Dental crowns are a common solution for restoring damaged, decayed, or weakened teeth, offering both functional and aesthetic benefits. Made from durable materials like porcelain, metal, or zirconia, crowns can last for many years. However, while dental crowns are generally safe and effective, there are certain risks and dangers of dental crowns that patients should be aware of. In this article, we’ll cover some of the most common issues associated with crowns, potential risks, and what to do if a crown becomes damaged or falls out.
Common Issues with Dental Crowns
Before diving into the potential dangers, it’s helpful to understand some of the common issues that can occur with dental crowns. While these problems are not necessarily dangerous, they can lead to discomfort, increased costs, or the need for additional dental work.
Chipping or Cracking: Crowns, especially porcelain ones, can sometimes chip or crack, particularly if subjected to hard foods or habits like teeth grinding.
Loosening: Over time, dental crowns can become loose due to wear, cement degradation, or changes in the underlying tooth structure.
Sensitivity: It’s not uncommon for patients to experience sensitivity after getting a crown, especially to hot or cold temperatures. This can occur if the tooth nerve was affected during the crown procedure or if the crown doesn’t fit perfectly.
Understanding these common issues can help patients recognize when a crown might need attention or replacement.
Potential Dangers of Dental Crowns
While dental crowns are generally safe, certain risks can arise if they’re not well-maintained or if complications occur. Here are some potential dangers to be aware of:
Tooth Decay Under the Crown
- Risk: One of the most serious dangers of dental crowns is the risk of tooth decay developing under the crown. This can happen if the crown doesn’t fit properly or if bacteria accumulate at the margin (where the crown meets the natural tooth).
- Prevention: Good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing around the crown, is essential for preventing decay. Regular dental check-ups also help catch any issues early on.
Gum Irritation and Recession
- Risk: Ill-fitting crowns or crowns placed too close to the gum line can cause irritation, inflammation, and even gum recession over time. This can expose the root of the tooth, leading to sensitivity and an increased risk of decay.
- Prevention: Proper placement and regular dental visits can help ensure that the crown doesn’t cause gum issues. Patients should also monitor their gums for any signs of irritation or redness around the crown.
Allergic Reactions to Crown Material
- Risk: While rare, some patients may experience allergic reactions to materials used in crowns, particularly metal alloys. Symptoms can include gum irritation, swelling, or mild allergic reactions.
- Prevention: Patients with known metal allergies should discuss alternative materials with their dentist, such as ceramic or zirconia crowns.
Cracking and Chipping Risks
- Risk: Porcelain crowns are prone to cracking and chipping, especially when exposed to hard foods or bruxism (teeth grinding). Once a crown is chipped or cracked, it may need repair or replacement to maintain function and aesthetics.
- Prevention: Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, hard candies, or pens, and consider wearing a night guard if you grind your teeth.
What Happens if a Crown Falls Out?
A loose or fallen crown can be alarming, but it’s not uncommon. When a crown falls out, it’s essential to handle the situation correctly to prevent further damage to the tooth.
Why Does a Crown Fall Out?
- Crowns can become dislodged due to wear and tear, decay of the underlying tooth, or deterioration of the crown glue (dental cement) used to secure the crown. In some cases, the crown might come loose if it wasn’t fitted properly during the initial procedure.
Emergency Steps if a Crown Falls Out
- Keep the Crown Safe: If possible, locate the crown and keep it in a safe place. Avoid using the affected tooth for chewing until you can see a dentist.
- Temporary Fixes: Over-the-counter dental cement (available at most pharmacies) can temporarily reattach the crown if needed. However, this should only be used as a short-term solution until a dentist can reattach it professionally.
Using Crown Glue to Reattach the Crown
- Crown glue, or dental cement, is the adhesive used by dentists to secure crowns to the natural tooth. A professional reattachment using dental cement can restore the crown’s function and stability, but it’s crucial to see a dentist as soon as possible to prevent potential complications.
How Much Does It Cost to Reattach a Crown?
The cost to reattach a crown can vary based on factors like the crown material, the extent of any damage, and the dentist’s fees. Here’s a general cost breakdown:
- Crown Reattachment: If the crown and underlying tooth are in good condition, a reattachment procedure using new dental cement typically costs between $100 and $300.
- Additional Repair or Replacement: If the crown is damaged or if decay is present on the tooth, further treatment or a complete replacement may be necessary, increasing the cost to between $800 and $3,000.
Preventing Problems with Dental Crowns
While some issues with crowns are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to prolong their lifespan and minimize potential risks:
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly, especially around the crown, to prevent plaque buildup and decay.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Hard foods like nuts, hard candies, and ice can increase the risk of cracks and chips in crowns, especially porcelain ones.
- Regular Dental Check-Ups: Routine dental visits allow your dentist to monitor the condition of your crown and catch any issues early on.
- Use a Mouthguard if You Grind Your Teeth: Bruxism (teeth grinding) can wear down crowns and lead to chips or cracks. Wearing a night guard can protect your crowns and natural teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dental crowns cause health problems?
While dental crowns are safe for most people, improper fitting, poor hygiene, or material allergies can lead to issues. It’s essential to choose a qualified dentist and maintain proper care to minimize these risks.What should you do if your crown hurts?
Pain around a crown could be due to a variety of factors, including gum irritation, decay under the crown, or an ill-fitting crown. If you experience pain, schedule a dental visit to diagnose and address the issue.How often do crowns need to be replaced?
Most dental crowns last between 10-15 years, though some can last longer with good care. Regular check-ups can help determine when a crown needs replacement.
Conclusion
While dental crowns are an effective solution for restoring damaged teeth, it’s important to understand the potential dangers of dental crowns and how to prevent common issues. From maintaining good oral hygiene to avoiding hard foods, taking care of your crowns can extend their lifespan and reduce the risk of complications. If you experience any issues with your crown, consult with your dentist promptly to ensure your dental health is well-maintained.
I was a little hesitant to come here after reading some reviews on Yelp but decided to give it a try after being reassured by Millie (who is really sweet and pleasant) over the phone, and I'm really happy I did. The Clinic is beautiful, modern, and clean, something that really makes a difference for me going to the Turkey. They were very prompt.
Happy Patients
Curious About Patient Experiences?
+100,000 Happy Clients and Counting in +80 Countries
Contact Us
Just contact us, then experience the benefits of Prof Clinic.
We will arrange everything for you.
