Dental crowns are meant to serve as a restoration to damaged or weakened teeth, although similar to all dental restorations, they are not permanent. Crowns may become worn, loose, or damaged over time, impacting your oral health and comfort. Being aware of the time when you need a replacement can save you pain, decay, and expensive complications. In case you suspect that your crown has some issues, a dentist in Grande Prairie would be able to check your restoration and advise you on what to do next.
Understanding the Lifespan of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns in Grande Prairie are of good quality and can normally last 10-15 years in Grande Prairie, provided they are well maintained. But biting pressure, oral health, and the quality of materials could be some of the factors that affect the duration of your crown. Despite excellent treatment, crowns may develop complications that will need the services of a professional.
Common Dental Crown Replacement Signs
Early indicators of the need to replace your crown will assist you in preserving the tooth behind it. The following are some of the most prevalent dental crown replacement signs that should be monitored:
- Constant Pain or Sensitivity: In case of pain during biting or when hot and cold make your teeth tender, the crown may fail to fit anymore, or the tooth beneath it may be rotting.
- Visible Wear or Damage: Cracks, chips, or jagged edges are indications of a worn-out dental crown. Broken crowns may expose your tooth, resulting in additional issues.
- Loose or Shifting Crown: A loose crown may provide the entry of bacteria and thus infection. It can also be a sign of gum or tooth problems.
- Discoloration Around the Gum Line: Dark lines or patches on or around your gums can indicate that the material used in the crown is getting worn or that decay has begun under the crown.
- Bad Taste or Odor: In case of bad taste or chronic smell, there is a possibility of bacteria being trapped by a damaged dental crown, which means it is time to replace it.
When to Replace a Dental Crown
It is not always clear when a dental crown is to be replaced; still, any of the following causes justify your visit to a dental clinic near you:
- The crown is not comfortable or easy to chew.
- You see that there is swelling or redness around the gums.
- Separation between the crown and the gum is visible.
- The crown is loose, or when you bite it clicks.
- You have been wearing the same crown for over 15 years.
Before a dentist in Grande Prairie recommends a replacement, an x-ray to determine the health of the underlying tooth and integrity of the crown could be done.
Common Dental Crown Problems
Even good crowns may have a problem with time. The dental crown issues that are common are:
- Atrophic underneath the crown as a result of inadequate seal or recession of the gums.
- Fractures of the teeth that were due to teeth grinding or hard things that were bitten.
- Cement failure, which leads to loosening or movement.
- Introduction of irritation of the gum or allergic reactions to the materials of the crowns.
The early treatment of these problems eliminates subsequent complications and guarantees the preservation of oral health in the long term.
How to Extend the Life of Your Dental Crown
The care tips to use to prevent premature crown failure include:
- Brush and floss every day, particularly in the gum area.
- Do not chew hard objects such as ice, pens, etc.
- Wear a nightguard in case you grind your teeth.
- Test your teeth by going to a dental clinic near you.
Final Thoughts
Your dental crown is a very important factor in the strength of your smile and its appearance. Being aware of the warning of wear or damage can make you take action before the problem becomes a big one. When you feel that you need to have your crown replaced, book an appointment with Swanavon Dental Clinic today and get expert treatment and personalized services.
