Dental crowns can last for a very long time, but it is possible for them to become broken or chipped, so you need to know what steps to follow if you ever find yourself in this situation. In some cases, the crown can be repaired, but this will depend on the severity of the damage and the type of crown you have.
Crowns are used whenever a tooth is broken or damaged and if a filling will not be able to restore its natural function. It is a restoration that surrounds a tooth by forming a cap above the gum line, and the tooth will have a normal appearance as a result. Dental crowns can also be used to cover a discolored tooth or to attach a bridge, and they can also be used to prevent a fracture in a weak tooth. There are different types of crowns and they can last anywhere from five to 15 years and sometimes even more, but accidents do happen, and you need to know how to react.
Dental crowns are strong but grinding your teeth, a fall, normal wear and tear, biting down on something hard or a blow to your face can all cause your crown to break, so you have to be careful. Never open a bottle or snack jar with your teeth, and wear a mouthguard at night if you clench your jaw or grind your teeth while you sleep because these steps will help protect your crown.
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If your dental crown does become damaged or cracked, you need to call your dentist for an appointment right away. It is possible for you to experience some sensitivity to hot or cold foods and liquids, although this will depend on the underlying tooth pulp and whether or not it is affected. Always look at the damaged area to see if any pieces appear to be missing or dislodged. If the crown is loose, you can try pulling it off so that you don’t swallow it and rinse your mouth with warm water. If the chipped tooth is causing you to bleed, use a piece of gauze to apply pressure to the damaged tooth.
Once you get to your appointment, the dentist will determine whether or not it’s possible to repair the damaged crown by assessing the severity of the situation. If it’s a small chip, they may be able to repair it with a resin, and in some cases, the crown may just need to be reshaped and smoothed. If the damage is severe, a new crown may be necessary.
Cygnet Dental can help if you ever experience a damaged crown. We have been helping patients in the Grande Prairie area for years and specialize in different areas, including orthodontics and teeth whitening. If you are looking for reputable dentists, contact us today!
