A dental crown is often the solution when a tooth is severely decayed, damaged, or weakened. Crowns are designed to cover and protect the tooth, restoring its function and appearance. However, many people wonder: Can you get a cavity under a crown?
In this blog, well answer this question, explore why cavities can develop under crowns, and discuss how to prevent this issue from affecting your dental health.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a cap placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. Crowns are typically made from materials like porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of these materials. They are custom-made to fit over the prepared tooth, which is usually reduced in size before the crown is placed.
Crowns are used in various situations, including:
To restore a tooth that is severely decayed or damaged.
To cover a root canal-treated tooth.
To protect a weakened tooth from fracturing.
To improve the appearance of a discolored or misshapen tooth.
While crowns are designed to protect the tooth underneath, they can still develop issues, particularly if not properly maintained or if theres an issue with the crown itself.
Can You Get a Cavity Under a Crown?
Yes, it is possible to get a cavity under a dental crown, although it is relatively rare. The crown itself is usually durable and resistant to decay, but the tooth underneath the crown is still vulnerable to cavities, especially if the crown does not fit properly or if it becomes damaged. Here’s how cavities can develop under a crown:
1. Poor Fit or Seal
If the crown does not fit properly, there may be gaps or spaces between the crown and the tooth. These gaps can trap food particles, bacteria, and plaque, allowing them to accumulate. Over time, this can lead to the development of a cavity under the crown. A poorly sealed crown can also allow bacteria to seep beneath it, causing decay and weakening the tooth structure.
2. Damage to the Crown
If a crown becomes chipped, cracked, or damaged in any way, it can expose the underlying tooth to bacteria. Even small cracks can allow bacteria to infiltrate and cause decay. While crowns made from materials like porcelain or ceramic are strong, they can be more susceptible to damage from things like chewing hard foods or teeth grinding.
3. Gum Recession
Over time, your gums may recede, exposing the edge of the crown and the tooth beneath it. If the tooth underneath is not properly cared for, plaque and bacteria can build up in this exposed area, leading to decay. Gum recession can also create a small gap between the crown and the tooth, allowing bacteria to enter.
4. Improper Oral Hygiene
Even with a crown in place, its essential to maintain good oral hygiene. If you dont brush and floss properly around the crown, bacteria can build up along the gumline, where the crown meets the tooth. Over time, this can lead to cavities or gum disease around the crown.
Signs That You May Have a Cavity Under a Crown
If you suspect that you may have a cavity under a crown, its important to pay attention to any symptoms that may indicate decay. Some common signs of cavities under a crown include:
Tooth Sensitivity: You may experience sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks, especially near the crown.
Pain or Discomfort: If you feel pain in the tooth or around the crown, it could be a sign of decay or an issue with the crown.
Discoloration: If the area around the crown or the edge of the crown looks darker or stained, it may indicate that decay is present.
Bad Breath or Foul Taste: Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth can be a sign of infection or cavity development under the crown.
Visible Gaps: If you notice a gap or space between the crown and the tooth, it could indicate that the crown is not properly sealed, which may lead to decay.
How to Prevent Cavities Under Crowns
While cavities under crowns are possible, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk and maintain the health of your crown and the underlying tooth:
1. Ensure a Proper Fit
When your dentist places a crown, its crucial that it fits well and forms a strong seal with the tooth. If you notice any discomfort, or if the crown feels loose or uncomfortable, contact your dentist immediately to have it checked. A well-fitting crown will reduce the chances of bacteria and plaque entering beneath it.
2. Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Continue to practice excellent oral hygiene by brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day. Use an interdental brush or a floss threader to clean around the crown, as regular floss may not reach all the way around the edge. If you have a fixed bridge or crown, be sure to clean underneath it thoroughly to avoid plaque buildup.
3. Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods
To protect your crown from damage, avoid chewing hard or sticky foods that could cause the crown to crack or loosen. Be cautious when eating things like ice, hard candy, or popcorn kernels.
4. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Regular dental checkups are essential to the longevity of your crown. During your visits, your dentist will examine the crown and check for any signs of damage or decay. Professional cleanings will also help remove any plaque that may have built up around the crown and gumline.
5. Address Gum Recession
If you notice that your gums are receding around your crown, talk to your dentist about possible solutions. Gum recession can increase the risk of decay under the crown, so its important to address the issue early to prevent further damage.
What Happens If You Develop a Cavity Under a Crown?
If you develop a cavity under a crown, its important to see your dentist as soon as possible. The treatment will depend on the extent of the decay:
Minor Decay: If the decay is minimal, your dentist may be able to repair the cavity by cleaning out the decayed area and re-sealing the crown.
Extensive Decay: If the decay is more severe and affects the structure of the tooth, your dentist may need to replace the crown entirely or perform a root canal if the decay has reached the tooths pulp.
Conclusion
While dental crowns are designed to protect your teeth, cavities can still develop under them if proper care is not taken. Poor fit, damage to the crown, gum recession, or inadequate oral hygiene can all contribute to the development of cavities under a crown.
To prevent cavities and maintain the health of your crown and the underlying tooth, ensure that your crown is well-fitted, practice good oral hygiene, avoid damaging foods, and attend regular dental checkups. If you suspect any issues with your crown, dont hesitate to contact your dentist at McLevin Dental Clinic for an evaluation and treatment.