By Aspen Dental
When do Dental Crowns Need to be Replaced?
Has your dentist told you that you may need to have a crown put in? Don’t worry; crowns are quite common, and many people need them eventually for all sorts of reasons. You may have several questions, like do crowns last forever? Or how can you tell if a crown needs to be replaced? Fortunately, crowns can last a lifetime when they are cared for properly. But accidents and neglect can happen.
You should have your crown replaced if the gum tissue around it has receded too much away from the crown, if the gum tissue has become infected, or if the tooth underneath has become extremely decayed. It should also be replaced if it has been severely damaged, extremely worn down, cracked, if it is loose, or has fallen off the tooth.
Many of these situations can be prevented by properly caring for your teeth and crown. If your gum tissue is beginning to recede or is infected, that most likely means that you don’t floss enough. Reintroducing flossing into your daily routine can save and extend the life of your crown. To stop the crowned tooth from decaying, brush twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste. If your crown is too worn down or is becoming loose, it could be caused by teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. Finding ways to prevent yourself from grinding your teeth, like reducing stress in your life or wearing a mouthguard, can also help your crown last a lifetime.
If you think you may need a crown, or if you are concerned about a crown you already have, contact us at Aspen Dental. We would love to help you.
