Dental crowns are impressively durable. With proper care, they can last for a long time! However, they do eventually reach the end of their lifespan. At some point, they end up needing to be replaced. Is it time to replace your crown? Dr. Makadia and our team would be happy to help you find out. In the meantime, you can review the signs below that indicate you might need a new restoration:
The Crown Feels Loose
A high-quality crown should fit securely and snugly on your teeth. You should not feel it moving around! If it ever starts to feel loose, book a dental appointment right away. We might be able to securely reattach it, or we might need to provide a completely new crown.
Your Bite Is Uncomfortable
Your crown should work in harmony with your natural bite. If you experience discomfort when you bite down, or the crown just seems like it does not fit in with the rest of your teeth, it might need to be adjusted, repaired, or replaced altogether. Crown that cause an improper bite may damage other healthy teeth or gums.
You Are in Pain
In some cases, bacteria and food particles sneak under a crown and damage the underlying dental structure. This can result in painful infections. If you start to experience discomfort in or around your crowned tooth, you should certainly get it checked out. In addition to a new crown, you may also need restorative treatment for the affected tooth. If not addressed in timely manner, it may result into needing root canal therapy or total loss of the tooth.
There Are Visible Signs of Damage on the Crown
Chips, hairline fractures, and other signs of damage to a crown may mean that its structural integrity is in jeopardy. Such issues are only likely to worsen over time. It may be best to replace the crown before it completely fails.
You Do Not Like the Way Your Crown Looks
Your crown may still be strong and functional, but perhaps it is not aesthetically pleasing. For example, you might have an old metal restoration that clashes with the natural color of your teeth. Or you may have a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown that has developed a dark line at its base. Dr. Makadia can help you upgrade to a beautiful, 100% ceramic crown that blends in seamlessly with your natural smile.
Your Crown Is Getting Old
If your crown was placed more than 10 years ago, it is possible that it is still in great shape. However, there is also a chance that it might be nearing the end of its usefulness. Dr. Makadia can let you know whether it may need to be replaced in the near future.
Crowns are a long-term way to protect damaged teeth, but they do not last forever. Talk to our team to find out if you may need a new one.
You Have Gum or Bone Loss
Red, swollen, or irritated gums at the gumline are signs of infection and should be checked out immediately. If the crown does not sit well at the gumline due to gum/bone loss, bacteria can invade into the tooth structure. It might be a time to get a new crown that fits the current gum/bone level.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Makadia is a highly accomplished dentist who has been serving patients for more than 30 years. Dr. Makadia has lifted thousands of patients’ confidence and smiles by providing limited as well as full mouth cosmetic and crown treatments. If you are looking for natural looking crown(s) designed with attention to the teeth anatomy that provide long-lasting results, we are ready to serve you. Contact our Bohemia, Long Island, office at 631-567-5566.