Dental crowns encase and shield damaged teeth, offering a robust and long-lasting solution. However, if you’re wondering “Can crowns get cavities?”, the answer is yes! Cavities can still develop beneath crowns. This article explores how they form, why they matter, and how to prevent them.
What is a Crown?
A crown is a protective cap design to fit snugly over a tooth. Dentists use crowns to reinforce weakened or compromised teeth. They can be sculpted from metal, porcelain, or ceramic. Crowns envelop the entire visible portion of the tooth, restoring its function and shape.
Why are Crowns Necessary?
Crowns are needed for various reasons.
- They safeguard teeth damaged by decay or injury.
- After a root canal or a large filling, crowns offer protection.
- They can also restore teeth that are crack or worn down.
- Crowns maintain the tooth’s strength and function for many years.
Can You Get a Cavity Under a Crown?
Yes, cavities can develop beneath crowns. While the crown itself doesn’t decay, the tooth under it remains vulnerable. Bacteria can gather at the edges of the crown. Over time, this can lead to decay where the crown meets the natural tooth.
Why Do Cavities Form Under Crowns?
Crown cavities arise from neglected oral care. Plaque forms at the gum line where the crown meets the tooth. If this buildup is not clean away, it leads to decay. A loose or broken crown can also allow bacteria to sneak underneath and attack the tooth.
Causes of Cavities in Crowned Teeth
The following are some common causes of crown cavities:
- If brushing and flossing aren’t done properly, plaque builds up. This can lead to decay around the edge of the crown.
- When a crown becomes loose, gaps form. These gaps allow bacteria to infiltrate, leading to decay.
- As gums recede, more of the tooth under the crown is expose. This provides more space for plaque to settle and cause decay.
- Sugary and acidic foods encourage bacteria to thrive. This increases the likelihood of cavities forming beneath crowns.
- Regular check-ups are vital. Your dentist can spot problems like loose crowns or plaque buildup before they lead to cavities.
Signs of a Cavity Under a Crown
Crown cavities aren’t always easy to detect. However, certain signs may signal decay:
- Tooth Sensitivity: Sensitivity to hot or cold food could be a clue.
- Pain: Persistent pain or discomfort often points to a cavity under the crown.
- Bad Taste: A sour or unpleasant taste might suggest decay is present.
- Swollen Gums: Inflamed, sore, or bleeding gums around the crown can indicate trouble.
If you notice any of these signs, consult your dentist as soon as possible.
How are Cavities Under Crowns Diagnosed?
Dentists use several tools to identify crown cavities. X-rays are essential for revealing hidden decay. A comprehensive exam may also uncover warning signs. If the crown is loose or cracked, the dentist might remove it to investigate further.
What Happens if a Cavity Forms Under a Crown?
If decay is discovered beneath a crown, treatment is necessary. The crown will likely need to be removed to access the decayed area. Your dentist will clean and repair the tooth. Depending on the severity of the cavity, they may:
- Apply a Filling: For small cavities, a filling may be sufficient to fix the tooth.
- Replace the Crown: If decay is extensive, a new crown may be required.
- In severe cases, a root canal or extraction could be needed if the decay has reached deep into the tooth.
How to Prevent Cavities Under Crowns
Preventing crown cavities is similar to caring for natural teeth. Good oral hygiene is the key. Here’s how to protect your crowned teeth:
- Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen your teeth. Pay special attention to the gum line and the edges of the crown.
- Flossing removes trapped food and plaque around crowns. This helps prevent decay at the base of the crown.
- A fluoride rinse can help kill bacteria and reduce plaque. This reduces the risk of cavities forming.
- Cutting down on sugar and acidic foods helps slow the growth of bacteria.
- Dental check-ups every six months help identify potential problems before they worsen. Your dentist can clean areas around your crown that may be difficult to reach.
Special Care for Crowns
Crowns demand special care, particularly around the gum line. This is where plaque tends to accumulate, leading to decay. Be gentle when brushing around the crown, and avoid hard or sticky foods that could loosen it.
Can a Crown Be Replaced if a Cavity Forms?
If a cavity develops under a crown, replacement is often possible. Your dentist will remove the crown and assess the tooth. If the damage isn’t too extensive, they’ll clean the area and place a new crown. However, if the decay is deep, more complex treatment may be require.
Neglecting cavities under crowns can cause serious issues. Decay can spread deep into the tooth, leading to infection. In some cases, the tooth may become too weak to save, requiring extraction. Treating cavities early is crucial to avoiding these complications.
Conclusion
Crowns offer reliable protection for damaged teeth. However, crown cavities can still form if plaque builds up. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits are essential to prevent cavities from forming. If you experience any signs of decay, visit your dentist immediately. Proper care will ensure your crowns—and your teeth—stay strong and healthy for years to come.
Don’t wait for hidden decay to wreak havoc on your smile! Visit Norwood Dental today for a thorough consultation with our same day crown dentist, and ensure your crowns—and natural teeth—stay cavity-free for the long term.