Dental crowns are known to last up to 10-15 years, but that doesn’t mean it’s applicable to everyone. Every crown is still different, and it may need to be assessed for repair or replacement earlier than its expected lifespan. The good news is, there are signs that may signal a replacement; you just need to know how to spot them. So, what are these signs? 

Receding Gum Line

Bacteria gathers around a tooth more with a crown, which means your dental crowns will put you at a higher risk of getting gum disease. Sure, good oral hygiene and using mouthwash will help prevent gum complications, but it’s still crucial to check in with your dentist if you notice your gum line receding. 

Pain or Swelling

When you notice pain, swelling, or inflammation around your crowned tooth, it’s time you see a dentist. For example, do you experience increased sensitivity or pain when chewing? If so, your dental crown could be too high on the tooth, or it’s already old or damaged, which means it’s time to have it replaced. 

Wear and Tear

Over the years, it’s natural to notice your crown looking more worn down. This is expected; after all, it’s not meant to last for a long time. Wearing and tearing of dental crowns occur commonly for people who grind their teeth. Moreover, wear and tear are also an indication of the age of the crown. 

On the other hand, wear and tear of the crown can also be a sign of something more serious, such as bruxism or poor oral hygiene. Don’t put this off any longer; visit your dentist to find the best course of action to address the problem before it gets worse. 

Damaged Crown

It’s true that the materials used for dental crowns today have developed. Still, that doesn’t mean it won’t sustain any damages. In fact, crowns that are made from porcelain are more prone to chips and cracks. If you have a damaged crown, your dentist will assess whether it can still be repaired or if you need a full dental crown replacement. 

Unpleasant Look

Are your crowns no longer aesthetically pleasing? It’s a powerful indicator to have it replaced. Individuals with porcelain crowns fused to metal may notice a dark line along their teeth, which means the crown’s metal is already showing through. 

Old Crown

If your dental crown is 10 years old or older, even if it doesn’t show any physical signs of damage, it may be the best time to replace it. A crown that is 10 years old must already be monitored regularly. Also, even if some insurance companies may cover the cost of dental crown replacement as early as five years, the policies still vary. 

Conclusion

Knowing the signs of a dental crown replacement is important. Otherwise, you could end up in deeper dental trouble if you put things off any longer. With that, make sure you see your dentist regularly and have your dental crown checked. 

Edmonton Smiles offers preventive services, emergency dental treatments, and cosmetic dentistry in Edmonton. If you have a dental crown problem, our friendly dentists can take care of that! Book an appointment today. 

 

Posted in Dental News & Advice