Dental crowns are commonly used to protect teeth that show extensive decay or large cavities or are broken, chipped, badly stained, or crooked. Dentists also use them to cap teeth after root canal treatment to ensure structural integrity. A dental crown also comes in handy when a large, old filling falls out and the tooth needs additional protection to prevent cracking.
Crowns mimic your natural teeth in terms of function and appearance and can last years. However, the following dental crown problems are common, and you should know what to do if one or more of them crop up.
Top Dental Crown Problems and How to Fix Them
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Tooth Decay
While an implanted dental crown itself doesn’t decay, the tooth under it can. Poor oral hygiene can lead to the buildup of bacteria and cavity formation over time. Experiencing crown tooth pain while brushing or biting on something is often a warning sign. Ignoring tooth decay can cause cavities to grow and trap more food particles and debris between the crown and tooth.
Solution – The best way to treat tooth decay under a dental crown is by preventing it. Brush and floss regularly and thoroughly after the crown is implanted so there is no scope for infection. You can also use interdental or electric toothbrushes to reach difficult nooks and crannies. In case the decay has already set in, visit your dentist for a checkup. They can assess the extent of decay and decide whether to remove the same or perform a root canal procedure. They will then use a new dental crown to protect the tooth.
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Sensitivity
One of the common dental crown problems is tooth sensitivity after the implant. Consuming too hot or cold items can spark a tingling sensation in the concerned area. However, this issue should subside in a couple of weeks. If it doesn’t, it might be because your dentin (chief supporting structure) got exposed after trimming the tooth enamel during the implant. This means your crown is not covering the tooth completely.
Solution—Check in with your dentist at the clinic so they can cover up any part of the treated tooth that is still exposed. Usually, they use a special solution that is resistant to changes in temperature. You might also be advised to use toothpaste specifically meant for sensitive teeth.
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Loose Crown
The crown on a tooth is loose but still attached? Adults who undergo crown implantation often face this problem after an injury or if they have the habit of eating sticky food items. Even hard foods that require you to grind or clench your teeth can cause loosening of the crown sometimes. You must tend to it immediately as food particles can get in through the gap between the tooth and the crown, causing bacterial infection.
Solution—Visit your dentist so they can refit the loose crown on the tooth in question. If the crown has come off entirely or is severely damaged, they might suggest a new one.
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Improper Crown Placement
Poor placement is among the common dental crown problems wherein the crown is fitted improperly over the treated tooth. This means your bite will be uncomfortable or uneven. Address the issue as soon as possible since bacteria might attack the tooth below the crown by getting in through the gap between the two.
Solution—Your dentist can adjust the fit and alignment of the crown to ensure that your bite is natural and that you are not uncomfortable while chewing or talking.
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Nerve Problems
Every tooth has a centrally located mass of connective tissues or pulp right below the dentin. It houses all the nerves, which can get affected while you are getting fitted with a crown. If you experience throbbing tooth pain after crown implant, immediately or even after weeks, nerve damage might be the reason.
Solution – Contact your dentist so they can suggest the most suitable line of treatment and replace the crown if necessary.
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Fractured or Cracked Crown
Damaged crowns are often the result of trauma. These days, most dental crowns are made of porcelain, which is strong but not as strong as your natural teeth. Left untreated, chips or cracks in the crown can cause bacterial infiltration and decay of the underlying tooth.
Solution—If the crack or chip is minor, the dentist will usually repair it with composite resin. If the crack is large, you will probably need to get the crown replaced.
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Grey Gums
Crowns made of metals like nickel, chromium, or gold often cause the surrounding gum area to become grayish. This essentially means that the metal is showing through the gum line but is not a real health threat. However, it can be aesthetically unappealing.
Solution—The only way to eliminate gray gums is to replace the metal dental crown with a porcelain alternative.
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Allergic Reaction
Though it’s quite rare, throbbing tooth pain after crown implantation might happen due to an allergic reaction if the crown is made of metal. Your gum tissue around the crown might swell or become painful.
Solution – Your dentist will replace the metal dental crown with one made of porcelain as it is more biocompatible.
Recognizing the various dental crown problems is crucial for monitoring your oral health after an implant. If your bite feels strange, notice poor breath, or you see inflammation around the crown, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist. Be watchful for dislodged crowns or chips and cracks. Ignoring these issues can lead to significant discomfort and expenses, so it’s important to address them promptly.
Want to know more about our dental crown services and other treatments? Visit us at RiverRock Dental today. You can schedule an appointment by calling us at 952.445.5556 or submitting a simple form online. A healthy and beautiful smile is your right and our promise.
Our address: 403 1st Avenue East Shakopee, MN 55379
Phone: 952.445.5556
