There’s no doubt that today’s crowns offer a “nearly real” solution for correcting smiles altered by damaged or missing teeth. However, daily wear-and-tear can cause crowns to loosen, crack, or lose their perfect fit.
At Northwest Dental Services & Denture Implant Center in Tacoma and Lakewood, Washington, we specialize in general dentistry, dental implants, and dentures. It’s always been our goal to provide expert care for families, including smile restoration with dental crowns.
Although today’s dental crowns are more durable and natural-looking than ever, knowing when to replace your crown can help protect your smile and avoid future dental problems.
Our team is happy to discuss the benefits of crowns and signs it’s time to replace them.
The crown is the portion of the tooth visible above the gumline. A manufactured dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance.
Crowns are typically used to:
Here at Northwest Dental Services & Denture Implant Center, our convenient, expertly managed on-site lab helps ensure your satisfaction with customized dental crowns that fit your specific needs.
Signs of a replacement-ready crown include:
If you experience pain when biting down or sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, your crown may no longer seal the affected tooth properly. A poor fit can allow bacteria to reach the underlying tooth, leading to decay or infection.
Persistent discomfort is a key indicator that your dental crown needs to be replaced. Don’t ignore sensitivity. Schedule a dental check-up as soon as possible.
Even though crowns are made from strong materials like porcelain or ceramic, they wear over time, just like your natural teeth. This makes them susceptible to cracking and chipping.
Additionally, teeth grinding (bruxism), chewing ice, or biting hard foods can all damage a dental crown. If you notice a chip, crack, or rough edge, it’s essential to see your dentist before the damage worsens.
We also recommend routine dental exams, during which your provider monitors for signs of wear or tiny cracks that may not yet be obvious. Replacing a worn-out crown helps restore your bite.
A loose crown is a serious warning sign that something has gone wrong. It may mean the cement holding it in place has weakened or the tooth structure beneath has changed.
If your crown moves when you chew or feels unstable, contact your dentist right away. A loose crown increases the risk of decay or infection.
Have you noticed a dark line along your gumline or gums pulling away from your crown? This may indicate gum recession or that the edge of your crown is exposed.
Besides affecting your smile’s appearance, this can trap plaque and bacteria. Replacing your crown ensures a more natural look and helps maintain gum health.
Most dental crowns last between 10 and 15 years, depending on the material and your oral hygiene habits. Even if your crown looks fine, we can check for hidden issues during your regular exam.
Replacing an aging crown at the right time can prevent cracks, discomfort, and dental emergencies.
Schedule a visit at Northwest Dental Services & Denture Implant Center today. Please call the office, or reach out online for more information.
