The purpose of a dental crown is to strengthen and protect a damaged tooth from decay, injury or a large filling. Crowns are constructed of tough materials, however, they are not forever. They can loosen, fall off or start to wear over time. For those patients who have this experience, they may question whether the current crown can be reattached or if it should be replaced in its entirety.
It depends on the condition of the crown and the tooth under the crown. If you’re thinking about dental crowns in Sherman Oaks, it’s important to know what factors make a certain treatment the right one to make a confident decision about your dental health.
Why Does a Dental Crown Come Loose?
A crown is cemented into place, and over time, from chewing, grinding or wear and tear, the bond may become loose. In some cases, it isn’t the cement, it’s the change in the tooth.
There are many common causes for a crown to become loose, such as:
- Worn-out dental cement
- Decay under the crown of the tooth.
- A cracked or broken crown.
- A fracture of the supporting tooth.
- Injury or biting on something hard
A loose crown that isn’t painful should be checked as soon as possible. Spaces under the crown can let bacteria in that can cause decay or infection.
When Can a Dental Crown Be Reattached?
Not all loose crowns require replacement. Reattachment is best, if the crown is still in good condition and fits the tooth well.
It’s often possible to reattach a crown when:
- Free of cracks, chips.
- Tooth root is healthy.
- There is no significant decay.
- Crown still fits very well.
- It’s just the dental cement has worn out.
After removing any cement left over, your dentist will examine the tooth to make sure the crown fits properly, and then re-cement it securely.
Reattachment is simple and can be done in many patients who are looking for dental crowns in Sherman Oaks, without having to replace the entire dental crown.
When Does a Crown Need to Be Replaced?
However, sometimes it is not the safest choice to use the same crown again. A damaged crown and/or supporting tooth can be replaced for better long-term protection.
If the following two or more conditions are true, a replacement is usually recommended:
- Crown is cracked or abraded.
- It is underlined and decay has formed.
- The tooth on which the other tooth rests is broken.
- The crown doesn’t fit properly anymore.
- The surface lines can no longer close the tooth.
A broken crown exposes more of the tooth’s structure, increasing the chances for future issues and complications and ultimately destroying the structural integrity of the entire tooth. Many patients contemplating dental crowns in Sherman Oaks discover that replacing the aging crown early can help avoid more extensive therapy later on.
Can Another Dentist Reattach an Existing Crown?
Yes. A dentist can assess and treat a crown even if it was put in by another dentist. It’s about the state of the restoration rather than the location of the crown’s manufacture.
At Clove Dental Sherman Oaks, we will evaluate the condition of the crown and the surrounding tooth and consider reattachment or replacement depending on the long-term result that will be achieved. All suggestions are tailored to your specific needs, not a general fit-all.
What Happens During the Evaluation?
A comprehensive assessment can find out if the current crown can remain undamaged.
Your dentist may:
- Inspect crown for damage
- Examine tooth below for decay symptoms
- Make digital X-rays as required.
- Analyze your bite position.
- Check the fit of the crown
- Be on the lookout for gum problems.
This test will give you an idea if the crown is still trustworthy or not. If you are contemplating dental crowns in Sherman Oaks, this is a measure that will help you achieve long-term oral health instead of a short-term solution.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Typically, dental crowns will last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, though many will last a longer period if they’re taken of the right care.
They can last for a number of years depending on:
- Brush and floss teeth at least once a day
- Regular dental checkups
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- The material that makes up the crown.
- Overall oral health
Regular check-ups at your dentist’s office can detect small problems before they can reach the crown or the tooth itself. This is why many patients continue to opt for dental crowns in Sherman Oaks to enjoy and keep healthy smiles.
Should You Wait If Your Crown Falls Off?
If your crown comes off, it’s best not to delay treatment. If the tooth seems okay, it’s not completely protected.
If there is no crown on the tooth, it might be at a higher risk of:
- Sensitivity
- Decay
- Cracks
- Gum irritation
- Movement of nearby teeth
The sooner, the better chance of success for reattaching the crown. If you wait too long, further damage could occur and make replacement a must. When it comes to dental crowns in Sherman Oaks, early dental care can often save time and future care.
Conclusion
A wobbly crown isn’t necessarily a reason to replace it. Reattachment may be a viable option if the crown is sound, fits well and the underlying tooth is sound. Often, however, replacing the crown is the best long-term treatment if there is decay, damage or improper fit.
If you’re considering dental crowns in Sherman Oaks, having your crown evaluated as soon as possible can help prevent additional damage and keep your smile healthy. As the treatment depends on the condition of your tooth, it is easier to select the treatment that will benefit you for many years, if you get assessed in time.