Modern dental crowns are strong and resilient, but they will not last forever. In fact, the average lifespan for a dental crown is between five and 15 years. It is important to have your crown assessed routinely to ensure you are not at risk for further problems.

Here, our team at Advanced Dental Center in Plano, TX explores five signs that indicate your dental crowns need to be replaced.

#1: A Change in Your Bite

After the initial placement of your dental crown, it should fit and your bite should feel normal. If your bite feels “off” or uneven, it could indicate something has changed.

Bite forces should be evenly distributed for proper function. Therefore, if you notice that your teeth fit together differently, it is important to call your dentist for an assessment. This issue can often be treated with a simple occlusal adjustment, but crown replacement could be necessary in some instances.

#2: Pain or Discomfort

A dental crown protects the underlying tooth structure. If the restoration becomes compromised due to breakage or other types of damage, discomfort will typically develop. It is important to address this problem as soon as possible, as a fractured crown can lead to deep dental decay or infection.

In some cases, the crown can be repaired. However, depending on the amount of damage, replacement may be required.

#3: Your Crown Is Old

Crowns last five to 15 years on average. For this reason, we recommend having your crown evaluated at least twice a year to ensure it is still functioning properly. It is also important to keep a close eye on your crown between visits. If you notice any changes, call your dentist.

If you suffer from bruxism (clenching or grinding), you are at a higher risk for damage and may need to replace your crown more often. In these cases, we recommend a custom oral appliance to protect your teeth and restorations.

#4: Decay

Plaque and can accumulate around a crown. As a result, acid produced by oral bacteria can erode the underlying teeth roots. This can result in decay.

Left unchecked, the decay can move deeper, into the pulp of the tooth. If this occurs, root canal therapy will be necessary to resolve the issue and a new crown will be required.

#5: Gum Recession

The same oral bacteria that can result in decay can also cause gum disease. One of the leading symptoms of gum disease is recession. If you notice that the gums around your restored tooth are beginning to pull away from the teeth roots, schedule an appointment with your dentist.

In many cases, the crown will not need to be replaced. However, periodontal treatments may be necessary to restore oral health.

Contact Us to Learn More

If you suspect your dental crown may need to be replaced, schedule a consultation at Advanced Dental Center. Contact us online anytime or call our office at (972) 597-0471.