Common Reasons Dental Crowns Need Replacement

Dental crowns are fabricated to make sure that patients can benefit from their ability to strengthen damaged or weak teeth and improve the aesthetics of these teeth. However, although dental crowns tend to be very durable, they are not eternal and therefore can experience some deterioration over time. This knowledge is vital for maintaining good oral health.

Wear and Tear

The first reason as to why a patient may need a new dental crown is wear and tear. It should be borne in mind that dental crowns withstand great pressure daily since patients grind and chew food. Hence, after many years, dental crowns start wearing out and losing their protective properties due to this very reason.

Porcelain crowns have high chances of discoloring and breaking when they are used for long periods of time. Although crowns are extremely durable, they will certainly undergo some wear with time because of daily activities.

Decay beneath the Crown

A crown is fixed on the upper portion of the tooth, although tooth decay may still take place in this area beneath the crown. The reason why tooth decay occurs is that bacteria accumulate inside small areas surrounding the edges of the crown, thus causing tooth decay. As a consequence of tooth decay, a patient feels pain and tooth sensitivity.

In the event that there has been considerable tooth decay, it is imperative that the old crown be replaced with a new one.

Crowns with Cracks or Damage

Cracks or breaks on crowns can be brought about by accidents or teeth grinding and excessive biting pressure. Though crowns are strong, made from high-quality dental materials designed for durability and aesthetics, there may be cracks that spread, making the entire crown weaker.  

When a crown is cracked, it will allow bacteria to access the inner parts of the tooth, hence causing infections. It is best that the crowns be changed to avoid complications.

Gum Recession

The second issue that might prompt an individual to change their crowns is gum recession. With gum recession, an individual will notice changes in their teeth since the margin lines of the crown will show.

There is increased sensitivity to the teeth due to gum recession, causing dark lines on older crowns.

Loose Crowns

Crown retention occurs through the use of dental cement, which is quite strong and resilient however crowns end up becoming loose as a result of degraded cement, decay beneath, and/or grinding/teeth clenching.

Loose crowns can be identified by the movement of the crown while chewing food and pain in biting. It is best not to ignore loose crowns since they can lead to infections and other complications. Your dentist would most likely recommend replacing the crown.

Bite Alignment Changes

Another issue that could pose danger for your crown is bite alignment change. Teeth may move positions over the years. In fact, the loss of adjacent teeth causes bite alignment changes, which could place additional stress on the crown.

Alignment of the crown could lead to headaches, jaw pain, and problems with chewing.

Aesthetic Problems

In most scenarios, patients may choose to replace their crowns because of aesthetics. There could be cases where crowns might get discolored or look unsuitable when compared with other teeth because of the aging process. With advances in dental technology, however, it’s now possible to have something better than crowns that look like real enamel.

If you are among those who wish to improve the look of their teeth and smile, it would make sense to consider replacing your old metal crowns with new ones that are attractive.

Conclusion

It is true that crowns are necessary for ensuring your damaged teeth remain healthy; however, they too require care and timely replacement from time to time to perform their functions effectively. It will help you avoid any major dental problem simply by being mindful of certain symptoms, including sensitivity, pain, loose crowns, and discoloration. The experts at D. Dental in the Colony, led by Dr. Ryan Denial, are always ready to help people maintain their oral health in the best possible manner.