A dental crown is designed to protect and strengthen a damaged tooth, but what happens if the crown itself cracks? It’s a common question, and the good news is that depending on the severity of the crack, there are solutions. Here’s what you need to know if you find yourself dealing with a cracked dental crown.
What Causes a Dental Crown to Crack?
Cracks in dental crowns can happen for a variety of reasons, including:
- Normal wear and tear: Crowns, like natural teeth, experience stress from daily chewing and grinding.
- Teeth grinding (bruxism): Constant grinding puts extra pressure on crowns, making them more likely to crack.
- Biting hard foods: Crunching on ice, hard candies, or nuts can damage even the strongest crowns.
- Injury or trauma: A fall or accident can lead to a cracked crown.
- Poor fit or old age: Older crowns may weaken over time, or a poorly fitted crown may be more prone to cracking.
How to Tell if Your Dental Crown is Cracked
Sometimes, a crack in a dental crown is easy to spot, especially if a piece breaks off. But other times, the signs can be more subtle. Look out for these common symptoms:
- Sharp pain or sensitivity when biting down or eating hot or cold foods.
- Visible lines or fractures on the crown’s surface.
- Rough or jagged edges that feel different when you run your tongue over the crown.
- Looseness or wobbling in the crown, which could signal a deeper issue.
Even if you don’t feel pain, a cracked crown can expose the underlying tooth to bacteria, leading to decay or infection. That’s why it’s important to contact your dentist as soon as you notice something’s wrong.
Can a Cracked Dental Crown Be Repaired?
Whether a cracked dental crown can be fixed depends on the size and location of the crack, as well as the material of the crown. Here are some common approaches Dr. Patel may recommend:
- Minor Cracks or Chips: If the crack is small and purely cosmetic (called “craze lines”), Dr. Patel may recommend monitoring it during your regular checkups. Other times, it may be possible to smooth it out or use dental bonding to repair the damage. This is more common with porcelain crowns.
- Moderate Damage: If the crack is more significant but the crown is still intact, a composite resin might be used to seal the crack. However, this is usually a temporary solution.
- Severe Cracks: If the crown is cracked through or has split into pieces, it will likely need to be replaced entirely. This is especially true if the crack affects the structural integrity of the crown or if the underlying tooth is damaged.
What Happens If the Tooth Under the Crown Is Damaged?
Sometimes, a cracked crown is just the tip of the iceberg. If the underlying tooth is also damaged, treatment may be more involved. In these cases, Dr. Patel will perform a thorough exam to assess the tooth’s condition. Treatment options may include:
- Repairing the Tooth: If the tooth has minor damage, it can often be repaired, and a new crown can be placed.
- Root Canal Therapy: If the crack has exposed the tooth’s nerve, a root canal may be needed before placing a new crown.
- Tooth Extraction: In rare cases, if the damage is severe and the tooth can’t be saved, it may need to be extracted and replaced with a dental implant or bridge.
What Should You Do if Your Dental Crown Cracks?
If you notice a cracked crown, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage. Here’s what you should do:
- Call Your Dentist Immediately: Don’t wait for the pain to get worse. Contact Cary Family Dentistry right away to schedule an appointment.
- Avoid Using the Affected Tooth: Try not to chew on the side of your mouth with the cracked crown, especially if it feels loose or painful.
- Keep the Area Clean: Rinse your mouth with warm water to keep the area clean and reduce the risk of infection.
- Use Dental Wax or Temporary Filling (if necessary): If the crack is causing discomfort, over-the-counter dental wax can help protect your tongue and cheek from sharp edges.
Can You Prevent a Dental Crown from Cracking?
While accidents happen, there are some steps you can take to protect your dental crowns from cracking:
- Avoid Hard Foods: Steer clear of chewing ice, hard candies, or other tough foods that can stress your crowns.
- Wear a Night Guard: If you grind your teeth at night, a custom night guard can help protect both your crowns and natural teeth.
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to prevent decay around the crown’s edges.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Routine check-ups with Dr. Patel allow for early detection of any issues with your crown or underlying tooth.
Need Help with a Cracked Crown? Visit Cary Family Dentistry in Cary, IL
If you suspect your dental crown is cracked, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. At Cary Family Dentistry in Cary, IL, Dr. Niraj Patel offers expert care to repair or replace damaged crowns and restore your smile. Whether it’s a small chip or a more serious issue, you’ll receive personalized treatment in a comfortable, friendly environment. Schedule an appointment today and let Dr. Patel help you get your smile back on track!
Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0