Is It Time To Replace Your Dental Crowns?

Posted On July 3, 2024

If you have a weak tooth, a dental crown is an available restorative option. It protects the damaged area of the tooth and prevents further damage. In South Denver, crowns are popularly used to extend the lives of teeth that have broken, worn, or developed a cavity. When handled with care, crowns can last for up to a decade. 

However, you will still need to replace your dental crown at some point in your life. It is important to know what these indications are to avoid causing damage to your tooth. Routine dental check-ups are the best way to know whether it is time to change the crown, especially if you have a weak tooth or have undergone wisdom tooth extraction in South Denver. 

Signs that your dental crowns need a replacement.

• Pain and swelling.

If you are experiencing pain and swelling in your mouth or having bite problems, it may be a sign that your dental crown needs to be replaced immediately. Poorly fitted dental crowns can result in receding gums and severe tooth pain. The crown should be firmly attached to the tooth surface to aid in biting. Extra pressure on the crowned tooth while eating or brushing can lead to severe pain.

• Dental crown fracture.

One of the most common reasons for crown replacement is a crown fracture. Visible damage, such as chips or cracks, indicates that your crown is compromised. Cracks and fractures can result from grinding your teeth at night, using too much force while biting down, chewing hard food, facial trauma, and general wear and tear over time. Minor chips or cracks can be fixed by your dentist. However, if the fracture is major, the crown must be replaced.

• Crowns have become loose.

Your crowns can become loose over time due to various factors such as tooth grinding, cavities, or decay. When a crown becomes loose, food particles can get stuck beneath it, leading to oral health issues such as bacterial infections.

If your teeth feel sensitive while consuming hot or cold meals, it could mean that your crowns have become loose and need a replacement. A loose crown not only affects the tooth but also causes gum recession.

Getting a dental appointment is highly recommended to determine the extent of the looseness.

• Change in tooth appearance.

Dental crowns are used to fix the appearance of your smile. When a dental crown is worn for too long, you may notice a difference in the color of your crown and surrounding teeth. It is a sign to get them replaced as soon as possible.