Dental crowns play an important role in restoring broken teeth, but they can sometimes wear down. Prolonged usage, decay, or shifting of teeth over time can weaken dental crowns.
Understanding the signs that indicate that the crown needs to be replace is important in sustaining good oral health. Neglecting these signs can culminate in other severe problems, like tooth decay or gum disease.
It is also important for individuals to know when he or she needs a dental crown replacement to avoid future discomfort. This article discusses the signs that indicate that it’s time to replace your dental crown.
What are Dental Crowns?
Before discussing the signs of wear and tear, it’s essential to understand what dental crowns are. A dental crown is a cap place over a damage tooth, helping to restore its shape, size, and strength and enhance its appearance.
Crowns can be made from different materials, such as porcelain, metal, or both. Each type of material has a different lifespan, with metal crowns typically lasting longer than those made of porcelain.
When Should You Replace Your Dental Crown?
Dental crowns can last for an average of 5 to 15 years. The durability of the crowns is determine by the kind of material use and the amount of stress they are subjected to. While crowns are design to be long-lasting, they will eventually need to be replaced.
Here are the key indicators that your dental crown may need to be replaced:
1. Visible Wear and Tear
The most obvious reason that warns you of the replacement of crowns is the visible wear and tear. Over time, the pressure from chewing and grinding weakens the crown both from heat (thermal) and physical force (mechanical).
Metal crowns might appear worn, and porcelain crowns could chip or crack. If you notice any of these signs, it’s a clear indication that you should visit your dentist for a replacement.
2. Gum Recession
When gums recede, the margin between teeth and crowns becomes exposed, making them vulnerable to decay and other damage. This gap creates an ideal space for bacteria to gather and grow, leading to cavities.
If you notice increased sensitivity or changes around the gum line of your crowned tooth, it may be time for a dental crown replacement.
3. Discoloration
Chronic discoloration or darkening on the outer edges or base of the crown commonly signals that the crown’s seal is breach. But crowns themselves do not stain; the tooth beneath it or the cement place when the crown is put can become discolored over time.
Any colored change that is out of the ordinary should be a sign for a dental visit to check whether a crown replacement is necessary.
4. Discomfort or Sensitivity
Dental Crowns are designed to fit comfortably in your mouth, but over time, they may become loose, causing discomfort or sensitivity. This can be especially noticeable when biting or eating hot or cold foods.
A crown that has worn out or no longer fits properly may require replacement to alleviate these issues. If you experience sensitivity or discomfort around your crown, it’s important to consult your dentist for a tooth crown replacement.
5. Loose or Detached Crown
If your crown is loose or has come off completely, then it means that you need a new one as soon as possible.
A loose or detached crown can affect its functionality and also risk damaging the underlying tooth. If you detect a loose crown, it becomes essential to consult a professional as soon as possible to avoid exacerbation.
6. Frequent Bad Breath
Dental crowns that have erode or are ill-fit hold bacteria that can cause bad breath or an awful taste in the mouth.
If you have such symptoms frequently, it would be wise to consult your dentist to have a new dental crown.
7. Changes in Your Bite
The position of your teeth describes your bite. If your dental crown becomes misaligned, it can compromise your biting and result in jaw pain or TMJ (temporomandibular joints) problems.
If the teeth’s alignment has changed, it may be a sign that the crown is wearing out or shifting, and tooth crown replacement is the only option.
How Can You Extend the Life of Your Dental Crown?
To extend the life of your dental crown, there are several steps you can follow:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss regularly to minimize plaque buildup.
- Limit your intake of sweets and acidic, carbonated drinks. These can wear down both your crown and natural teeth.
- Schedule regular dental checkups to address any issues early and prevent the need for a crown replacement.
- Avoid biting down with excessive force or chewing on very hard items, as this can damage your crown.
These practices will help you extend the lifespan of the dental crown and maintain the overall health of your teeth.
Conclusion
It is very important to understand what signs indicate that it is time for your dental crown replacement. If you ever notice a change in your bite or feel discomfort while chewing food, it is important to visit your dentist.
One of the most effective ways of making your crown last longer is by observing any signs of damage. Adhering to the necessary adjustments on time can make sure you continue to smile confidently.
Our dentists at RiverRockDental can cater to all your dental treatment needs.
Schedule your appointment today to get your dental crown replaced. As your trusted dentist, we’re here to help you achieve a pain-free smile.
Our address: 403 1st Ave East Shakopee, MN 55379
Phone : (952) 445-5556
