How Will I Know If My Dental Crowns Need to Be Replaced?
Dental crowns can dramatically restore the function and aesthetics of your smile. Dental crowns are caps that cover and protect tooth structure. They can also be used to cap a dental implant and replace a missing tooth. Crowns can be composed of durable metal, porcelain, or a combination of both. The lifespan of your dental crowns depends on a variety of factors.
Dr. Nathaniel Podilsky has practiced dentistry for almost four decades, and knows what it takes to make crowns last. Below, our downtown Edmonton, AB, practice shares four signs that your dental crowns need to be replaced.
1. Gum Problems
Cracked or shattered dental crowns may expose the underlying tooth and irritate the gumline. This can cause inflammation, swelling, or tenderness of the gums. If you are experiencing redness, swelling, discomfort, or gum recession around your crown, these could be signs that the crown needs to be refitted or replaced.
2. Crown Damage
Even though dental crowns are durable, they can be damaged by a variety of things. Accidents, oral trauma, bruxism (teeth grinding), and even normal wear and tear can affect the strength and stability of a crown. Restoring the integrity of the dental crown is essential for lasting dental health and to protect the healthy tooth structure that’s been capped.
3. Bite Misalignment
Dental crowns are custom fit to your bite. As you eat, speak, or simply touch your upper and lower rows of teeth, the fit should feel comfortable and natural. If your bite starts to feel “off” or uneven, it could be a sign that your crown may need to be adjusted or replaced.
4. Discoloration
If your dental crown consists of a tooth-colored material fused to metal, wear to the crown can lead to some of that material coming off. You may notice dark or discolored appearance. Changes in the color or general appearance of a crown are a good sign that they will need to be replaced.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Usually Last?
A dental crown can last at least 10 years with proper oral hygiene and care. This is a typical lifespan whether they’re CEREC® same-day crowns or restorations crafted at a dental lab. If your crowns are damaged before 10 years are up, we help replace them.
Getting a New Dental Crown
When you visit our downtown Edmonton dental practice, Dr. Podilsky will perform a full examination of your crown and surrounding teeth. He will discuss your concerns and any issues you’ve experienced. He can then determine the ideal treatment option to fix your crown and restore your dental health.
In some cases, patients may be able to get a new custom crown in a single visit thanks to CEREC in-office milling technology. These tooth-colored restorations are comparable to those crafted at a dental lab.
Contact Our Dental Office Today
If you are worried about your dental crown, you can visit us at our downtown Edmonton location. Send us a message online or call (780) 900-6433 to schedule a dental crown consultation. We look forward to your visit and discuss your dental health goals.