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A dental crown protects a weak or damaged tooth. It covers and restores its shape and function. However, crowns are not indestructible. Over time, they may crack, chip, or come loose. When this happens, most people wonder: Should you repair or replace a broken dental crown?
The right choice depends on the damage, cost, and long-term benefits. However, this guide can help you as it covers everything.
Why Do Dental Crowns Break In The First Place?
A broken dental crown often results from normal wear and tear. Chewing gradually weakens the crown surface. The pressure can also crack the crown if you grind your teeth (bruxism).
Physical trauma, like biting down on something hard or an accident, can cause sudden damage.
In some cases, crowns break because of poor materials or an improper fit. Material aging also plays a role if you received your crown years ago. Knowing these causes helps you take better care of your crowns.
Warning Signs You Have A Broken Dental Crown
There are clear signs when your dental crown is damaged. You may see visible cracks or chips on the crown’s surface.
You might feel pain or sensitivity in the crowned tooth. A loose crown can also make chewing uncomfortable.
Sometimes, the tooth underneath becomes exposed, causing further discomfort. Discoloration around the crown may suggest decay. If you notice these signs, contact your dentist quickly to prevent additional issues.
Can a Broken Dental Crown Be Repaired?
Yes, under certain conditions, your broken dental crown can be repaired. Minor chips and cracks are sometimes fixable using bonding or dental resin. This is often a cosmetic solution and works well for short-term relief.
Temporary fixes can hold the crown until a permanent solution is available. Your dentist may smooth sharp edges or reattach a loose crown using dental cement.
However, repairs are usually only viable when the damage is minor and the tooth underneath is still healthy.
When You Must Replace a Dental Crown
In some cases, a broken dental crown cannot be saved. If the damage is severe or the tooth underneath has decayed, replacement is necessary. A poor-fitting crown can cause gum inflammation or discomfort, making replacement a better option. Old crowns also wear out and lose their strength over time.
Most crowns last 10–15 years, depending on care. If you keep repairing the same crown, replacement becomes more cost-effective in the long run. But for this, you must see a professional offering Dental Crowns Yorba Linda. They are the ones with comprehensive know-how and can help you with repairs.
What Happens During Repair Or Replacement?
Repairing a broken dental crown is often quick and straightforward. Your dentist can complete it in one visit. They might use composite resin to fix chips or dental cement to reattach a crown. It involves minimal preparation and causes little discomfort.
Replacing the crown takes more time. First, your dentist removes the damaged crown and checks the underlying tooth. Then, they take impressions to craft a new custom crown. You’ll wear a temporary crown for about two weeks. During your second visit, the permanent crown will be cemented.
Smart Tips To Prevent Future Crown Damage
By making a few changes, you can avoid another broken dental crown. If you grind your teeth, wear a nightguard to protect the crown.
Stay away from hard foods like ice, nuts, and hard candy. Sticky foods can also loosen a crown. This practice is a must for all, especially the elderly people who are vulnerable to dental problems.
Practice good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing daily. Lastly, visit your dentist every six months for a check-up. These habits help your crown last longer and stay in great shape.
Repair Or Replace? Make The Right Choice
Should you repair or replace a broken dental crown? Here’s a quick checklist:
- Minor chip? Opt for repair.
- Loose, old, or painful crown? Choose a replacement.
- Frequent issues with the same crown? Go for a new one.
Ultimately, always consult your dentist for the best advice. They’ll examine the crown, check the underlying tooth, and recommend the best action.
If left untreated, a broken dental crown can cause serious issues. Timely repair or replacement keeps your smile healthy and pain-free.
Always act fast when you spot damage. If you’re dealing with Dental crown professionals, call us in Yorba Linda for help. A quick decision today can prevent costly problems tomorrow.
