broken or cracked crowns can expose the underlying tooth, leading to tenderness.
Additionally, if the crown was positioned too high on the tooth, it may cause pain or sensitivity during chewing. Seeking immediate dental attention can help address these issues and ensure your comfort and oral health.
Gum Line Recession
Bacteria tend to accumulate more around a tooth with a crown compared to a natural tooth, potentially increasing the risk of gum disease. Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial in preventing this, emphasizing consistent brushing, flossing, and using an antibacterial mouthwash. If you notice your gums receding around the crown, it may indicate the need for a refitting or replacement to maintain optimal oral health.
The Crown Is Old
If your crown has been in place for at least 10 years, it’s advisable to discuss replacement with your dentist, even if there are no apparent signs of damage. Advanced age can pose potential problems, and although some crowns can last 15 years or more with proper care, it’s prudent to have their integrity monitored by your dentist. Additionally, some insurance plans may cover the cost of crown replacement, so it’s worth inquiring with your provider beforehand to explore your options.
In conclusion, taking proactive steps to monitor and maintain the health of your dental crown is essential for preserving its longevity and ensuring your oral well-being. Regular dental check-ups and open communication with your dentist can help detect any issues early and address them promptly to ensure a healthy and confident smile!
About the Practice
Dr. Joshua Hong serves patients and families in the Goodyear community with a variety of treatments to promote healthy, happy beams. His practice is excited to offer patients a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative services, including dental crowns to repair teeth that have been damaged or decayed. If you have any inquiries regarding dental crowns or suspect that yours may need replacement, feel free to contact Dr. Hong’s office at (623) 925-8822 or visit their website.