By Dr. Abhi Singh Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, and dental crowns can be an effective way to restore and enhance its appearance. However, as with any dental procedure, there are risks associated with getting dental crowns.
Understanding these risks is essential for safeguarding your smile and ensuring you get the best possible results from your treatment. This article will provide valuable insight into managing and reducing the risks associated with this popular dental crown procedure.
Summary of The Content:
- Dental crowns are replacement tooth caps that restore and enhance a tooth’s appearance and protect it from further damage
- Common risks associated with dental crowns include fracturing, discolouration, allergic reactions, and decay or damage to the underlying tooth.
- Factors that increase the risk of complications include poor oral hygiene, improper crown fit, teeth grinding or clenching, and teeth misalignment.
- Dental crowns can affect surrounding teeth, such as increased stress, bite alignment changes, and increased risk of infection.
- Alternatives to dental crowns include dental bonding, veneers, inlays and onlays, dental implants, and partial dentures or dental bridges.
- Preventative measures to avoid complications include proper oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, avoiding hard or sticky foods, and wearing a nightguard for bruxism.
- Address complications promptly with dental care, crown replacement or repair, addressing underlying oral health issues, or switching crown material.
A dental crown is a replacement tooth cap that is placed over a damaged, decayed, or misshapen tooth to restore its natural feature and improve its appearance. The crown covers the entire tooth, starting from the gum line, and protects it from further damage.
The process for a dental crown involves two visits to the dentist. The dentist will prepare and shape the tooth to fit the crown during the first visit. Before the dental crown procedure, the dentist may also perform a root canal treatment and X-rays. They will also take impressions of the tooth to create a mould for the crown. If needed, a temporary crown will be placed to protect the normal tooth until a permanent crown is ready.
The mould is then sent to a dental laboratory where the permanent crown is fabricated. This process usually takes around two to three weeks. The tooth and gum tissue is numbed with anesthesia during the second appointment before the crown-making process begins. The permanent crown is cemented onto the tooth using a special adhesive, and any adjustments are made to ensure a perfect fit.
Common Risks of Dental Crowns
Although dental crowns can help improve your teeth’s appearance, function, and overall health, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile confidently. You should also remember that there are some risks associated with dental crowns that patients should be aware of:
- Fracturing or cracking of the crown:
Crowns can be made of different materials, including porcelain, metal, or a combination. However, regardless of the material used, crowns can still fracture or crack due to biting on hard objects or trauma to the mouth. - Discolouration of the crown:
Over time, dental crowns can become discoloured or stained, especially if you consume coffee, tea, or red wine. This can result in a visible difference between your natural teeth and the crown. - Allergic reactions to the materials used in the crown:
Some people may be allergic to the materials used in dental crowns, such as metals, which can cause an allergic reaction that can be uncomfortable or even dangerous. - Decay or damage to the underlying tooth:
If the underlying tooth is not properly cared for or maintained, it can still be susceptible to decay or damage. This can eventually lead to the crown’s failure and the need for additional treatment.
Factors That Increase the Risk of Complications
While dental crowns can effectively restore damaged or decayed teeth, several factors can increase dental crown failure rates or complications. These factors can include poor oral hygiene, the improper fit of the crown, and even grinding or clenching of the teeth.
- Poor oral hygiene:
Failing to care for your teeth and gums properly can increase the risk of decay, infection, and other dental crown complications that can affect the health of your crown. - Poor fit of the crown:
If the crown does not fit properly, it can cause discomfort, sensitivity, and even damage to the underlying tooth. - Grinding or clenching teeth:
Habitual grinding or clenching of the teeth can put extra pressure on the crown, leading to cracking, chipping, or even dislodgement. - Teeth misalignment or occlusion issues:
Misaligned teeth or issues with your bite can stress the crown, increasing the risk of dental crown complications. - Poorly performed dental crown procedures:
If the crown is not properly placed, it can cause damage to the tooth or surrounding soft tissues, leading to infection or other complications.
Does a Dental Crown Affect the Surrounding Teeth?
While crowns can be an effective way to restore the function and appearance of a single tooth, many patients wonder if they can affect the surrounding teeth. The placement of a dental crown can affect the surrounding teeth in some ways, including:
- Increased stress on neighbouring teeth:
Improperly placing a dental crown can cause the surrounding teeth to bear more weight and stress, potentially leading to damage or complications. - Changes to bite alignment:
If the dental crown is not properly placed, it can alter how the teeth fit together, leading to issues with bite alignment and overall oral health. - Risk of infection:
If the dental crown is not properly fitted or cared for, it can increase the risk of dental crown complications and infection to the surrounding teeth and gums.
However, with proper placement and care, dental crowns can be a safe and effective treatment option that does not negatively impact the surrounding teeth.
Under What Circumstances Are Dental Crowns Not Recommended?
Dental crown failure rates depend on the patient’s circumstance. For example, a weak tooth may not be recommended because it is not strong enough to support a crown. Additionally, other dental procedures or solutions may be required instead of a crown if the tooth has extensive decay or damage. Dental crowns may also not be recommended if the tooth has a large dental filling or insufficient tooth structure.
Risks of Specific Crown Materials
When it comes to dental restorations, choosing the right crown material is crucial. The crown material determines the restoration’s strength, durability, and aesthetics. Patients should be aware of the distinct risks associated with each type of crown material before making a decision, particularly concerning the possibility of dental crown failure rates.
Metal Crowns:
- Metallic crowns can cause an allergic reaction because of the metal or gold alloys.
- Its metallic colour may provide a different level of cosmetic appeal than other crown materials.
Porcelain Crowns:
- Porcelain crowns can be brittle and prone to cracking or chipping.
- They may not be as strong as other crown materials, such as metal alloys or zirconia.
Ceramic Crowns:
- Ceramic crowns can be prone to fracturing or chipping, especially thin ones.
- They may not be as strong as other crown materials, such as metal or zirconia.
Zirconia Crowns:
- Zirconia crowns can be abrasive and cause more wear on the teeth than other crown materials.
- Zirconia crowns may have a higher price than alternative dental crown options.
- One of the potential drawbacks of a zirconia crown is its opaqueness or color, which may make it appear slightly less natural than its adjacent teeth.
It is important to note that the risks associated with specific crown materials vary depending on the individual patient and their unique situation. A dental professional can help determine which crown material suits each patient’s needs.
Signs of Potential Complications
Here are some potential indicators that complications may arise with dental crowns:
- Pain or sensitivity of the crowned tooth:
This can occur due to various reasons, such as the crown being too high and thus putting excessive pressure on the tooth or if the nerve inside the tooth becomes irritated. In some cases, the pain may be caused by tooth decay or an infection in the tooth. - Swelling or bleeding of the gums surrounding the crowned tooth:
This can be a sign of gum inflammation or infection, which an ill-fitting crown, poor oral hygiene, or a buildup of plaque or tartar may cause. - Difficulty or discomfort while attempting to bite or chew:
This can occur if the crown is too high, which can cause the opposing tooth to hit the crown first, leading to discomfort or difficulty while biting or chewing. Additionally, if the crown is not properly aligned with the other teeth, it can cause discomfort and difficulty while eating. - A loose crown or a crown falling out:
This can happen due to various reasons, such as the dental cement used to hold the crown in place wearing off, the crown being damaged or cracked due to a trauma injury or wear and tear, or decay or infection in the tooth itself, which can cause the crown to come loose or fall out.
If any of these signs occur, seeing a dentist as soon as possible is important to address the issue and prevent further complications.
Preventative Measures
Knowing the preventive measures for dental crowns can assist in avoiding future complications, and you can do this by:
- Maintain proper oral hygiene practice:
Brush twice daily, floss daily, and rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash to prevent decay and gum disease. - Scheduling regular dental check-ups:
Regular dental visits can help catch any issues with dental crowns early on. - Avoiding hard or sticky foods:
These foods can put extra pressure on dental crowns, potentially causing them to crack or become dislodged. - Wear a nightguard if you have bruxism:
Grinding your teeth can cause damage to dental restorations, including dental crowns. Wearing a custom-fitted nightguard can help protect the teeth and the crowns from the effects of grinding.
Maintaining good oral hygiene, regular visits, avoiding hard or sticky foods, and wearing a nightguard if you grind your teeth can all help prevent complications with dental crowns.
Precautions During Crown Placement
When it comes to crown placement, it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure the procedure goes smoothly and the crown is properly placed. Here are some of the key precautions to keep in mind:
- Accurate diagnosis and treatment planning:
It is imperative for the dentist to accurately diagnose the issue and develop a treatment plan considering your needs and concerns. - Proper tooth preparation:
The tooth that will receive the crown must be properly prepared, which may involve removing some of the natural tooth structure to make room for the crown. - Accurate impression taking:
A precise impression of the tooth and surrounding area is necessary to create a crown that fits properly and looks natural. - Use of high-quality materials:
The material chosen for the crown should be high quality and withstand chewing and biting. - Proper crown fitting and adjustment:
Once the crown is made, it must be properly fitted and adjusted to ensure it feels comfortable and functions properly.
By taking these precautions during crown placement, dentists can help ensure the crown succeeds and the patient’s oral health is protected.
How to Address Complications
While dental crowns are generally a safe and effective treatment option, complications can sometimes occur. Here are some ways to address complications related to dental crowns:
- Seeking prompt dental care:
If a complication arises, seeking special care from a qualified professional is essential. Delaying treatment can lead to more serious issues down the line. - Replacing or repairing the crown:
Depending on the nature of the complication, replacing or repairing the crown may be necessary. This can help ensure the tooth is properly protected and that the patient’s oral health is not compromised. - Addressing underlying oral health issues:
In some cases, complications with a dental crown may be related to underlying oral health issues, such as gum disease or tooth decay. Addressing these issues can help prevent future complications. - Switching to a different crown material:
If a patient is experiencing an allergic reaction or other negative side effects related to the crown material, switching to a different material may be necessary.
By addressing complications related to dental crowns, patients can help ensure that their oral health is protected and their crown is functioning properly.
What Alternatives Are Available for Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are a common treatment option for various dental issues, but they may not be the best choice for every patient. Fortunately, several alternatives are available for those who may not be candidates for dental crowns or prefer a different treatment approach. Here are some alternatives to dental crowns:
- Dental bonding:
This involves the application of a coloured resin to the affected tooth, which is then shaped and polished to look like a natural tooth. Bonding is a good option for minor cosmetic issues like chips or discolouration. - Veneers:
Like bonding, veneers treat cosmetic issues like cracks, chips, and discolouration. They are thin porcelain shells custom-made to fit over the front of the tooth, giving it a natural look. - Inlays and onlays:
They are custom-made restorations used to repair damaged or decayed teeth. Inlays fit inside the tooth, while onlays extend to cover one or more of the tooth’s cusps. They can be made from various materials, including porcelain and composite resin. - Dental implants:
Dental implants may be a good alternative to a crown for patients who have lost a tooth or need one extracted. Implants involve the placement of a metal post into the jawbone, which is then topped with a custom-made crown that looks and functions like a natural tooth. - Partial dentures or dental bridges:
These are removable or fixed appliances that are used to replace one or more missing teeth. They can be a good alternative to dental crowns for patients who have extensive damage to their teeth or who are missing multiple teeth.
By discussing these alternatives with a qualified dental professional, patients can choose the treatment option that best meets their needs and goals.
Final Thoughts
By understanding these risks and taking steps to manage them, such as maintaining good oral hygiene, seeking prompt dental care, and discussing alternative treatment options with a qualified dental professional, patients can help safeguard their smiles and ensure the long-term health and function of their teeth. With proper care and attention, dental crowns can continue to provide patients with a strong, healthy, and beautiful smile for many years.
Don’t let the risks of dental crowns keep you from a beautiful, healthy smile. Trust the experienced team at Prospect Road Dental to provide you with the personalised care and attention you deserve. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step towards optimal dental health.
Frequently Asked Questions
The lifespan of your crowns depends on the type you choose and how you maintain them. For instance, gold crowns can last up to 20 years, while resin can only last up to 5 years. On average, dental crowns can last between 5 and 20 years or longer with proper care.
Yes. You will be given local anaesthesia to numb the area throughout the procedure so you won’t feel any pain or discomfort. The numbing agent will also wear off a few hours after the treatment is completed. If you have dental fear or a more complex case, you can talk to your dentist about getting sedatives or general anaesthesia.
Certain restrictions on what you can eat or drink after getting a dental crown should be observed. For the first 24 hours after your procedure, stick to soft foods and liquids such as soup, yogurt, and smoothies. Avoid eating anything hard or chewy, like nuts, popcorn, chips, and other crunchy snacks, until the area has healed completely. You should also avoid extremely hot or cold foods and beverages for the first few weeks, as these can cause sensitivity while your gum is healing. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to avoid drinks with high sugar, such as carbonated beverages and fruit juices, as these can increase the risk of tooth decay. Remember, you can still get tooth decay under your crown.
It’s important to have your dental crown checked at least twice a year by a dentist. This lets them check the crown to see if it’s fitting properly and not being damaged due to wear or tear. Your dentist may also recommend more frequent check-ups if you are at risk of developing gum disease, as this can increase the risk of the crown failing.
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