A dental crown functions as a cap placed over a damaged tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. These restorations are bonded to the tooth, providing protection and support for teeth that are decayed, fractured, or severely worn. While durable, crowns can break or become compromised, requiring professional dental attention.
Immediate Steps When a Crown Breaks
If a dental crown breaks, immediate action can help protect the tooth and manage discomfort. Rinse your mouth gently with warm water to clear debris. If you locate the broken pieces, retrieve them, as your dentist might use them for assessment. Sensitivity or pain can be managed temporarily with over-the-counter pain relievers. Contact your dentist promptly, as a broken crown can expose the underlying tooth to further issues.
Common Reasons Crowns Break
Dental crowns can fracture or break due to several factors, often related to the forces they endure daily. Biting down on hard objects such as ice, nuts, hard candies, or non-food items can exert excessive pressure, leading to cracks or breakage. Over time, the constant forces of chewing and grinding contribute to general wear and tear, which can weaken the crown material. Underlying tooth decay beneath the crown can also compromise its foundation, causing it to loosen or break. Improper bite alignment, teeth grinding (bruxism), or limitations in the crown’s material can also contribute to its eventual failure.
Dental Diagnosis and Repair Options
When a dental crown breaks, a dentist will conduct a thorough examination to assess the extent and nature of the damage. This typically involves a visual inspection of the crown and the underlying tooth structure. X-rays may also be taken to evaluate the condition of the tooth root, bone, and to detect any hidden decay or fractures beneath the crown. The appropriate repair option depends heavily on the severity of the damage to both the crown and the natural tooth.
For minor chips or small cracks, the dentist might be able to perform a dental bonding procedure. This involves using a tooth-colored composite resin material to fill in and repair the damaged area, which is then hardened with a specialized light. If the crown has become loose but is still intact and the underlying tooth is healthy, the dentist may be able to simply re-cement it into place. This is a straightforward procedure that restores the crown’s stability.
However, if the crown is extensively fractured, has a large missing portion, or if the underlying tooth is significantly compromised, a complete replacement of the crown is often necessary. The process for a new custom crown involves preparing the tooth, taking impressions, and placing a temporary crown while a permanent one is fabricated in a dental lab. For severe underlying tooth damage, such as deep decay reaching the pulp or a fracture extending below the gum line, more involved treatments might be required. This could include a root canal procedure to remove infected tissue before a new crown is placed, or in extreme cases, the extraction of the tooth if it cannot be saved.
Preventing Future Crown Damage
Protecting dental crowns from future damage involves adopting specific habits and maintaining consistent oral care. Avoiding chewing on extremely hard foods such as ice, hard candies, or nuts can significantly reduce stress on the crown. Refrain from using teeth as tools, such as opening packages or biting fingernails.
For individuals who grind or clench their teeth, a custom-fitted night guard can provide a protective barrier. Regular dental check-ups are also important, allowing the dentist to identify and address any early signs of wear or issues. Consistent daily oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing, prevents decay around the crown and maintains the health of the supporting tooth and gums.