For as long as modern dentistry has been around, dental crowns have been a vital restoration tool. These tooth “caps” made of porcelain and other materials completely cover a damaged or decayed tooth, giving it a new lease of life. However, they do have their limits.
So how do you know when it’s time to replace a dental crown? Continue reading to see five signs you should watch out for.
1. The Crown Is Damaged
The most obvious of these signs is damage to the crown itself. While dental crowns are made from durable ceramic, they can chip, crack, or break from time to time, especially if you grind your teeth or eat a lot of crunchy, hard foods.
2. You Have Pain or Swelling
Crowns should fit well and there should be no discomfort to your teeth or the surrounding tissues. If you start to feel pain coming from the tooth, or see swelling in your gums, visit your dentist immediately.
3. Your Crown Is No Longer Aesthetically Pleasing
There doesn’t have to be an emergency to replace your crown. If you become dissatisfied with the way it looks, you could opt to have it replaced. Staining can occur on crowns and if it no longer matches your teeth, you may want to replace it.
4. Your Crown is Over Ten Years Old
Crowns last a while, especially if you’re practicing good dental hygiene. However, it is best to replace your prosthetic every ten years or so to prevent damage from wear and ensure the tooth underneath is still in good shape.
5. Your Gum Line is Receding
Bacteria naturally gathers around and under teeth that have dental crowns on them, making them more likely to be infected. Gum disease is more common in patients with dental crowns, so a receding gumline is a definite sign that your crown should be replaced.
If you’ve been experiencing any of these signs, you should call your dentist and schedule an appointment. It’s far better to have your crown replaced and your teeth cleaned than to try to wait out potential problems. A new dental crown will make your teeth feel better and give you more confidence to smile.
About the Author
Dr. Robert A. Camenzuli is a consummate professional with a gentle demeanor and a can-do attitude. He listens to his patients, providing them with a safe environment to voice their goals. Dr. Camenzuli earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the Louisiana State University School of Dentistry and eventually became a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, a distinction only 6% of dentists in the US and Canada have achieved. To schedule an appointment at Camenzuli Dental Excellence, call (504) 584-4225 or visit the website to learn more.