5 Important Signs Its Time to Replace Your Dental Crown

Sometimes it can be hard to tell when something needs to be replaced. Thankfully, many of our modern devices notify you automatically. Your car may illuminate a warning icon when your tires are low, and your coffee maker may even tell you it’s time to descale. But what about your dental crowns? While these deluxe fillings don’t have an indicator, per se, there are a few important red flags that could mean it’s time for a new one. Here are a few ways you can tell you might need to replace your crown.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a large filling that instead of “filling in” a cavity in your tooth fits like a cap over the entire tooth. They are custom made to replicate the tooth they are repairing in both size, shape, and color. Once they are created, your dentist will cement them to your tooth, which has been cleaned of any damage or decay and shaped to fit the crown.

Typically, dental crowns last up to ten years: however, there have been cases where they’ve lasted longer or shorter than that. How long your restoration will survive often depends on how well you care for it.

Crown Wear Warnings

While you won’t see an indicator light on your crown when it’s time for a new one, there are a few danger signs that could indicate it’s time to replace it. These include:

• Your gumline has receded: If you notice that your gumline is revealing more teeth than usual, or if you see the line where the crown ends and your tooth begins, it is time for a replacement and possibly gum disease treatment.
• You notice swelling or pain: You should not feel any discomfort around your crown. If you do, this is an indication that you could have a cavity, infected tooth, or gum disease forming under or around it and you should be seen by your dentist.
• There is wear and tear on the restoration: Though your crown is made of durable, lifelike materials, it can eventually exhibit signs of wear and tear, indicating that it may be time for a new one.
• The crown is damaged: Damage like chips or cracks can occasionally occur. No matter how old your crown is, if it becomes damaged it is imperative that you see your dentist as soon as possible to fix or replace it.
• The crown is over ten years old: While its age does not automatically mean that your crown needs to be replaced, if it’s 10 years or older, you should have it evaluated by your dentist as it may be nearing the end of its lifespan.

Unfortunately, crowns don’t last forever, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get as much use out of them as possible. It may not always be easy to tell if your crown needs replacement, which is why it’s so important to visit your dentist regularly for biannual exams and cleaning appointments. A dental professional can monitor the condition of your crown while they check your teeth and gums and notify you if your crown needs repair or replacement.

About Our Practice

At Chester County Dental Arts, we believe in “no shame” dentistry, meaning that when you come here, there’s no need to feel embarrassed or nervous about the condition of your smile. If you have older crowns or need a new crown to repair any type of tooth damage, we’re proud to help relieve your pain and restore your beautiful smile without judgement.

To schedule an appointment for crowns, preventive care, or any other treatment, please visit our website or call us today at 610-383-1600.