Imagine little protective caps for your teeth that keep your pearly whites safe and bacteria-free. Well, that’s exactly what dental crowns are. They are small shields that encase your teeth like a cover, preventing them from damage.
Ultimately, a crown is used to extend the lifespan of a damaged tooth, especially if it gets broken, chipped, or infected by bacteria. Plus, once a crown is attached to the tooth, it can last for a very long time, allowing you to go about your daily activities as normal. However, crowns are not permanent. There are times when they might need to get swapped out. It is important to pay attention to these signs so you don’t miss out on the right time to get your crown replaced.
Signs Your Dental Crown Needs to be Replaced
Crowns do not fall out on their own accord unless a lot of time has passed or they were damaged in some way. That is why it is important to keep track of when you got your crown and how it’s holding up. If you notice any of the following signs mentioned below, your crown probably needs to be replaced. Let your dentist know immediately and schedule an appointment as soon as you can.
- The Gums Surrounding the Crown are Swollen
It’s not normal for your gums to be swollen for no reason. Usually, the swelling occurs due to irritation or internal pain. If the gums around your crowned tooth remain swollen, it might be a cause for concern. - There is an Underlying Dull Throb in Your Tooth
A dull throbbing sensation under your crown is an indication that bacteria has snuck inside its fortress, causing the irritation, or that the crown has gotten displaced. - Your Gum Line Seems to be Receding
When bacteria attack the area where the gum line and crown meet, it can take a bigger toll on the gums, making them pull away from the tooth’s roots. This is a sign that there is an infection taking root and a crown replacement is needed. - Your Bite Doesn’t Fit Right
If you recently got your crown attached, but it feels like something is wrong with your bite, it might be because it wasn’t fitted well. Getting it taken out and then replaced will help restore the bite. - The Crown is Broken or Damaged
Biting into something hard and tough can unsettle your crown, making it shift from its position. At times, it can also crack and break, leading to pain and discomfort. - It’s Been Years Since You Got Your Crown
The timeline of when you got your dental crown plays a big role in deciding whether or not it needs to be replaced. If it has been more than five years since you got your crown, a replacement may be in order.
What’s The Takeaway?
Improper bite, broken crown, receding gum line, and common wear and tear are some of the most common signs your crown needs to be replaced. However, if you experience pain in your tooth with a crown, do not hesitate to let your dentist know. For more information, reach out to Almond Dental at either of the following locations:
- St. Anthony Location: 3803 Silver Lake Rd NE, St. Anthony, MN 55421, United States
Contact Number: (612) 782-7000 - Maple Grove Location: 11301 Fountains Dr, Maple Grove, MN 55369, United States
Contact Number: (763 ) 762-7177