Dental crowns are a durable and reliable solution for restoring damaged or weakened teeth, but they’re not designed to last forever. Over time, normal wear and tear, changes in your oral health, or even trauma can affect how well your crown functions or how it looks. Knowing when to replace a dental crown is essential to maintain your oral health and avoid further complications.
Here are some common signs that it may be time to replace your dental crown.
Pain or Sensitivity Around the Crown
A well-fitted crown should feel comfortable and protect the underlying tooth. If you begin to experience pain, pressure, or sensitivity, especially when biting down or eating hot or cold foods, it may indicate that something is wrong beneath the crown. This could be due to tooth decay, gum recession, or even a loose crown that’s exposing part of the tooth underneath.
Persistent discomfort is a signal to schedule a dental visit.
Visible Wear or Damage
Dental crowns are made from durable materials like porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination. However, they can still chip, crack, or wear down over time, particularly if you grind your teeth or chew on hard objects. If you notice visible damage or your bite feels uneven, your crown might not be providing the protection your tooth needs anymore.
A cracked crown can also allow bacteria to enter and cause decay beneath the surface.
Receding Gums Around the Crown
If your gums begin to pull away from the base of your crown, this could expose the margin where the crown meets the tooth. Gum recession not only affects the look of your smile but also makes it easier for bacteria to sneak in and cause problems.
A receding gumline around a crown may require not just crown replacement, but also treatment for gum disease.
The Crown Feels Loose or Shifts
A loose crown is more than just annoying; it’s a red flag. Crowns are cemented or bonded in place, so if it starts to feel unstable or wobbly, it could be due to weakened cement, tooth decay underneath, or a compromised fit. A loose crown won’t protect your tooth properly and could fall out completely if left untreated.
Your Crown Looks Discolored or Out of Place
Crowns made from porcelain or ceramic are designed to mimic the natural color of your teeth. But over time, your surrounding teeth may change color while the crown remains the same, making it stand out. Or, if your crown was matched poorly to begin with, you might want a more aesthetically pleasing option.
If your crown is affecting your confidence, it’s worth exploring a cosmetic update.
Dental crowns can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or more, but they’re not invincible. If you’re experiencing any signs including pain, damage, gum issues, looseness, or cosmetic concerns, it may be time to replace your crown. By staying aware and proactive, you can ensure your restored tooth remains healthy, strong, and beautiful for years to come.
About the Practice
If it’s time to replace your existing dental crown, we offer several compelling reasons to choose Family Dental Center of East Texas as your preferred provider. We offer same-day crowns, so there’s no going back or forth or taking time off work for multiple dental appointments. Our all-ceramic restorations are natural looking, and we practice in a modern dental office for high-quality care. Schedule your appointment today online or call our Center office (936) 427-9070.