Dental crowns are crafted from strong porcelain that should last 10 to 15 years, or more, when properly cared for. However, just because these crowns are strong, it does not make them invincible. A dental crown can require replacement before you reach that 10-to-15-year mark due to decay around the root of the tooth or underneath the crown. Brushing and flossing regularly is always advised for the health and longevity of both restored teeth and natural teeth.

When you have a tooth weakened by decay or have undergone a highly invasive procedure like a root canal, that tooth will need reinforcement and protection in its now weakened state. For patients in the Irvine, California area who visit Dr. Tom Alexander and the team at Sterling Plaza Dentistry, a dental crown will be used to provide this protection.

What Are Signs a Crown May Need to Be Replaced?

If you notice pain and/or swelling around the gum tissue where your crowned tooth is located, call your dental office for an appointment as soon as possible. Your local dental team will be able to perform a skilled evaluation of the crown to see if it is damaged or cracked. When a crown cracks, bacteria can enter through that crack and begin to damage the tooth portion under the crown.

Pain or discomfort may be more evident when you eat or bite down due to the pressure exerted on the tooth. You could also feel this discomfort when you brush and floss.

Consuming hot and cold foods or drinks could also result in pain due to the sensitivity of the underlying tooth and its nerve. Sensitivity to temperatures could indicate that the underlying tooth or pulp  is decaying or that the crown may have a crack.

In some situations, a root canal may need to be performed to remove your tooth’s decaying inner pulp and then repair the existing crown or have a replacement crown made. Calling for early intervention could help you avoid needing a replacement crown.

Loose Crowns

When your dental crown is placed, a special bonding agent or dental cement is used to seal the crown over the tooth structure. When this material breaks down or weakens, your crown can come loose. If it continues to loosen without intervention, it will eventually dislodge and come off the tooth.

Once a crown has started to come loose, it means the seal initially created to protect the tooth is broken, allowing bacteria and food particles to leak under the crown which may cause decay or infection. This is why it is important  for you to call your dentist right away once you realize your dental crown is loose.

If the crown and the underlying tooth are in good condition, it can be as simple as cementing it back into place once your tooth has been cleaned of any lingering food particles or bacteria.  If decay has taken hold, then the seal and fit of the crown is compromised and may need to be replaced.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Dental crowns are an incredibly strong and reliable option for tooth restoration. When a tooth is no longer strong enough to support itself, a dental crown will provide the protection and reinforcement needed for optimum chewing function and aesthetics.

If you have questions about the need to replace your dental crown and you are in the Irvine, California, area, call the office of Dr. Tom Alexander and the team at Sterling Plaza Dentistry to have the crown examined.

You can schedule an appointment by calling (949) 868-2224.

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