A dental crown is a good fix for a damaged or decayed tooth, but it is not unbreakable. Over time, the dental cap you have might wear down or even break if you have an accident or eat something too hard. If you find that you have a broken dental cap, it is important that you learn the signs you exhibit that indicate the crown requires immediate repair. If you don’t fix the crown right away, several other health issues might arise.
Early detection can help you avoid undergoing extensive treatments in the future. In this blog, we will walk you through the common signs that your dental crown may be broken and why you need to address this problem immediately.
What is a Dental Crown and Why Does It Break?
A dental crown is basically a cap put on a decayed or damaged tooth. This helps restore the tooth’s shape, size, and functionality. Various materials are used to create dental caps. Some of these are porcelain, metal, or a combination of both. The final product is therefore both strong and aesthetically pleasing.
Nevertheless, it should be remembered that dental caps, although strong, are still susceptible to damage. Common reasons for damage to your crowns include:
- Biting down on hard objects or foods
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Years of use & wear & tear
- Trauma resulting from an accident or injury
It is important to remediate any resulting damage as soon as possible to prevent other problems, such as sensitivity and/or tooth loss.
Signs Your Crown Needs Immediate Repair
Damaged dental caps may lead to more complex issues if left untreated. Check out some common signs that your dental crowns in Las Vegas need attention as soon as possible.
1. Pain or Discomfort While Eating or Drinking
If you ever feel discomfort or pain from your dental crown, especially when you are consuming food or liquids, it is a sign of a problem. When a dental cap develops cracks, this exposes the underlying tooth. As a result, you will feel tooth sensitivity, especially when eating or drinking hot or cold foods or liquids. Pain from a dental problem may be sharp or aching, especially if it develops slowly.
2. Visible Cracks or Chips
One of the most obvious signs that you may need to fix your crown is a crack or chip on its surface. This type of damage to the crown may result from chewing hard foods and/or grinding the teeth and may lead to cracks that become severe enough to cause the crown to break into pieces.
3. Crown Loosening or Falling Off
If you notice that your crown is loose or, worse, falls out, you will need to consult a dentist right away. This is because when a crown is loose, it can leave the tooth vulnerable to bacteria and food debris, resulting in infection and/or decay. Sometimes, the crown can be intact, but no longer securely in place as it once was.
4. Gum Irritation or Swelling
Another sign you might have a dental crown issue is swelling, redness, or bleeding of the gums around the crown. When you have irritated gums, there is a fair chance that the cap is not adjusted properly or that the tooth is infected, which can be a grave sign and may lead to worsening conditions, such as an abscess or tooth loss.
5. Changes in Bite or Jaw Alignment
Sometimes a damaged or improperly fitted crown can affect the bite. If the bite seems off or if the jaw aches after eating, it may be a sign of a damaged crown. When the forces on the teeth are uneven, it may lead to increased tooth damage, jaw pain, and even headaches. If the wearer notices the bite is off or the jaw aches after a meal, the crown should be checked and repaired.
What Happens During a Dental Crown Repair?
When you go to your dentist with a broken crown, your first step will involve an evaluation. An examination will be conducted to see what kind of damage your crown received, as well as how much damage your underlying tooth may have sustained. If your crown can be salvaged, it will involve cleaning it and ensuring it fits properly. Otherwise, a new crown will be necessary.
In either situation, your dentist will ensure that the new or repaired crown fits comfortably and that your bite is properly aligned. This can usually be completed quickly and without much discomfort.
Why Timely Repair Matters?
Failure to address a chipped or broken crown may lead to more serious oral health complications. In a cracked crown, bacteria may enter, leading to an infection or decay, or, in the worst cases, a root canal. In a loose crown, there is a possibility of developing gum disease or damaging the tooth.
Seeking early repair for a damaged crown will ensure that you have healthy, natural teeth for a long time. In addition, delaying dental repair can lead to more complex treatment in the long run.
How to Care for Your Dental Crown?
Adequate care is required in ensuring the longevity of your dental caps. Here are a few tips:
- Avoid chewing on hard substances, such as pens or ice.
- If you grind your teeth in your sleep, you should talk to your dentist about a night guard.
- Clean around the implant site, brushing and flossing to keep the upper gum tissue healthy.
- Regular check-ups and cleanings with your dentist are recommended.
By following these easy procedures, you can extend the lifespan of your crown and avoid future repairs.
Ensure Your Crown’s Longevity
If you have noticed any signs that the crown is damaged or loose, whether it’s chipped, painful, loose, or gum-related, do not hesitate to seek dental attention to fix it. Visit Alatorre Dental in Las Vegas to have it checked.
Our team is committed to helping you keep your smile in the best possible condition and providing the highest level of care for your dental crowns. Contact us to schedule an appointment and get the restoration you need for a healthy smile for years to come.
FAQs
1. Can I wait to repair a broken crown?
Waiting too long to repair a broken crown can lead to infection or further tooth damage. It’s best to see a dentist as soon as possible to prevent complications.
2. How long do dental crowns last?
Dental crowns can last 5 to 15 years, depending on factors such as the material used, care, and your oral habits. Regular visits to your dentist can help extend the lifespan of your crown.
3. What happens if my crown falls off?
If your crown falls off, contact your dentist immediately. The underlying tooth is vulnerable to decay and infection, and your dentist will either re-cement the crown or create a new one.
4. Can a broken crown be repaired?
In many cases, a broken crown can be repaired by cleaning and re-cementing it. However, if the damage is severe, a new crown may be required.
5. Can a dental crown cause pain?
Dental crowns themselves do not cause pain, but if the crown is cracked or not fitting properly, it can lead to tooth sensitivity or discomfort. Seek dental care for any pain.