Restorative dentistry utilizes materials that are built to last, but like anything, over time they will begin to wear down and need to be replaced. Dental crowns are no different. If you have one or more crowns on your teeth, it’s important to be aware of when that time may be approaching so that you don’t end up with more severe dental issues. Your Medford dentist has a list of tell-tale signs you can look for that may be signaling the need for a crown to be replaced.
How To Know When It’s Time To Replace Your Dental Crown
The best part about restorative dentistry is that its purpose is to help rehabilitate your oral functionality so that you no longer have to focus on previous problems. However, it’s important not to let it go completely ignored. While dental crowns are built to last over a decade, they will eventually need to be replaced. In order to avoid an unexpected visit to the emergency dentist, here are some signs to look for that can help you know if it’s time to talk to your dentist about having your crowns replaced:
Receding Gums
Bacteria in the mouth are more likely to thrive around a tooth with a crown as opposed to your other natural teeth. This can eventually start causing your gums to recede around that tooth, eventually spreading to the surrounding gums. Pay close attention to the gums around the crown, and be sure to call your dentist if you notice anything peculiar such as swelling, soreness, or discoloration.
Wear and Tear
Your teeth work extremely hard for you every day, and over time, you will likely begin to notice wear and tear happening to your dental crowns. This might look like a loss of material on the crown, and there are other issues, such as teeth-grinding that can cause the crown to wear down faster. It’s important to let your dentist inspect the crown and determine whether or not it needs to be replaced and what treatment options may be necessary.
Damage
This one might seem obvious, but you would be surprised how many people just deal with damage to their crowns to save money or to avoid going to the dentist due to dental anxiety. If your crown cracks or breaks, it is extremely important to see your dentist as soon as possible to protect the remainder of the tooth from infection and decay. Plus, you’re likely to experience pain with a damaged crown, as the nerves in your natural tooth will be exposed.
Age
Dental crowns are built to last, but not for a lifetime. Of course, the way you care for your crowns will directly affect their longevity. It is still recommended, even if you’ve properly maintenanced them, to have your dentist check them if they are ten years or older. Your dentist is an expert with a trained eye and they can tell whether or not the crown will last much longer.
Taking care of your crowns starts with knowing how to make them last. Your dentist can share tips with you to increase their lifetime and how to know when it’s time for a replacement.
About the Practice
If you want the highest caliber of restorative dentistry, look no further than the private practice of Dr. Anthony Giamberardino in Medford. He is highly trained and experienced when it comes to dental crown treatment and has even worked with the Harvard Community Health Plan. He values building long-last relationships with his patients and making sure they know they are in the best of hands. Are you ready to schedule your next dental checkup? Request an appointment online or call (781) 396-3800.