Dental crowns are quite durable and can often last for many years with the right maintenance. That said, at some point, your dental crown will reach the end of its lifespan and need to be replaced. How will you be able to tell when that time comes? Below are 4 warning signs that can potentially indicate that you will need to get a new dental crown in the near future.
1. The Crown Has Been Visibly Damaged
While dental crowns are designed to withstand the forces of biting and chewing, they are not indestructible. As time passes, they can potentially become chipped or cracked, especially if you use them to bite down on particularly hard foods. It may be possible to simply repair minor damage, but if the issue is severe enough, your dentist may determine that a new crown is needed.
2. You Have Had Your Crown for a Very Long Time
An older dental crown may need to be replaced even if there aren’t any obvious signs of damage. Your eating habits, the material that the crown is made of, and whether you grind your teeth are all factors that could affect the longevity of your restoration.
Generally speaking, if your dental crown is over 10 years old, it may be time to look into having it replaced. Note that some crowns can last 15 years or even longer; nevertheless, you should continue visiting your dentist regularly so that they can keep an eye on your restoration and ensure that it’s still in good condition.
3. There are Cosmetic Issues With Your Crown
A dental crown made out of natural-looking materials can enhance the appearance of your smile. Over time, though, stains and discolored spots can appear on the crown, causing it to stand out for the wrong reasons. Unfortunately, a dental crown can’t be whitened the same way that regular teeth can. Thus, if you’re unhappy with the way that your crown looks, your only option will be to have it replaced.
4. Your Bite Feels Uneven
Ideally, your dental crown should be personalized so that it works with your other teeth to maintain a harmonious bite. But if something happens to the crown, it could cause your bite to feel uneven. Your dentist can confirm whether your crown is contributing to your bite problems and determine whether replacing it is necessary.
In general, if you have any concerns about your crown at all, your first move should be to call your dentist to schedule an appointment. The sooner you have an expert take a look at your restoration, the sooner you can determine whether replacing it is truly necessary.
About the Practice
Here at Advanced Dental Treatment Center, we provide Greenfield patients with high-quality dental care that focuses on comfort and customer service. We can rebuild, strengthen, and protect damaged or weakened teeth with fully customized dental crowns. If you would like to schedule a consultation at Advanced Dental Treatment Center, visit our website or call (414) 209-7465.