Dental crown treatment can often be a necessary step in restoring your smile. If one or more of your teeth become severely damaged or decayed, dental crown treatment can be one of the best options both in terms of longevity and cost. This is why many people who have received crowns keep them for many years—sometimes longer than they should.
But how would you know if a dental crown needs replacement? After all, you’re not a dentist. While that may be true, it’s only a lack of knowledge that holds you back from making an important and informed decision to have your crown replaced.
There are several signs that could point to a dental crown restoration. Read on to seize this information for yourself and impress your dentist with your foresight at your next appointment.
Your Bite Doesn’t Feel Right
There’s a unique sensation that comes with closing your mouth only to have one or two of your teeth click or grind against one another. It’s unpleasant and irritating, to say the least, but it can also be a sign that your dental crown is out of place.
Your Gums are Receding
Normal, healthy gums will be pale pink and cling tightly to your teeth. If you notice any redness, or if the tissue around your crown is starting to look loose, your dental crown may have been improperly placed or may have shifted over time.
This irritation and puffiness could also be a sign of gum disease, so it’s best to visit your dentist and have a full screening done to determine the cause—especially if there is any pain or swelling around the tooth. Either way, your dentist will be able to recommend treatment.
Your Crown is Over Ten Years Old
Dental crown treatment today lasts for years and years thanks to advancements in dental technology. This is good news for patients who need solutions for their oral health that will stand the test of time, but it can also cause complacency.
Over time, your dental crown will begin to show signs of wear and tear. Depending on your eating habits and whether you grind your teeth, the life of your crown will vary. However, once it has become sufficiently worn from use, it might be time to schedule a replacement.
Your Crown is Broken
This one should be the easiest to diagnose yourself. Crowns made of porcelain or porcelain composite are far more likely to become chipped and damaged over time. If your crown has worn down to the point of breaking, it’s time to go to the dentist—quickly.
If you catch the broken crown early and schedule an appointment, the chances of your dentist being able to repair it increase. The longer you wait, the more likely it is that you’ll need to have the entire crown replaced with a new one.
Recognizing signs of needed dental crown replacement, remember that your smile’s well-being rests on both your awareness and timely action. When you see any of these signs while doing your regular oral care routine, it might be best to take a moment and evaluate. If you don’t know what to do, give your dentist a call.
About the Practice
At Hiner Family Dentistry, Dr. Matt and Dr. Reagan Hiner bring their family-first mentality to the forefront of care. As husband and wife, they can more easily dedicate their work to their patients, which makes all the difference in the quality of treatment. Their commitment to excellence and continued education has earned them membership in several professional organizations like the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, and Academy for Sports Dentistry. For more information on dental crowns or other treatments, visit their website here or call (713) 589-5539.