By Maylands Dental Centre 
Sometimes, even the most effective dental treatment can cause problems. Like other restorations, dental crowns are made to protect and improve the appearance of teeth. However, they can also have their own challenges, ranging from mild tooth discomfort to requiring additional care.
Learning about the possible complications of a dental crown procedure can make all the difference. Understanding the basics of dealing with these problems can make unexpected events easier to handle.
Stay with us as we break down the crucial factors you need to know to keep your dental crowns in good condition. The information that follows will not only help you but may also make your experience with dental crown treatment a lot easier.
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- Summary of the Content:
- Understanding Dental Crown Complications
- Common Complications with Dental Crowns
- Identifying Early Signs of Crown Problems
- Managing Sensitivity and Discomfort After Crown Placement
- Achieving Proper Fit and Comfort
- Preventive Measures for Crown Care
- When to Seek Professional Help
- Final Thoughts
Summary of the Content:
- Dental crowns are a common dental treatment that can provide protection and restoration for teeth, although, sometimes, they may result in complications.
- Issues in crowns can include loosening or falling out, extensive tooth decay, crown cracks or chips, and poor fit. It can also include allergic reactions to crown materials, gum problems, and aesthetic concerns.
- Routine dental check-ups are important for detecting potential dental crown issues at an early stage. Meanwhile, gentle oral hygiene practices are recommended for managing dental crown discomfort.
- Managing tooth sensitivity and discomfort involves avoiding extreme temperatures, eating soft foods, and maintaining good oral hygiene practices.
- Dental crown maintenance includes regular check-ups, brushing and flossing daily, avoiding hard foods, and using mouthguards if needed.
- Professional help should be sought for persistent pain, signs of infection, damaged crowns, or if the crown affects normal chewing or biting.
Understanding Dental Crown Complications
Dental crowns are pivotal in maintaining the aesthetics of our smiles and the functionality of our bites. They offer substantial benefits to patients with damaged or decayed teeth. By covering and reinforcing teeth, crowns restore their shape and enhance their strength. Nonetheless, despite their design and protective intent, custom-made crowns are not immune to complications.
These complications often stem not from the crowns themselves but from the surrounding oral environment and how they are maintained. Understanding these potential challenges and knowing how to address them promptly can reduce the risk of complications, allowing you to maximise your dental crown lifespan.
Common Complications with Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are commonly used to restore the appearance and function of damaged teeth. However, there are several issues that can sometimes arise with dental crowns. Here’s a rundown of the most common dental crown complications:
- Dental Crown Chips or Cracks:
Crowns are tough, but eating hard food or chewing on ice can crack or chip them, just like natural teeth. - Poor Fit of Crown:
If a crown doesn’t fit right, it can result in discomfort or even affect how you bite and chew. - Extensive Decay Under the Crown:
If bacteria sneak under the crown, they can cause decay in the remaining part of the tooth. This can cause pain and, without treatment, lead to abscess formation. - Crown Loosening:
Sometimes, the cement that holds the crown in place can wash out, causing the crown to become loose. This can also make the tooth susceptible to decay and infection. - Crown Falling Out:
It’s rare but possible for an entire crown to come off completely. This may be due to the adhesive that no longer holds the crown in place or severe decay or breakdown of the underlying tooth structure. - Allergic Reaction:
Though rare, some people might react to the dental crown materials used in their crowns. If this happens, check for alternative crown material options. - Gum Recession or Inflammation:
If not cleaned well, the area around a new crown can become inflamed and lead to periodontal disease, which causes the gums to recede and the tooth roots to be exposed. - Aesthetic Issues:
A crown might not seamlessly match the rest of your teeth in colour or shape, resulting in cosmetic concerns. - Temporary Tooth Sensitivity or Pain:
It is common to experience hot and cold sensitivity or pain after receiving a dental crown. Patients experiencing pain can inquire with a dental professional about over-the-counter pain relievers for comfort.
Being aware of these issues can assist in detecting any changes in your dental crown and addressing them quickly. With proper care and attention, your crowns can continue to be a valuable part of your brand-new smile for years to come.
Identifying Early Signs of Crown Problems
Catching a problem early can make all the difference, especially when it comes to the health of your dental crowns. Knowing the early signs of dental crown issues is key. Here’s what to look out for:
- Feeling a Wiggle:
Crown movement, even a tiny bit, is a sign of an ill-fitting crown. - An Unexpected Gap:
Notice if food gets caught where it didn’t before, indicating a gap or poor fit. - Visible Damage:
Cracks or chips in your crown can sometimes be seen just by looking closely. - Discomfort or Pain:
Any severe discomfort or pain around your crowned tooth should not be ignored. - Sensitivity to Hot and Cold Temperatures:
If hot or cold food items suddenly cause discomfort or if you experience long-term temperature sensitivity, have your crown checked immediately. - Gums Pulling Back:
Receding gums around your crown could indicate an issue needing attention. - Change in Colour:
If the gums around your crown change colour, it might be a sign of inflammation or other problems. - Odd Taste or Smell:
An unusual taste or smell could indicate decay under the crown.
Detecting issues with a dental crown in a timely manner can help manage them effectively. Paying careful attention to these signs can conserve your time and even money in the long run.
Managing Sensitivity and Discomfort After Crown Placement
It’s common to experience discomfort and sensitivity after a dental crown placement procedure, but it’s usually temporary. Here are some tips to help you manage these sensations while you adjust:
- Go Easy on Extreme Temperatures and Sugary Foods:
Avoid very hot or cold foods and drinks if they make your teeth sensitive. In some cases, sugary foods can also trigger discomfort. - Stick to Soft Foods:
If your mouth is feeling tender, eat soft foods that require minimal chewing. - Chew on the Other Side:
Give the crowned tooth a break by chewing on the opposite side of your mouth. - Keep it Clean:
Maintain good oral hygiene habits, but be gentle around the new crown. Daily cleaning habits using soft-bristled brushes and anti-sensitivity toothpaste can help. - Saltwater Rinses:
Warm saltwater rinses can be effective in managing dental crown discomfort and keeping the area clean. - Avoid Sticky and Hard Foods:
Caramel, taffy, hard candies, and even ice can put undue stress on dental crowns, possibly resulting in damage or displacement. It’s also wise to avoid crunchy foods like popcorn kernels and nuts, which can cause cracks or chips on the crown. - Use a NightGuard:
If you grind your teeth at night, consider using a nightguard to protect your crown and reduce sensitivity. - Be Patient:
Remember, it might take a little time for you to adjust to your new dental restoration.
Navigating the first few days after getting a crown can be challenging. But by following these simple care tips, you’ll likely see a decrease in sensitivity and discomfort. If managing dental crown discomfort at home doesn’t help, consult your dentist.
Achieving Proper Fit and Comfort
The fit of your dental crown is crucial for both comfort and function. Here are some steps to help your dental crown fit properly:
- Speak Up During Fitting:
If something feels off during the fitting, don’t hesitate to let your dentist know. It’s easier to make adjustments before the crown is cemented. - Give It Time:
Allow a short period for adjustment. Your mouth might just need a few days to get used to the new dental restoration. - Check Your Bite:
A crooked bite or hitting a crowned tooth first when chewing may indicate the need for a visit to the dentist for check-ups and adjustments. - Monitor for Discomfort:
If you feel persistent discomfort or pain around the crowned tooth, have it checked by a dentist immediately. This is important to rule out dental crown issues like infection or nerve damage. - Look for Gum Changes:
If the gums around your crown margin start to recede or swell, it could be a sign that the fit isn’t quite right. - Observe for Looseness:
A crown that feels loose or wobbly is a clear indication that a dental clinic visit is necessary.
Achieving the proper fit of your dental crown is a team effort between you and your dentist. Patients should report any dental crown issues to their dentist immediately. A well-fitted crown not only feels better but also lasts longer, keeping your beautiful smile bright and functional.
Preventive Measures for Crown Care
Maintaining the health of your dental crowns is crucial for the longevity of your restoration and overall oral health. Here are some preventive measures you can take to care for your dental crowns:
- Regular Dental Check-Ups:
Regular visits to your dentist will allow them to catch any issues early on. This also gives you an opportunity to schedule professional cleaning. - Brush and Floss Daily:
It is crucial to keep the area around your crown clean. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gently floss around the crown to prevent plaque build-up and reduce the risk of tooth decay and active gum disease. - Use Fluoride Rinse:
Oral hygiene products like fluoride mouth can help strengthen the adjacent teeth, offering added protection against dental decay. - Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods:
Dental crown maintenance includes avoiding foods that can cause damage. Hard candies or sticky foods like taffy can cause crown dislodgement. Ask your dentist for dietary advice. - Wear a Mouthguard:
If you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard can protect your crown from unnecessary pressure. - Avoid Chewing on Non-Food Items:
Biting nails or chewing on pens can also put your crown at risk. It’s a habit worth breaking. - Monitor Crown Fit and Comfort:
Pay attention to how your crown feels. If something changes, it might be time for a check-up.
Taking care of your crowns is just as important as taking care of your natural teeth. By incorporating these simple dental hygiene practices into your daily routine, you can reduce the risk of dental crown complications.
When to Seek Professional Help
Despite our efforts to take care of our dental crowns, professional intervention is still needed. Knowing when to reach out to your dentist can prevent minor dental issues from becoming major dental crown complications. Here are a few signs that it’s time to seek professional help:
- Severe Pain or Discomfort:
If discomfort around your crown doesn’t improve or worsens, consult your dentist immediately. - Shifted or Loose Crown:
A crown that feels loose or seems to have shifted position requires immediate dental attention to avoid further damage. - Signs of Infection:
Swelling, excessive redness, or pus around the crown area are signs of infection that need prompt treatment. - Chipped or Cracked Crown:
If you notice any damage, it’s time for a dental visit to assess whether restoration or crown replacement is necessary. - Difficulty Chewing or Biting:
Changes in how you chew or bite could indicate that the crown’s fit has changed and needs adjustment. - Gum Recession:
If the gum tissues around the crowned tooth begin to pull back, seek a dentist for advice on proper treatment.
Staying vigilant and recognising when to get help can make a big difference in the health and longevity of your dental crowns. Remember, your dentist is your partner in maintaining your overall oral health. So, if you notice anything out of the ordinary, don’t hesitate to make that call.
Final Thoughts
Dental crown care is crucial for maintaining a healthy smile. We’ve tackled the essentials, from understanding potential complications to taking proactive steps in dental crown maintenance.
At Maylands Dental Centre, we’re here to guide you through every step of your dental health journey. If you have dental concerns about your crowns, we invite you to reach out. Our team of experienced dentists is ready to support you with professional advice and personalised care.
To schedule a dental appointment, please call Maylands Dental Centre or visit our website. Let us help you maintain that confident, radiant smile.
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