Dental Crowns – How to Identify When Something Is Wrong

A dental crown is an ideal solution for restoring teeth. But there are particular problems that can occur with a crown. If you experience any complications after your crown is placed, you should contact your dentist as soon as you can. Several clues can tell you that your dental crown needs the dentist’s attention. Read on to find out several problems that can develop with dental crowns and when to contact your dentist.

Dental crown problems

A dental crown can be placed over a tooth for a wide array of reasons. A crown can aid in restoring the strength or shape of a tooth. It can also be used to cover discoloration or protect a tooth with a large filling. While dental crowns can last a lifetime, complications can still arise. Here are some common dental crown problems.

Sensitivity or discomfort

When a dental crown is placed on a tooth, it is not uncommon to experience pain and sensitivity, especially to hot and cold. But there are several ways to manage the pain and sensitivity. A dentist may recommend brushing the teeth with toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. Over-the-counter pain relievers and topical analgesics can also help.

Many times, the discomfort often eases in a couple of days. If the discomfort lasts for a long time or gets worse, it is vital to call the dentist. Problems can occur if the crown is not completely covering the part of the tooth that was exposed after removing the decay. In such cases, a new better fitting dental crown may resolve the problem. A person can also experience discomfort if the tooth is more decayed than originally thought and needs a root canal. Regardless of the reason for the pain or discomfort, a dentist will be able to help.

Chipped or cracked crown

Dental crowns are made from different types of materials, including resin and porcelain. Although these materials are strong, they are not indestructible. Crowns made of porcelain and resin can sometimes crack or chip. This can occur because of a blow to the face or from biting down on something hard.

Sometimes, it is possible to see the damage, or a person may feel it with the tongue. In other cases, an X-ray may be needed to detect problems with a dental crown. If there are signs of any problems, it is advisable to visit the dentist to have it checked out. This will allow the dentist to fix the dental crown as soon as possible if any issues are identified.

Caring for your dental crown

Dental crowns usually last for many years. But it is essential to visit the dentist regularly to make sure that dental crowns are in good shape. You should also brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily. It is normal to experience some pain and sensitivity after a crown is placed. A dental crown can also chip or crack. If you have a dental crown and experience any of these problems, contact your dentist right away.

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