A broken or damaged dental crown can be an unsettling experience, causing discomfort and concern. Crowns protect and restore compromised teeth, but they are not impervious to damage. Understanding immediate actions and professional treatments can help ensure proper care for your oral health.
Immediate Steps
If your dental crown breaks or loosens, take immediate temporary measures to protect your tooth and manage discomfort. If the crown dislodges, carefully retrieve it and store it in a clean container, as your dentist might re-cement it. Rinse your mouth gently with warm water to clear debris and reduce inflammation. If bleeding occurs, apply clean gauze to the affected area until it stops.
To manage pain or sensitivity, over-the-counter pain relievers can provide temporary relief. If the exposed tooth feels sharp or irritates your mouth, cover it with dental wax or temporary dental filling material. Avoid chewing on the affected side to prevent further damage. Contact your dentist promptly to schedule an appointment.
Understanding Crown Damage
Dental crowns, while durable, can become damaged for several reasons. Physical trauma, such as biting down on something exceptionally hard, is a common cause. Constant chewing and grinding forces can also lead to wear and tear, gradually weakening the crown material.
Bruxism, or teeth grinding and clenching, exerts excessive pressure on crowns, potentially causing them to crack or fracture. Decay forming underneath the crown can also compromise its integrity, as the underlying tooth structure weakens. An improper bite or a poorly fitted crown can create uneven pressure, making the crown more susceptible to damage. Visible damage or increased sensitivity often indicates a problem.
Professional Treatment Options
A dental professional’s assessment is required to determine the extent of damage and the underlying tooth’s condition. The dentist will examine the crown and tooth, often using X-rays, to identify cracks, decay, or improper fit. Based on this evaluation, the dentist will recommend the most appropriate treatment, ranging from minor repairs to a complete crown replacement.
For minor chips or cracks, dental bonding may be an option, where a tooth-colored resin is applied and hardened. If the crown is loose but intact, the dentist can clean and re-cement it. However, repeated re-cementing might not be a long-term solution if the crown frequently becomes loose.
When damage is extensive, or the underlying tooth structure is severely compromised by decay or fracture, a full crown replacement is necessary. This process involves removing the old crown, preparing the tooth, taking new impressions, and placing a temporary crown while the permanent one is fabricated. Once ready, the new crown is permanently cemented. Treatment choice depends on the crown’s material, age, and the patient’s oral health.
Preventing Future Issues
Maintaining good oral hygiene is fundamental to preventing future crown damage. Brush at least twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and food particles around the crown and gumline. Daily flossing is also important to clean between teeth and around the crown, preventing underlying tooth decay. An antibacterial mouthwash can further reduce bacteria and maintain oral health.
Avoiding habits that can damage crowns is important. Refrain from chewing on extremely hard foods like ice, hard candies, or nuts, as well as sticky foods that could dislodge the crown. Using teeth as tools to open packages or bite nails should also be avoided.
If you grind or clench your teeth, especially at night, your dentist may recommend a custom-fitted nightguard to protect your crown and natural teeth from excessive pressure. Regular dental check-ups are important, allowing your dentist to monitor the crown’s condition, detect issues early, and perform professional cleanings that contribute to the crown’s longevity.