Dental crowns are a popular way to protect and preserve damaged or decayed teeth that are too injured for a tooth-colored filling to be effective. These tooth-shaped caps are usually made from durable ceramic that’s customized to match your natural enamel for seamless results.
Plus, this material is durable enough to withstand the pressure of daily biting and chewing, and can potentially last 10 or more years if cared for correctly. If you’re unsure whether your restoration is nearing the end of its lifespan, continue reading to learn about 3 indicators that let you know you might need a new one!
Sign #1: Receding Gums
Many dental crowns are placed over teeth that have undergone a root canal treatment, have been damaged in some way, or have been thinned to anchor a replacement tooth, such as a dental bridge. Although your restoration helps protect the vulnerable pearly white beneath it, it’s still possible for bacteria to penetrate the surrounding gum tissues and cause disease.
If you develop a periodontal problem and it goes untreated, your connective tissues eventually start to pull away from the troublesome tooth. You may start to see more of the root of your tooth become visible, and your dental crown could fail if you wait too long to contact your dentist for help.
Sign #2: Dark Line at the Base
In the past, dental crowns were made from amalgam mixtures of metal that were strong enough to withstand the pressure of daily biting and chewing. Thanks to more modern dental technology and materials, today, most providers create more lifelike restorations using customizable, tooth-colored ceramic.
However, some patients receive a prosthetic made from porcelain-fused-to-metal, which combines the best of both options. If you have a tooth-colored dental crown and you’ve noticed a dark line forming along its base, you may be seeing the metallic components showing through as the porcelain thins over time. It’s worth consulting your dentist to determine whether it should be replaced.
Sign #3: Visible Wear & Tear
The cover placed over your tooth is made up of ceramic, which is less porous than your natural enamel. That means it’s better able to resist stains, chips, cracks, and other types of damage.
But these restorations aren’t invincible, and they can be injured by eating foods that are too hard or sticky, or biting inanimate objects like pen caps or fingernails. They can also eventually absorb darkly pigmented particles and become discolored. If your crown looks dirty or worn, replacing it can potentially improve your oral health and your appearance.
Your dentist can examine your mouth and take X-rays to see beneath the surface of your gums to help determine for sure whether it’s time for a new dental crown!
Meet the Author
Dr. Tamara Kasmikha enjoys helping families in Sterling Heights build and maintain beautiful, healthy teeth and gums. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, and today, she provides a comprehensive menu of services under one roof to people of all ages. She prioritizes patient care and offers spa-like amenities, like essential oils and dental sedation, to help you feel calm and comfortable throughout your visit. If you’re concerned about the condition of your restoration, you can request an appointment on the website or call (586) 803-1901.