Like ancient royalty, unfortunately, dental crowns do not last forever. In fact, the average longevity of one is just around 15 years. Sometimes, those who take optimal care of their crown can increase that lifespan by another 10 to 15 years. However, no matter how intricate your oral hygiene routine is, it’s still possible to require a dental crown replacement at some point in your life. Whether you find a piece of it sticking out of an apple or detect some of the tell-tale signs listed below, restoring your smile may become necessary. Here are 3 signs that you should schedule an appointment with your Rockville, MD dentist to replace a crown.
1—Inflammed Gums Around Crown
Nothing demands attention like pain. If you notice swollen or painful gums surrounding an aging crown, pay attention to it. Monitor your sensitivity and if you notice that your tooth hurts during chewing or brushing, consider this a sign that you should take action. It’s possible that your crown has moved, become infected, or has aged to the point of collapse. Schedule an appointment with your dentist to investigate the problem and be careful to chew only soft foods to prevent losing the crown prematurely.
2—Gumline Recession
Often, a tooth with a crown may be more susceptible to bacteria than natural teeth. If you notice your gums receding around your dental crown, this may signify that gum disease is developing around the tooth. Some dental crowns can develop tiny gaps along their edges that are vulnerable to plaque. Without pristine oral hygiene, this plaque could also lead to tooth decay, compromising the integrity of your dental crown and the tooth beneath it. In this case, your dental crown may need to be altered or replaced.
3—Visible Damage on Crown
While most dental crowns are composed of reliable metals or dental porcelain, they can occasionally chip or crack. Natural wear and tear can weaken them over time, especially if the patient is in the habit of sometimes chewing ice or their nails. Like natural teeth, chipped or cracked dental crowns can become a breeding ground for bacteria, potentially reaching the tooth beneath the crown. Additionally, yellowing and other marks of age may signal that it’s time to replace a crown.
Fortunately, losing a dental crown is a normal and fixable occurrence. If you remain vigilant, you can catch the problem early on and quickly address it without much pain or hassle. Pay attention to your gums and the tooth itself to determine the best course of action. If you are still unsure, asking your local dentist is never a bad idea.
About the Practice
Dr. Shahram Modarres is a skilled and approachable dentist committed to providing high-quality restorative care for Rockville, MD patients for over 20 years. From filling cavities to replacing teeth, Dr. Modarres works carefully and efficiently to restore beautiful and healthy smiles. If you have questions about getting a dental crown replacement, feel free to reach out to Dr. Modarres and his team at (301) 816-9401 or through the Rockville Family Dentistry website.