Whether it is from an injury, tooth decay, or other reasons, our teeth are bound to lose shape and get damaged over time. When first-line treatment options do not seem to cure your concerns, a dental crown is often the final resort for restoration. Dental crowns are replacement caps that dentists attach over the affected tooth. They help to reconstruct the appearance of your smile. However, although it is one of the long-term solutions for a diseased or decaying tooth, dental crown problems can still exist.
Dental Crown Problems
Dental crown complications can arise depending on several factors. While it is normal for these kinds of concerns to happen because of our varying oral health and body reactions, some dental crown problems that show up can be pretty alarming. Crown problems usually appear after a month following the procedure. It is essential to know what kinds of issues you should look out, so you can notice any signs of concern as early as possible.
Here are the most common dental crown problems, along with their solutions.
Tooth Decay
It is common knowledge that the presence of any junctions in your mouth is a site for bacteria build-up. Dental crowns invite plaque formation, especially along with hard-to-reach areas, potentially leading to tooth decay. Without proper oral hygiene, there is a high chance that the decay can result in a much worse condition.
If you do not want to experience the complications brought by tooth decay, adopting good oral hygiene will help. Simple techniques from brushing twice a day and regular flossing can go a long way to prevent cavities and germs’ growth.
Gum Disease
Without proper tooth decay intervention, gingivitis and gum disease can develop and cause further inflammation along the area where tooth decay is present. Gum disease is a serious concern that can be detrimental to your overall health. Its symptoms include bleeding gums, bad breath, and pus formation on the different areas of your mouth.
To treat gum disease, your dentist will have to conduct a root canal surgery to drain any fluid that leads to irritation. This procedure is necessary to stop the progression of your tooth decay or gum disease.
Chipping
Chips and cracks are relatively common with traditional porcelain crowns. Back in the days, porcelain crowns are not as strong as metal crowns and could only last for a maximum of five years. Luckily, innovations and developments in the dental practice have led to the discovery of more robust dental materials. Thus, most dental crowns are now more resistant to fractures.
Newer versions of porcelain crowns can last for decades. However, there are still cases where chipping happens. If cracks in your dental crown are present, your dentist will assess if he can add filling into the area. In case the cracks are big enough, and there is no other way around it, total crown replacement is necessary.
Loose Crown
Sometimes, dental crowns can lose their fit or detach from the tooth. Typically, the crown’s loosening happens over time and is a common cause for those who have had their dental crown for years.
It is essential to visit your dentist as soon as possible to avoid the complete dislodgement of your crown. Your dentist will add dental cement to reattach the crown on your teeth.
Tooth and Gum Sensitivity
After a dental crown procedure, you may experience tooth and gum sensitivity. The placement of dental crowns involves reshaping parts of the teeth that can reveal the lower portion of the dentin. If the crown fails to sit well enough, it may expose some dentin to hot and cold conditions, leading to sensitivity.
It is crucial to immediately inform your dentist if you feel any discomfort after getting a crown, as sensitivity can also root from underlying gum disease. Typically, these cases are dealt with by careful assessment for the root cause of your discomfort. Standard treatment includes the placement of a solution that will help shield your teeth and gums.
Gum Discoloration
Many people prefer porcelain crowns with an infusion of metallic materials. In these types of dental crowns, the metal will act as a substructure for the porcelain material. Over time, our gums will naturally recede. As we age, the crown’s metallic substructure will be more exposed and appear as a greyish line along the gums.
Gum discoloration due to the metallic substructure is not a sign of gum disease. It also does not cause any discomfort to the individual. The only concern is its unsightly appearance that may become bothersome.
Nerve Problems
Nerve endings that are present within the pulp of the tooth can sometimes cause pain. Sometimes, placement of dental crowns may irritate a person’s nerve endings which leads to unbearable discomfort. When this situation happens, your dentist will need to perform a root canal treatment. The root canal procedure will help repair any damages that have been causing the pain. Afterward, there will be an attachment of a new crown for replacement.
Dealing with Dental Crown Problems
When you happen to feel pain under your dental crown or experience other problems that cause you discomfort, it is necessary to contact an emergency dentist as soon as possible. Dental crown problems are serious that could cause further complications without the proper treatment. Immediate intervention is required to sort out these problems straight away.
Emergency Dentist in Adelaide
In need of urgent dental attention for your dental crown? You can contact our emergency dentist in Adelaide for the immediate care that you need.
We know how dreadful it could feel to experience dental emergencies. It is our dedication to provide after hours dental solutions that will ensure your safety and comfort. Our dentists are well-trained and experienced to deliver the right dental care for every situation.