Dental crowns are among the most common dental procedures, with many materials being introduced in the past few decades. The newer materials like Zirconia and Lithium Disilicate (ceramic crowns) are known for being robust as well as natural-looking while the older ones such as Porcelain-Fused-To-Metal crowns and Gold crowns are reliable and have stood the test of time.
Maintaining good oral health is essential, especially when it comes to dental restorations like porcelain crowns. Dental care around the gum line is crucial to prevent complications such as gum disease or tooth sensitivity. When a dental crown fails, it can affect not only the crowned tooth but also surrounding teeth and gums, making prompt attention necessary to ensure long-term oral health.
A crowned tooth should function like a natural tooth, but sometimes there are signs of a failed dental crown. If a crown is failing, you may experience pain, tooth sensitivity or even gum issues. Nevertheless, dental crowns, like all things in life, have a certain lifespan and if not taken care of properly, can run into problems over time. Let’s walk through 10 common causes of dental crown failure and what you can do to fix it.
Even though a crown covers your tooth, the tooth underneath isn’t immune to decay. If bacteria sneak under or around the crown, they can cause decay, leading to sensitivity, pain and even infection.
Crowns are tough but they can still crack or chip, especially if you accidentally bite down on something hard or grind your teeth at night.
Read more about dental crown damage and chips over here.
A crown can become loose for several reasons, such as the dental cement wearing out over time or any trauma to the tooth. If your crown feels wobbly, don’t wait—see your dentist.
It is common to have increased sensitivity to certain hot or cold foods and drinks after a dental procedure. This can happen if the tooth underneath is still adjusting. If the sensitivity does not subside after a week or so, it is good to consult your dentist.
Your gums can recede over time, which might expose the edge of your crown or make the tooth underneath more vulnerable to decay. This is more evident in porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns, where the crown is made of a metal base with a porcelain cover. The black line is the junction where the tooth and crown meet — if this margin occurs near the gum line, then a dark line shows.
Read more about why there there is black line around your crown, here.
Some crowns are made with metal and while rare, some may have allergic reactions to these materials, particularly nickel. If you notice redness, irritation, or discomfort around your crown, it could be due to a metal allergy.
Click here to read more about zirconia crowns.
Dental crowns can wear down over time, just like our natural teeth. Chewing, grinding and general use can take their toll, especially on crowns that are several years old.
Each person’s bite is unique and while dentists aim to create a crown with a perfect biting surface, it’s not uncommon for the crown to need some adjustment once it’s cemented in place. An uneven bite can lead to discomfort, pain or sensitivity when biting or chewing.
Dental crowns can be customised in a variety of shades to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. This is especially important for front teeth, as they show when you speak or smile. However, if the colour doesn’t match well, the crown can stand out and look out of place.
If a crown isn’t placed correctly, it can allow bacteria to enter, leading to potential tooth decay or discomfort. Proper care during crown installation is key to avoiding problems.
If you’re experiencing any of these issues with your crown, the best course of action is to see your dentist as soon as possible. They’ll assess the situation and recommend the best solution, whether it’s a simple adjustment, a repair or a full replacement of the crown.
Dental crowns are a reliable way to protect and restore your teeth but they need care just like your natural teeth. By staying vigilant and addressing any issues early on, you can ensure that your crown lasts as long as possible, keeping your smile healthy and strong.
If you’re concerned about your crown or just want to make sure everything is in good shape, don’t hesitate to schedule a check-up with your dentist. A little maintenance goes a long way in preventing bigger problems down the road! Simply drop us a message here.