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Do Crowns Get Cavities?

Dental crowns are a game-changer in modern dentistry, providing a powerful solution to protect and restore damaged teeth.

Crafted from synthetic materials like ceramic, porcelain, or metal, these dental marvels act as a protective cap, beautifully concealing the visible part of the tooth above the gum line. Not only do they bring back the tooth’s shape, size, and strength, but they also enhance its aesthetic appeal, giving you a smile that dazzles!

But here’s the burning question: “Can dental crowns get cavities?” It’s a real concern, especially if you already have or are planning to get dental crowns.

In this exciting blog post, we’ll dive deep into this topic, revealing all the juicy details backed by cutting-edge research and expert opinions. So, stick around as we uncover the truth about dental crowns and cavities!

Understanding Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are like custom-made “caps” that fit snugly over your tooth, from the gum line and beyond. They not only restore the tooth’s shape and size, but also provide a protective shield, preventing any further damage while enhancing its overall appearance.

Dentists often recommend dental crowns to fix issues like broken or worn-down teeth, weakened teeth due to decay, large fillings, or even to cover a dental implant. It’s like a superhero cape for your tooth!

There are several types of dental crowns, categorized based on the materials they are made from:

  • Ceramic Crowns: These are typically used for restoring front teeth due to their ability to blend with the natural tooth color.
  • Porcelain-fused-to-metal Crowns: These crowns are exceptionally durable due to their connection to a metal structure, offering a bond stronger than regular porcelain.
  • Gold Alloys Crowns: A mix of gold, copper, and other metals, these crowns provide a solid bond to the tooth, do not fracture, and do not wear away the tooth itself.
  • Base Metal Alloys Crowns: Made up of non-noble metals, these crowns are highly resistant to corrosion and require the least amount of healthy tooth removal before fitting.

Getting a dental crown usually takes two trips to the dentist. Rest assured, it’s worth it for that sparkling and healthy smile!

1. During the initial visit, we will carefully examines and preps the tooth that’s in need of a crown. Our team might even snap some X-rays to assess the roots and the surrounding bone. And if there’s extensive decay or a potential infection lurking, a root canal treatment might be on the cards. It’s all about ensuring your pearly whites get the royal treatment they deserve!
2. Next, we will anesthetize the tooth and gum tissue and file down the tooth to make room for the crown.
3. Once the tooth is expertly reshaped, an impression is meticulously crafted to ensure a flawless fit and perfect bite. These precise impressions are then sent off to a dental lab, where skilled experts meticulously create the crown, bringing your smile to life.
4. In the meantime, a temporary crown is snugly fitted, patiently awaiting the grand arrival of its permanent counterpart.
5. On the second visit, we bid farewell to the temporary crown and welcome the new one. It’s time for the grand finale as we carefully position and cement the crown onto your prepared tooth, completing the transformation.

Dental crowns – the dependable fix for a range of dental concerns. But do you know their ins and outs? Discover their structure, types, and the process involved. Let’s dive in!

Do Dental Crowns Get Cavities?

When it comes to the question, “Do dental crowns get cavities?” the answer is a resounding no! Dental crowns are made from materials like ceramic, porcelain, or metal alloys, which are anything but cavity-prone.

Unlike natural tooth enamel, these synthetic materials lack the porous structure that allows bacteria to wreak havoc. So rest assured, your dental crowns are cavity-proof superheroes!

Did you know that even though dental crowns are immune to cavities, the tooth structure underneath and around them can still be vulnerable to decay? It’s true! If the sealant between your crown and tooth wears down or there are gaps, pesky bacteria can sneak in and wreak havoc.

And let’s not forget about the tooth’s root, which isn’t protected by the crown and can also fall victim to decay if neglected. So, it’s crucial to maintain excellent oral hygiene, even with those shiny dental crowns.

Consequences of Decay under a Crown

Decay lurking beneath a dental crown can bring forth a host of unwelcome consequences. Picture this: discomfort and pain when you bite into a scrumptious meal or sip on a refreshing beverage.

But that’s not all! If neglected, the decay could advance, paving the way for more serious troubles like infection or abscess. In rare instances, it might even call for a root canal or, brace yourself, the extraction of the tooth.

Signs of Decay under a Crown

Detecting decay under a crown early is absolutely crucial in order to prevent further damage. Keep an eye out for these telltale signs of decay lurking beneath a crown:

  • Pain or discomfort, mainly when eating or drinking hot or cold items.
  • Sensitivity to sweet foods.
  • Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth.
  • Swelling or redness in the gums around the crowned tooth.
  • Visible darkening or black spots on the tooth.

If you spot any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to promptly book an appointment with Plaistow Dental. We possess the expertise to diagnose the issue and offer suitable treatment options, ensuring your oral health stays in top shape!

While dental crowns work wonders in safeguarding and restoring damaged teeth, it’s important to remember that the underlying tooth structure can still be prone to decay. That’s why maintaining stellar oral hygiene habits and keeping up with regular dental check-ups are crucial. By doing so, you’ll ensure the long-lasting endurance of your dental crowns and promote overall oral health.

Preventing Decay Under Dental Crowns

Even with dental crowns, prioritizing good oral hygiene is crucial. While the crown itself may be resistant to decay, the underlying tooth structure and the surrounding area can still be at risk.

Importance of Good Oral Hygiene

Ensuring impeccable oral hygiene is the ultimate defense against decay waiting beneath a dental crown. After every meal, diligently cleanse the area, particularly if pesky food particles cling to the crown. By doing so, you thwart the formation of plaque where the crown meets the gum line, averting any lurking gaps and potential decay. Your radiant smile will thank you!

Daily Oral Care Tips for Those with Dental Crowns

  • Brushing: Brush your teeth twice daily for at least two minutes, focusing particularly along the gum lines and around the edges of the crown where it meets the gum.
  • Flossing: Floss once every night before bed to remove stuck-on food particles.
  • Use of mouthwash: Using mouthwash can help kill bacteria in the mouth and help maintain oral hygiene.

Role of Regular Dental Visits

Regular dental check-ups play a vital role in keeping an eye on the condition of dental crowns and catching any potential issues before they escalate. An improperly fitted crown can serve as a breeding ground for bacteria, paving the way for tooth decay and related troubles.

By regularly examining the fit of the crown, we can make necessary adjustments and ensure optimal oral health. Plus, we offer professional cleanings to banish any plaque or tartar that may have taken up residence around the crown.

What to Do if You Suspect Decay Under a Crown

If you suspect decay lurking beneath a dental crown, swift action is crucial to thwart further damage and complications. Brace yourself for the steps you need to take:

  • Identify Symptoms: The first step involves recognizing the signs of decay under a crown, such as sensitivity, discomfort or pain, bad breath, or visible dark spots on the tooth.
  • Contact Your Dentist: If you come across these symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist right away. Make sure to keep up with your scheduled check-up as well. Delaying could give decay a chance to advance, resulting in more serious dental troubles.
  • Schedule an Appointment: Book an appointment for a thorough examination. Your dentist will employ X-rays or other advanced diagnostic tools to delve into the tooth’s condition beneath the crown.
  • Follow Treatment Recommendations: Depending on the extent of the decay, your dentist may recommend various treatments. These can range from a simple filling at the base of the crown, if the decay is minor, to replacement of the old crown after removal of the decay. A root canal treatment or even extraction might be required in severe cases.

Importance of Contacting Your Dentist Immediately

Immediate contact with your dentist is vital when you suspect decay under a dental crown. Early detection and intervention can prevent the decay from spreading and causing further damage. It can also save you from more invasive and costly procedures in the future.

Process of Replacing a Dental Crown Due to Underlying Decay

The procedure for replacing a dental crown due to decay usually involves several steps:

1. Removal of the Old Crown: We remove the existing dental crown. This process requires a high-speed rotary instrument to cut and section the crown. An old crown can rarely be saved or reused, especially when decay is involved.
2. Tooth Preparation: Once the crown is removed, our team will clean the tooth and remove any decay. The tooth is then prepared for the new crown, which may involve reshaping or building up the tooth if significant decay has occurred.
3. Impression and Temporary Crown: Your tooth gets a custom impression to create the brand-new crown. While you wait for the permanent one, a temporary crown is placed to safeguard your prepared tooth.
4. Placement of the New Crown: Once the new crown is good to go, we’ll bid farewell to the temporary one and secure the new crown in place. We’ll make any required tweaks to ensure it fits just right and feels natural when you bite down.

When it comes to dental crown replacement, you can be assured that the procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia for your comfort.

Don’t be alarmed if you experience a bit of sensitivity or discomfort once the anesthesia wears off – it’s completely normal! These sensations should fade away within just a few days. Your smile is in good hands!

Choose Plaistow Dental For Your Dental Crown

At Plaistow Dental, we truly get it – the significance of maintaining top-notch oral health, whether you rock dental crowns or not. We firmly believe that good oral hygiene is the secret sauce to a dazzling smile and a healthy mouth. So, get ready to brush, floss, and rinse like a champ! These simple yet powerful habits work wonders in preventing decay and all sorts of dental nuisances.

Regular dental visits are absolutely crucial! They give us the chance to closely monitor your oral health, fine-tune dental work like crowns, and give you professional cleanings to keep your mouth in tip-top shape.

And here’s the best part: catching issues early on, like decay under a crown, can spare you from more invasive and expensive procedures. Your smile deserves the very best care!

If you have any concerns about your dental crowns or overall oral health, rest assured that we’re here to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out – we’re dedicated to ensuring your dental well-being and ready to provide expert assistance, answer your questions, and keep your smile healthy and confident. Your oral health is our top priority!