How Common is Decay Under a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns are a widely known dental treatment used to restore damaged teeth and improve oral health. However, despite their durability, decay can still occur beneath a dental crown, posing a risk to the tooth’s health and longevity. This guide talks about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and prevention strategies for decay under dental crowns.

Understanding Dental Crown Decay

Dental crown decay refers to the deterioration of tooth structure beneath a dental crown, often caused by a bacterial infection or recurrent decay. It compromises the integrity of the crown and underlying tooth, leading to various symptoms like tooth sensitivity, pain, and discoloration.

What Causes Decay Under a Dental Crown?

Decay under a dental crown can be caused by several factors, such as:

• Bruxism: Habitual teeth grinding or clenching can damage the crown and compromise its seal, facilitating decay.
• Pre-existing tooth decay: If the tooth beneath the crown had decay before the crown placement, it may continue to progress underneath.
• Gum recession: Receding gums expose the vulnerable root surface of the tooth, increasing the risk of decay under the crown.
• Dry mouth: Reduced saliva flow can create an environment conducive to bacterial growth and decay.

How Can You Identify Decay Beneath a Crown?

Identifying decay beneath a dental crown can be challenging, but some signs and symptoms may indicate a problem, such as:

• Gum Swelling or Redness: Inflammation or irritation of the gums around the crown may indicate an underlying issue, including decay.
• Foul Taste or Odor: An unpleasant taste or odor around the crown area, particularly when eating or brushing, may signal decay and bacterial activity.
• Difficulty Chewing: Difficulty or discomfort while chewing, particularly in the area of the crowned tooth, may suggest decay beneath the crown, affecting its functionality.

How Long Does It Take for Decay to Develop Under a Dental Crown?

Decay under a dental crown can develop at varying speeds depending on several factors, such as:

• Quality of Dental Work: The quality of the crown placement and the materials used can affect its longevity and susceptibility to decay.
• Oral Health Conditions: Existing oral health issues such as gum disease or tooth grinding can accelerate decay under the crown.
• Age of the Crown: Older crowns may be more prone to decay as they age, especially if they have worn down or become damaged over time.

Regular dental check-ups with a specialist in crowns for teeth can help detect and address decay promptly.

How is Decay Under a Crown Diagnosed?

Diagnosing decay under a dental crown typically involves a thorough dental examination, including visual inspection, dental X-rays, and percussion testing. As part of the visual examination, your dentist in Westminster will inspect the crown and adjacent teeth for indications of decay or injury. Dental X-rays can reveal any decay or damage beneath the crown that may not be visible to the naked eye. Percussion testing involves gently tapping on the tooth to assess its sensitivity and determine if there is any underlying decay or infection.

What Treatment Options Are Available for Decay Under a Crown?

Treatment for decay under a dental crown depends on the extent of the decay and the condition of the tooth. Some common treatment options include crown replacement, root canal therapy, and tooth extraction. If the decay is extensive or if the crown is damaged, it may need to be removed and replaced with a new crown. If the decay has reached the inner tooth layers, root canal therapy may be mandatory to remove the infected tissue and preserve the tooth’s health. In severe cases of decay or damage, the tooth may need to be extracted to prevent further complications. If you are experiencing issues, consider seeking dental crown treatments near you for prompt care and restoration of your oral health.

Can Decay Under a Crown Be Prevented?

While decay under a tooth crown cannot always be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. Maintaining adequate oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly can help eradicate plaque and bacteria from around the crown margins. Attending regular dental check-ups allows your dentist to monitor the health of your crowns and detect any issues early on.

Conclusion

Decay under a dental crown is a common issue that can compromise the health and integrity of your teeth. By comprehending the reasons, signs, diagnoses, treatment choices, and preventive measures for decay beneath dental crowns, you can proactively safeguard your oral health and maintain your smile for the long term.

Concerned About Decay Under Your Crown? Schedule Your Appointment Today

Are you experiencing discomfort or suspect decay under your dental crown? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Schedule an appointment with Sunrise Smiles OC – Westminster today to assess and address any concerns about dental crown decay. Your smile deserves the best care possible!