5 Most Common Reasons for Dental Crowns Failure

Dental crowns are excellent solutions for repairing, protecting, and strengthening severely decayed, broken, chipped, or discolored teeth. Unlike most dental restorations, dental crowns cover the entire visible structure of the tooth, improving its size, shape, and color. Most crowns last for more than 15 years with proper dental hygiene and habits.

While very strong and durable, dental crowns aren’t indestructible. Certain factors can cause them to fail, break, chip, or stain. This article looks at reasons why a dental crown can fail and signs that could indicate that your crown has failed.

5 Reasons for Crown failure

While rare, below are common reasons why dental crowns fail:

• Poor construction and installation

Poor crown construction and installation or poor tooth preparation cause your crown to feel loose, uncomfortable and even fall out. A properly installed dental crown should look and feel like a natural tooth. It shouldn’t move when speaking or eating and shouldn’t cause any discomfort. Working with a well-trained and experienced dentist significantly reduces your risk of crown failure.

• Old age

Unlike your natural tooth, dental crowns don’t last forever. Over time, the crown may wear down, look dull, and even fall out. The lifespan of your crown mainly depends on the crown material and your oral habits. See your dentist immediately if your crown is worn down or damaged.

• Gum disease and tooth decay under the crown

While dental crowns are meant to cover your tooth completely, bacteria could still get to the underlying tooth, causing decay. Similarly, bacteria or saliva can get trapped under the crown during installation, causing decay. Gum disease can cause gum recession, exposing the tooth’s roots and allowing bacteria to enter under the crown.

• Poor dental hygiene

While your crown can’t get cavities, the underlying tooth can. Inadequate brushing and flossing, especially around the crown, increases your risk of tooth failure. Brush and floss regularly to keep your teeth and crown in excellent condition.

• Damaging dental habits

Bad dental habits like chewing ice, nails, and pens put your crown at a greater risk of chipping, breaking, or loosening. Chewing chewy and hard foods can also damage your teeth and crown.

Signs of a failed crown

You must see your dentist immediately if your crown is damaged or failed. If not promptly repaired or replaced, a damaged or failed crown can cause bacteria to enter the underlying tooth, causing decay and other infections. Below are key signs of a failed crown to watch out for:

• Loose crown: Teeth crowns should normally fit snugly without moving or causing discomfort. A crown often feels loose due to poor installation or old age. Notify your dentist immediately if your new or old crown feels loose.
• Visible damages or wear: A dental crown eventually wears down over time. You should plan a visit to your dentist if you notice visible cracks, leaks, or damages on the crown.
• Crown discoloration: Decay under the crown or metallic defects can cause your crown to look discolored or stained along the gum line.
• Pain and sensitivity under the crown: When you have a new crown placed, it’s normal to experience minor sensitivity or soreness around it for a few days. However, if the discomfort doesn’t settle or worsen, it could indicate a problem.

Pain or sensitivity under an old crown may indicate severe tooth decay or a loose crown. Pain or sensitivity when brushing or chewing may indicate poor tooth preparation and crown installation. See your dentist for repair or replacement as soon as possible.

Can I Fix a Failed Crown?

Fortunately, a failed crown can be replaced or repaired. If the underneath tooth is infected or decayed, you may need a root canal to remove the infection before restoring a crown. If the tooth has sustained extreme damage, the best option would be to extract the tooth. Then, you can replace it with an implant, bridge, or denture.

Are you interested in dental crowns in Bristol, CT?

Do you have a damaged, ill-fitting, uncomfortable, or failed dental crown?  Contact Admire Dental – Bristol to book your consultation today.