For all intents and purposes, dental crowns are designed to last. They’re meant to be a permanent part of your smile in that your treated tooth will always need some extra protection. Unfortunately, that doesn’t mean they last forever. Over time, wear and tear can reduce the effectiveness and cosmetics of your crown, and you’ll have to replace it with a new one.
Naturally, this begs the question: how will you know when it’s time to make the swap? Keep reading, and this post will give you some warning signs to watch out for!
You’re Not Satisfied with How it Looks
The way your smile appears is important. If you know your teeth don’t look their best, it makes it harder to enjoy the moment, relax, and say “Cheese!” When you’re starting to feel self-conscious about a crown that’s discolored or blemished, it’s time to invest in a new restoration and reclaim your confidence!
There Are Visible Cracks or Chips
Cracks and chips can also be a cosmetic concern, and in the case of dental crowns, they can cause problems for the tooth underneath. If your crown is damaged, it won’t be able to protect your vulnerable pearly white like it used to. Bacteria can slip past open crevices, increasing your risk of developing cavities or gum disease. Have your dentist take a look at your crown right away so they can fix the issue!
It Hurts to Eat
Not all signs of wear and tear are visible. Sometimes, your crown can be thinned out or damaged without you realizing it. However, in most cases, you’ll likely experience some dental discomfort. If your crown is old or doesn’t quite fit like it should, the tooth underneath will be more exposed to external sensations, which can make it unpleasant to eat, chew, or bite down. If your smile is more sensitive than usual, definitely go visit your dentist.
Your Gums are Red or Receding
When it’s time to replace your crown, there’s a good chance your tooth isn’t the only thing that’s aggravated. Even though your restoration doesn’t necessarily cover your gums, a poor fit, jagged edges, or uneven wear can irritate your pink oral tissue. Red, bleeding, or receding gums are always a good reason to contact your dentist and make an appointment.
Being able to tell your dental crown has reached the end of its lifespan isn’t always easy. But that’s why you have a dentist! When you visit for your biannual checkup and cleaning, they’ll check on any existing dental work to make sure your smile is still well-supported. If you’re not sure whether it’s time to replace your crown, ask your dentist. They’ll be able to tell within a matter of minutes.
About the Practice
At Healthy Smiles Dental Care, we have five excellent dentists on staff who would be happy to help you with your oral concerns. If you’d like to have a professional check on your dental crown, our dedicated team will go the extra mile to make sure your smile is healthy and protected. To schedule an appointment or contact our office with questions, call 517-333-3160.