Royal Replacements: 3 Signs You Need a New Dental Crown

Dental crowns are an effective way to protect and preserve a decayed or damaged tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted. Furthermore, these tooth-shaped prosthetics can be customized to match the shape, color, and size of your natural teeth so no one can tell the difference.

These caps are made from durable materials like porcelain or metal, but that doesn’t mean they’re completely invincible. Although they can last 15+ years if cared for correctly, your restoration will probably need to be replaced at some point. If you’re unsure whether it’s time, read on to learn three indicators that let you know you need a new dental crown!

Sign #1: You Notice Receding Gums

Dental crowns are often used to protect and preserve teeth that have developed decay, sustained an injury, or were treated with a root canal. That means its structure is compromised, leaving it more vulnerable to bacterial penetration than your other teeth. If you notice that the gums around your restoration have begun to pull away, you may have developed gum disease.

This can happen if your artificial tooth wasn’t appropriately placed initially or has since worn down, and it’s time for another. Contact your dentist to share your concerns, and they can provide you with a fresh dental crown and treat the disease to halt it in its tracks.

Sign #2: Your Tooth Hurts

When it comes to teeth, no pain is considered normal, especially for one treated with a prosthetic. Ideally, your dental crown covers your injured tooth to safeguard the tender pulp inside. When it’s adequately shielded, you have no reason to experience any aches or sensitivity. However, if it’s worn down from daily use or has been cracked or chipped, the underlying tooth is exposed to bacteria in your mouth and can become painfully inflamed.

If you’ve noticed any tenderness, redness, or sore sensations around your capped tooth, it’s time to contact your dentist to ask about a replacement.

Sign #3: Your Crown Looks Worn

One of the benefits of treating an injured tooth with a dental crown is that it simultaneously restores your smile’s functionality while enhancing its appearance. The resilient porcelain of your artificial tooth is coated with a glaze strong enough to resist some damage and discoloration, but over time, it can start to look worse for wear.

You might try to keep your teeth hidden if you’re anxious that you will be judged for how you look, which can detract from a healthy social life. If you’re avoiding spending time with others because of the condition of your grin, it’s worth looking into an upgrade.

Getting a new dental crown ensures that your smile looks and feels great for years to come!

About the Author

Dr. Christopher Cowell has 23+ years of experience helping patients improve their quality of life by enhancing their dental health. He offers a full array of services all under one roof to streamline your oral care and takes the time to get to know your unique needs so he can devise fully individualized treatment plans. Then, he utilizes state-of-the-art equipment to help you feel comfortable while delivering increasingly accurate results. If you’re concerned about the state of your dental crown, you can request an appointment on the website or call (386) 734-8585.