How to Know If Your Old Crown Needs Replacement

Dental crowns are built to last, but they can be damaged without routine care. Chewing, grinding, and even subtle changes in your bite can slowly wear them down. If you know the warning signs, you can avoid a lot of pain and hassle (not to mention extra costs) before things get out of hand.

What is a Dental Crown, and Why do You Need a New One? 

A crown is a cap that covers a damaged or weakened tooth. It restores the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns can last for years, but eventually they wear out, chip, or just stop doing their job as well as they should.

Here’s why you might need to swap your dental crowns out:

• Decay Under the Crown: Crowns cover teeth, but they don’t make them impenetrable. Bacteria can still get in around the edges if your crown’s old or doesn’t fit right, and start causing decay underneath.
• Wear and Tear: Biting, chewing, grinding – crowns deal with a lot. Over time, you might notice chips, cracks, or just general wear, especially if you don’t take care of your teeth.
• Changes in Your Bite: Teeth move, bites shift, and suddenly the crown that used to fit perfectly is undergoing too much pressure or doesn’t perform at its finest. This can crack the crown or loosen it up.

Signs Your Dental Crown Needs Replacement

Spotting the signs early helps you prevent extensive dental problems. Here’s what to watch for:

1. Pain or Sensitivity Around the Crown  

If the area around your crown suddenly aches or gets sensitive, especially with hot, cold, or sweet foods, don’t ignore it. That usually means the crown’s cracked or there’s decay underneath.

2. Visible Cracks or Damage  

If you notice chips or cracks, especially on a crown you’ve had for years, get it checked. A damaged crown is asking for trouble—don’t wait for it to get worse.

3. Crown Feels Loose  

A crown should feel natural, like part of your tooth. If it feels wobbly, shifts when you chew, or just doesn’t feel right, it probably doesn’t fit anymore. That invites bacteria and food to get trapped, which can cause infection.

4. Changes in Appearance  

Crowns can fade, discolor, or stop matching the rest of your teeth. If yours stands out (and not in a good way), it might be time for an upgrade.

5. Receding Gums  

If your gums are pulling back from the crown or you notice more of the tooth beneath the crown than before, call your dentist. Gum recession can mean the crown isn’t fitting right, or there’s decay hiding under the edge.

If you’re noticing any of these issues, don’t wait for them to resolve without professional help. Carabella Dental of Alexandria is ready to take a look, check your crown, and let you know if it needs replacing. Catching problems early saves you a lot of trouble down the road.

What Happens When You Get a Crown Replaced? 

Here’s a quick rundown:

The dentist checks out the dental crown and the tooth underneath. Sometimes they’ll take X-rays.

• If the crown needs to go, they’ll remove it. If there’s decay, they’ll treat it first.
• They’ll take an impression of your tooth to make a new, custom crown.
• While you wait for the new one, you’ll get a temporary crown to keep things protected.
• When your new crown’s ready, they’ll fit it, make sure it feels right, and cement it in.

It’s usually a smooth process, and you’re back to normal pretty fast. Take care of your new crown, and it’ll stick with you for years.

If you think your dental crown needs attention, don’t wait around. Regular checkups at Carabella Dental in Alexandria can catch minor problems before they become major ones. Book an appointment, and keep your smile in great shape.

FAQs

1. How long do dental crowns last?

Dental crowns typically last between 10 and 15 years, depending on the material used and how well they’re cared for. With proper oral hygiene, they can last even longer.

2. Can I eat normally with a dental crown?

Yes, you can eat with a dental crown. However, it’s crucial to avoid tough foods that could potentially damage or loosen the crown.

3. Is the procedure to replace a crown painful?

The procedure to replace a dental crown is typically painless. Local anesthesia is used to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the procedure.

4. Can a dental crown be repaired instead of replaced?

In some cases, a dental crown may be repaired if it’s only slightly damaged. However, if it’s cracked or has decay beneath it, it will likely need to be replaced.