A dental crown, also known as a dental cap, is a dental restoration that covers a tooth or dental implant. Improper placement of a crown can trap plaque under the crown or in cracks, leading to decay. Symptoms of decay under a crown include bleeding while brushing the area and gum inflammation.
How to Tell if You Have Dental Decay Under a Crown?
When dental decay occurs under a crown, common signs include bleeding when brushing or flossing around the area, gum swelling, and inflammation. The affected tooth may also feel sensitive and painful, and visible grey or brown spots may appear at the base of the tooth. A dental x-ray is needed to confirm tooth decay under a crown.
Despite the possibility of dental decay under a crown, the benefits of porcelain dental crowns outweigh the risks. Dental crowns can save problematic teeth from extraction, provided that any decay is detected early.
What Causes Decay Under Dental Crown?
- Neglecting your oral hygiene leads to bacteria build-up.
- Cracked or damaged crowns will allow the entry of bacteria and plaque to the roots of your tooth.
- When plaque is trapped underneath your crown or in the cracks of your teeth.
Knowing the most typical issues with dental crowns will help you take the appropriate precautions to avoid them in the future. Both maintaining good dental hygiene and being aware of whether the crown feels loose are equally crucial.
What Factors Cause Tooth Decay Under Crowns in Seniors?
- Increased xerostomia-producing medication use.
- An increased gingival recession exposed root surfaces.
Possible Signs of Dental Crown Tooth Decay Under Crown
These are a few signs or symptoms of tooth decay beneath a crown that you need to be aware of. The possibility of tooth decay under your crown rises if you have these problems.
Discomfort and Sensitivity
Tooth decay or a new cavity may occur at the border of the tooth and dental crown, resulting in recurring pain and sensitivity in the area. If the cavity is large enough to damage the nerve, a root canal may be necessary.
Grey or Brown Spots in the Affected Area
Brown and grey spots around a dental crown can be a visible warning sign of a possible infection or tooth decay underneath the crown. These spots may resemble mold and should be addressed by a dentist as soon as possible.
Infection
Pain around a tooth with a crown may be a sign of further decay or infection. Severe decay in the form of a cavity or the spread of infection to the pulp and nerves of the tooth may be the cause.
Food Trap
A dental crown that is not properly placed may create gaps where food particles can get trapped. This can make it challenging to maintain good oral hygiene, especially in the area of the crown.
How to Treat Tooth Decay Under Dental Crown?
Treating a cavity under a crown can be difficult and may require a root canal. If the cavity has become infected, your dentist will likely recommend removing the affected tissue from your tooth. After a root canal, you will need another crown placed on your tooth.
What Happens If a Tooth Decays Under a Crown?
It can have an impact on your oral health if there is decay under a crown. As the decay progresses further into the tooth, it can cause dental infections and potentially render the tooth unsalvageable. This can lead to issues such as bad breath and sore gums.
How Do You Prevent Tooth Decay Under a Crown?
To prevent cavities from forming underneath and around your crown, it’s important to clean the area thoroughly after each meal, especially if you have a ceramic crown. Make sure to brush at least twice a day and pay special attention to the edges and margins where the crown attaches to the tooth.
Are you a candidate for dental crown treatment? Don’t waste any time and call Dr. Ronald Ayzin at Laguna Dental Center to schedule an appointment.