Dental crowns are a fantastic solution for fixing up damaged or weak teeth, and they can even make your smile look better. If you’re curious about what a dental crown is, when you might need one, and the different types available, you’re in the right place. We’ll also chat about what to do if a crown falls out and how to prevent that from happening. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to keep your teeth in top shape.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is like a little cap that fits over your tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Once it’s cemented in place, it completely covers the visible part of the tooth above the gum line. Crowns are often used to protect weakened teeth, restore broken or worn-down teeth, cover and support teeth with large fillings, hold dental bridges in place, cover misshaped or discolored teeth, cover dental implants, or even for cosmetic modifications.
When are Dental Crowns Necessary?
Dental crowns are necessary to restore and protect teeth that are damaged, weakened, or aesthetically compromised. They are commonly used to shield teeth weakened by decay or those that have undergone a root canal, preventing further damage and reducing the risk of fractures. Crowns also restore teeth that are broken or severely worn down, bringing back their shape, function, and appearance. When a tooth has a large filling with little natural tooth structure left, a crown can cover and support it.
Additionally, crowns can anchor a dental bridge to replace missing teeth and improve the appearance of misshaped or severely discolored teeth. They are also placed on top of dental implants to replace missing teeth and can be used for cosmetic modifications to enhance a smile. Essentially, crowns are essential when a tooth is too damaged for a filling but not enough to require extraction, providing a durable, long-lasting solution to maintain dental health and aesthetics.
Are There Different Types of Dental Crowns?
There are several types of dental crowns, each made from different materials and serving various purposes:
Metal Crowns: Made from materials like gold, palladium, nickel, or chromium, these crowns are super durable and great for withstanding biting and chewing forces. The downside? Their metallic color isn’t the best for visible front teeth.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns (PFM): These crowns have a metal structure for strength and a porcelain exterior for a more natural look. They work well for both front and back teeth, though sometimes the metal can show as a dark line at the gum line.
All-Porcelain or All-Ceramic Crowns: These provide the best natural color match and are ideal for people with metal allergies. They look great on front teeth but aren’t as strong as metal or PFM crowns.
Resin Crowns: Made from composite resin, these crowns are usually less expensive but can wear down over time and are more prone to fractures compared to porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns.
Pressed Ceramic Crowns: With a hard inner core, these crowns replace the metal liner used in the all-ceramic process. They’re capped with porcelain, offering a natural color and longer durability.
Do Dental Crowns Fall Out?
Even though dental crowns are meant to be a long-term solution, they can sometimes fall out or become loose. This can happen for several reasons:
Cement Washout: The dental cement used to attach the crown can wash out over time, causing the crown to loosen and fall off.
Tooth Decay: If the tooth under the crown starts to decay, the crown may become loose and eventually fall off.
Trauma or Injury: A direct hit to the mouth or biting on something hard can dislodge the crown.
Wear and Tear: Normal wear and tear over time can cause a crown to loosen, especially if it’s made from less durable material.
What Can I Do to Prevent Dental Crowns from Falling Out?
Now, we can finally dig into the nitty-gritty. To keep your dental crown in place, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene, avoid certain habits, and take some proactive steps. Here’s how:
Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Pay extra attention to the area around the crown. Floss daily, using a gentle sawing motion, and consider a floss threader or interdental brush if needed. An antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce plaque and bacteria, protecting both your crown and the underlying tooth. Regular dental cleanings every six months are a must.
Avoid Hard Foods: Steer clear of biting on ice, hard candies, nuts, or even using your teeth to open packages. These actions can crack or chip your crown. Instead, cut hard foods into smaller pieces to reduce the pressure on your teeth.
Be Cautious with Sticky Foods: Sticky foods like caramel and chewing gum can adhere to your crown and pull it off. If you do eat sticky foods, rinse your mouth with water afterward to remove any residues.
Regular Dental Check-ups: These visits allow your dentist to check the fit and condition of your crown and spot any potential issues early. If you grind your teeth at night (bruxism), consider getting a custom-fitted night guard. For daytime clenching, try stress-relief techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
Avoid Using Teeth as Tools: Don’t use your teeth to open packages or bottles. This can put undue force on your crown and risk damage.
Wear a Mouthguard for Sports: If you play contact sports, a mouthguard can protect your crown and other teeth from injury.
Monitor Your Crown: Pay attention to how your crown feels. If you notice any looseness, sensitivity, or discomfort, contact your dentist promptly.
If your crown does fall out, carefully retrieve it and keep it in a safe place, possibly storing it in a small container with a bit of toothpaste or dental adhesive to keep it moist. Schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to have the crown re-cemented or replaced. Avoid chewing on the side of the mouth with the missing crown to prevent damage to the exposed tooth. Over-the-counter dental cement can temporarily hold the crown in place if you can’t see your dentist immediately, but it’s not a permanent solution.
Keeping Your Smile Healthy with Angola Dental Center and Aegis Dental Group
Dental crowns are super important for restoring and protecting teeth that need a little extra help. Whether you’re dealing with a weakened tooth, a big filling, or just want to improve your smile, crowns can do the job. There are different types to choose from, depending on what suits you best. While crowns are built to last, they can sometimes fall out due to various reasons like wear and tear or tooth decay. But don’t worry – maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding hard and sticky foods, and regular dental check-ups can keep your crown in place. And if it does fall out, just get in touch with your dentist to get it sorted out quickly. With these tips, you’ll keep your crowns – and your smile – in great shape for years to come.
Ready to ensure your dental health is in top shape? Schedule your appointment with Angola Dental Center or Aegis Dental Group today! Our expert team is here to help you with all your dental needs, from crowns to cleanings and everything in between.