What is A Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a prosthetic that covers a tooth or implant. It is typically made of porcelain and provides strength to teeth that have experienced decay, trauma, multiple fillings, or root canal therapy. Dental crowns can also enhance the appearance, shape, and alignment of teeth or implants. The dental crown procedure is common and usually painless. It involves the dentist preparing the tooth by removing part of its outer layer. Impressions of your mouth are taken to create the crown, which is then attached to the tooth using dental cement.
After the dental crown procedure, most crowns last around five years, with some lasting up to 20 years without needing replacement. However, it’s important to be aware of common problems that can occur with dental crowns and how to address them. Here are a few of them we think you should be aware of:
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Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is a common issue that can affect crowned teeth. Without proper oral hygiene, new decay can develop and damage the dental structures surrounding or beneath the crown.
Solution: Maintain good dental hygiene practices, such as brushing your teeth twice a day and regularly flossing. Regular dental check-ups are also important for your dentist to monitor the crown and identify any early signs of decay. Recall that, for oral hygiene maintenance, promptly addressing underlying issues with your dentist is the best thing to do. if you may be wondering what the cost of dental crown is three of the top destination find out on this link visit the https://dentakay.com/dental-crowns-cost/
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Crown Failure
Crown failure can happen over time, due to recurrent decay, or as a result of injury or trauma. Crowns may debond and come off the tooth. To minimize the risk of crown failure, avoid consuming very hard foods, especially if the crown has been in place for several years.
Solution: Practice good oral hygiene to reduce the risk of decay, as decay weakens the crown. If you participate in high-risk activities like contact sports, wearing a mouthguard is advisable.
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Greying Gums:
Gums may appear dull or turn grey when gold or metal-based crowns are used. Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment can also darken over time. If there is a recession exposing the root surface, the greying becomes more noticeable. This is caused by the darker root or the metallic material of the crown showing through the gum. Although it may not look pleasing, there is no need to be concerned.
Solution: To address discolored gums, the crown can be replaced with a full porcelain one or the crown margin can be lowered to match the new gum height in case of recession.
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Allergic Reactions:
While extremely rare, some patients may experience allergic reactions to crowns containing metal. Symptoms may include soreness or swelling in the gum or tissue surrounding the crown.
Solution: Opt for porcelain-based dental crowns instead of metal. Porcelain crowns are more biocompatible and less likely to cause allergic reactions.
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Nerve Pain:
The pulp inside teeth contains sensitive nerves, and a dental crown procedure can disturb these nerves and cause pain, especially if the tooth already has deep decay or a filling that compromised the pulp. Pain may occur immediately after the crown procedure or even weeks to months later.
Solution: Your dentist will assess the health of the tooth nerve before placing the crown. If nerve pain occurs and the tooth becomes infected, root canal therapy can be performed through the crown while monitoring the crown’s condition. If you experience pain in a crowned tooth, it is important to seek immediate dental attention by booking an appointment.
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Cracked or Fractured Crown:
Porcelain dental crowns can crack or fracture similar to natural teeth, making it a common issue for many people.
Solution: Minor cracks or chips can often be repaired or monitored by your dentist. However, significant damage to the crown, such as a large break, will require a full replacement.
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Sensitive Teeth:
Sensitivity is normal immediately after dental crown treatment and typically subsides within one or two weeks. If sensitivity persists beyond this period, it may indicate the need to check the crown margins and the nerve health of the tooth.
Solution: If you continue to experience lasting sensitivity, it is recommended to return to your dentist. They can assess the tooth for nerve health or exposed margins.
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Uneven Bite:
Each person’s bite is unique, and while dental labs strive for a perfect fit, it is common for the crown to require adjustments to match your individual bite after it has been cemented in place. Sometimes, when you are numbed for crown placement, it can be challenging to get your teeth to bite together normally, leading to a peculiar feeling. In such cases, further adjustment of the crown may be necessary once the numbness wears off.
Solution: If you notice that your crown is affecting your bite, it is advisable to contact your dentist to evaluate the bite and fit of your new crown.
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Mismatched Colors with Natural Teeth:
Dental crowns can be customized to match the color of your natural teeth. It’s important to have a crown that blends seamlessly with the rest of your teeth to avoid a mismatched appearance.
Solution: Ensure that your dentist carefully matches the color of the crown to your natural teeth and checks it before cementing it in place. If there is a noticeable difference in color, discuss it with your dentist, as the crown can be replaced with a different shade.
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Excessive Dental Wear:
When a crown is inserted, its surface may need to be adjusted to align properly with the opposing teeth. However, dental crowns, being strong, can cause wear on the opposing teeth over time.
Solution: If you feel that your crown is causing excessive wear or feels abrasive, it’s recommended that you consult your dentist. They can adjust the crown’s surface to minimize additional wear.
It’s not out of place for you to have certain issues if you have dental crowns installed. We believe we’ve armed you with enough information to overcome these problems, to some extent. However, if you experience any of the mentioned symptoms and you feel it’s a little over your head, or have concerns about your crowns, it’s important to communicate with your dentist. If you have any questions regarding your dental health or wish to see a dentist, you can book a consultation with us. We’re available to help!
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