Dental crowns last for many years, protecting your tooth and maintaining your smile. However, like all dental restorations, crowns can sometimes break or become damaged. If you find yourself dealing with a broken dental crown, it’s important to know what steps to take to protect your oral health. This blog will guide you through what to do if your dental crown breaks, how to handle the situation, and when to seek professional help.
Understanding Dental Crowns
Before diving into the issue of broken crowns, let’s first understand what a dental crown is and its purpose. A dental crown is a cap that covers a damaged or decayed tooth, restoring its shape, size, and strength. Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of materials, each with its own advantages.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), dental crowns can last between 5 to 15 years, depending on factors like oral hygiene, the material used, and how much wear and tear they are exposed to. Crowns play a crucial role in protecting teeth that have been weakened by decay, root canals, or fractures.
Common Causes of Broken Dental Crowns
Despite their durability, dental crowns can break or become damaged for several reasons. Some of the common causes include:
- Biting Hard Objects: Chewing on hard foods like ice, nuts, or hard candy can put excessive pressure on a crown, causing it to crack or break.
- Grinding Teeth: Teeth grinding or clenching, also known as bruxism, can exert significant pressure on crowns, leading to wear and potential breakage.
- Decay Under the Crown: While crowns protect the visible part of the tooth, decay can still occur underneath. This decay can weaken the tooth and cause the crown to become loose or break.
- Trauma or Injury: Accidents or injuries to the mouth can cause crowns to crack or break, especially if the impact is directly on the tooth.
- Age and Wear: Over time, crowns can wear down due to normal usage. The constant pressure from chewing can eventually lead to fractures or chips.
Signs That Your Dental Crown Is Broken
A broken crown may not always be immediately noticeable, but there are signs that can indicate a problem. These signs include:
- Pain or Sensitivity: You may experience pain or sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures if the broken crown exposes the underlying tooth. This sensitivity can occur because the protective layer of the crown is compromised.
- Rough or Jagged Edges: If your crown has broken, you might feel a rough or sharp edge when you run your tongue over the tooth. This can cause discomfort or irritation to your tongue or cheek.
- Loose Crown: A crown that feels loose or wobbly can indicate that it has cracked or broken. This instability can make it difficult to eat or speak comfortably.
- Visible Damage: In some cases, you may be able to see visible damage, such as a crack, chip, or missing piece of the crown.
What to Do If Your Dental Crown Breaks
If you suspect that your dental crown is broken, it’s important to take the following steps to protect your tooth and avoid further damage:
- Call Your Dentist: The first and most important step is to call your dentist. Explain the situation and describe any symptoms you are experiencing. He / She will advise you on the next steps and schedule an appointment to assess the damage.
- Protect the Affected Tooth: Till your consultation, avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the broken crown is located. This will help prevent further damage or discomfort. Stick to soft foods and avoid anything hard, sticky, or crunchy.
- Use Dental Wax: If the broken crown has sharp edges that are causing discomfort, you can use dental wax to cover the area temporarily. Dental wax is available at most drugstores and can provide relief.
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Continue to brush and floss your teeth, but be gentle around the affected area. Keeping the area clean will help prevent infection or further decay.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: If you are experiencing pain or sensitivity, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate discomfort.
Treatment Options for a Broken Dental Crown
The treatment for a broken dental crown will depend on the extent of the damage and the condition of the underlying tooth. Here are some possible treatment options:
- Crown Repair: If the damage to the crown is minor, it may be repaired. This could involve smoothing out the edges or applying a dental resin to restore the crown’s shape.
- Crown Replacement: In cases where the crown is significantly damaged, your dentist may recommend replacing it with a new crown. This process involves removing the old crown, preparing the tooth, and fitting a new custom-made crown.
- Root Canal Treatment: If the breakage has exposed the tooth’s pulp or if there is decay under the crown, a root canal may be necessary before placing a new crown. A root canal involves removing the infected or damaged pulp, cleaning the tooth, and sealing it.
- Extraction: In severe cases where the tooth cannot be saved, extraction may be necessary. After extraction, options like dental implants or bridges can be considered to replace the missing tooth.
Preventing Broken Dental Crowns
While not all crown breakages can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk:
- Avoid Chewing Hard Objects: Steer clear of biting down on hard objects like ice, pens, or fingernails. Stick to soft foods that are less likely to damage your crown.
- Wear a Mouthguard: If you grind your teeth or participate in contact sports, wearing a mouthguard can protect your teeth and crowns from damage.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Regular dental check-ups will help track the condition of your crowns and address any issues early on.
- Address Bruxism: If you grind your teeth at night, take a consultation for options like a nightguard to protect your teeth and crowns from excessive wear.
Take Action to Protect Your Smile
A broken dental crown is not just a cosmetic issue; it can lead to discomfort, pain, and further dental problems if left untreated. By taking prompt action and seeking professional help, you can protect your oral health and maintain your smile. If you suspect your dental crown is broken, don’t wait—contact Spearmint Dental. Our Wichita Falls dentist is here to provide you with the care and attention you need to restore your smile. Schedule an appointment today to discuss your options and take the first step towards a healthier, happier smile!
