6 Signs Your Dental Crown Needs Replacing
At our SW Portland dental office, Dr. Kim Hoang believes your smile is one of your greatest assets. Dental crowns protect weakened or damaged teeth and restore their function. However, crowns don’t last forever. Knowing when to replace them is key to maintaining your oral health and smile.
If you’re feeling discomfort or noticing changes to your crown, it might be time for a replacement. Here are some common signs your crown needs attention, and how Terwilliger Dental can help prevent bigger dental issues.
What Is a Dental Crown and Why Is It Important?
A dental crown, often referred to as a “cap,” is a custom-made restoration designed to cover and protect a damaged or decayed tooth. Crowns also serve as a replacement tooth when attached to dental implants, providing strength, stability and a natural appearance.
While crowns are durable by design, regular wear and tear, lifestyle habits and aging can reduce their effectiveness over time. Recognizing warning signs early can help prevent further complications and maintain the long-term health of your teeth.
Signs Your Dental Crown May Need Replacing
If you’re experiencing any of the following signs, it may be time to replace your crown:
1. Visible Chips, Cracks, or Wear
Crowns are built to last but habits like teeth grinding or clenching can wear them down sooner. Even a small chip or crack can expose the tooth underneath to bacteria, increasing the risk of infection.
2. Pain or Discomfort Around the Crown
If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort when chewing, or if there’s a persistent ache around the crowned tooth, it might indicate an issue. This could mean the crown has shifted, become misaligned, or that the tooth underneath is developing new decay.
3. Receding Gums
A receding gum line around a crowned tooth doesn’t just impact your smile—it can create pockets where bacteria thrive, leading to infection and inflammation. This may be caused by an ill-fitting or aging crown.
4. Sudden Sensitivity to Hot or Cold
Abrupt sensitivity to food or beverages can signal that the adhesive securing your crown has worn down. This leaves the underlying tooth exposed, making it more vulnerable to temperature changes and potential damage.
5. Strange Odor or Taste
If you notice an unusual smell or taste near a crowned tooth, it might be due to bacteria accumulating underneath a loose-fitting crown. Left untreated, this could lead to decay, infection or gum disease.
6. It’s Been Over 10 Years
Though dental crowns are made to last, research shows they often require replacement after 10-15 years due to wear, gum recession or underlying decay. Advances in modern materials mean replacement crowns are often more durable and natural-looking.
Why It’s Important to Replace a Damaged Crown
Replacing a damaged dental crown early can prevent further decay, protect surrounding teeth and gums, maintain tooth structure and reduce the need for more invasive treatments. Acting promptly safeguards your oral health and saves time and money in the long run.
How Our SW Portland Dental Office Can Help
At Terwilliger Dental, we prioritize your comfort and the health of your teeth. If you’re noticing any of the signs listed above, our caring and professional team can evaluate your crown and discuss effective replacement options. With advances in modern dental materials, we can craft crowns that are stronger, longer-lasting and more natural-looking than ever before.
Don’t wait until discomfort or damage worsens—being proactive is the key to preserving your beautiful smile and maintaining optimal oral health.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Regularly assessing your dental crowns is essential for preventing complications and preserving your smile. If you suspect your dental crown may need replacing, our team is here to help you every step of the way.
Schedule an appointment today with Dr. Hoang to ensure your oral health is in top condition. We’re committed to providing personalized care in a warm and welcoming environment—because your smile deserves the best.