A dental crown is an artificial covering of a tooth or implant. They are made of porcelain, and their primary objective is to protect and restore your natural tooth. Dental crowns are usually used on teeth that have suffered from tooth decay, root canal, trauma, or multiple dental fillings. Crowns are often considered the final step when fixing dental complications. They are designed to serve you for about five to 20 years plus.
However, issues can occur for several reasons. For example, a crown that has been poorly installed can cause sensitivity, pain, infections, or other problems. So, according to our dentist in Portland, Oregon, it is important to know common complications associated with dental crowns and how to solve them before getting them.
Tooth Decay
Although dental crowns protect and reserve our natural teeth, there is still the possibility of tooth decay. In addition, improper dental hygiene after getting the crown may lead to plaque accumulation between the crown and the tooth junction. This increases the risk of infections, bacterial growth, and decay.
To prevent this, brush and floss your teeth daily. If you have decay already, see your dentist for a dental filling. The crown will be removed for tooth decay inside the crown and will place a new one after the decayed part is treated.
Bite Problem
For dental crowns in restorative dentistry Portland, we take images and impressions of our patient’s teeth before a fitting. We also evaluate how the crown connects with your teeth and gum during the fitting stage. However, despite these efforts, the crowns may not be perfect and precise as hoped. If your dental crown feels abrasive and unsuitable when you bite, it’s time to schedule an appointment.
Uneven bites caused by dental crowns are an easy fix, including reshaping the existing crown. The dentist may try another fit that will not cause pain and discomfort if necessary.
Sensitivity
After a dental crown procedure, it is not uncommon for one to experience sensitivity in the surrounding teeth. Eating foods or taking beverages that are either cold or hot will affect your tooth sensitivity. However, your dentin could be exposed if you are still experiencing sensitivity after the first week of the procedure. During the crown placement, your teeth’s enamel has to be trimmed for the crown to fit. If the crown hasn’t been properly fitted, a bit of dentin is left exposed at the gum line.
To solve this, immediately schedule an appointment with your dentist. They will ensure the crown has been fitted correctly.
Allergic Reaction
Dental crowns are made from different materials, including porcelain, resin, zirconia, or various metals. In some cases, some people may be allergic to some of these materials. To avoid this, the dentist will ask you if you are allergic to any metals before considering metal-based crowns as options.
However, if you have an allergic reaction, the dentist will remove and replace the crown with an alternative. Visit our dental office near you for more information about the different types of dental crowns available for you.
Gum Irritation or Recession
Dental crowns can irritate the surrounding gum tissues causing inflammation or gum recession. This can cause pain and sensitivity. Fortunately, this can be prevented by following the aftercare tips provided by the dentist.
Maintain a good oral hygiene routine to help your gum remain healthy and prevent them from recession. In addition, to keep the area around the dental crown, you could use a dental flosser.
Damaged Crowns
proper dental oral health and hygiene habits can preserve dental crowns for the longest time. However, accidents or trauma can break, crack, chip or loosen up the crown. Other causes that could damage your dental crown include:
- Bruxism or teeth grinding
- Wear and tear
- Biting hard substances or using your teeth\crown to tear sachets
Although accidents are unavoidable, one can minimize the damage. Avoid chewing or biting chewy and hard substances like nuts, candy, or ice. Do away with bad habits such as putting stress on your teeth, chewing pens, or grinding your teeth. You can also book an appointment with us to replace your damaged dental crown in Portland, Oregon.
Conclusion
Overall practicing good oral hygiene is vital in avoiding dental complications that will interfere with your new dental crown. In addition, pay attention to how your crown fits and feels inside your mouth. If you have pain, discomfort, or sensitivity around your tooth, schedule an appointment with us at Laurelhurst Dentistry. Our dentist will examine your crown and resolve any complications you may be experiencing.