Dental crowns act as a safeguard for damaged teeth, often leaving us with the question: Can these protective crowns, themselves, develop cavities?
The answer is simple — while the crown itself is immune to decay, the real concern lies at the crown's base and the tooth beneath.
This guide aims to clear up common misconceptions on how to protect your dental investment. Understanding the connection between crowns and oral hygiene can help you prevent issues that compromise the health of the tooth underneath.
Let’s dive into the essentials of crown care and the steps you can take to ensure your crowned teeth remain healthy and strong.
Quick Answer: Do Crowns Get Cavities?
No, dental crowns themselves cannot get cavities since they're made from materials like porcelain or metal that are impervious to decay.
However, it's crucial to maintain the health of the gum line and remaining tooth structure around the crown to prevent decay.
Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are essential to detect and address any issues early on, such as cavities forming underneath the margin (edge) of the crown. While the crown provides a protective barrier, the natural tooth beneath it can still be vulnerable to decay if not properly cared for.
Early intervention is key to preserving both the functionality of the crown and the overall health of your mouth.
Recurrent Decay: Cavities Around Crown Margin
Recurrent decay, a common dental issue, specifically refers to the development of cavities around the margin of a dental crown or filling. Factors such as an improper fit of the crown, inadequate oral hygiene practices, or the accumulation of plaque can all contribute to the formation of recurrent decay.
When the margin of a dental crown is compromised, it creates an entry point for bacteria to infiltrate the underlying natural tooth structure. Once bacteria gain access to this vulnerable area, they can cause decay and potentially lead to more significant oral health problems if left untreated.
Prevention is key when it comes to addressing recurrent decay around crown margins.
Maintaining a meticulous oral hygiene routine that includes regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash can help minimize the risk of decay.
Scheduling routine dental check-ups is essential for monitoring the condition of your dental crowns and identifying any signs of recurrent decay early on.
Why a Crown Itself Can't Get a Cavity
A dental crown acts as a protective shield for a damaged tooth. Its purpose is to restore strength, functionality, and aesthetics to the tooth. Crowns are designed and fabricated to ensure a seamless fit over the tooth's surface, leaving no room for bacteria or food particles to accumulate and cause cavities.
The materials used for crowns, such as porcelain or metal alloys, are highly resistant to decay. Unlike natural tooth enamel, these materials do not contain the minerals necessary for cavity formation. Therefore, the crown itself remains impervious to cavities.
Do I Still Have to Brush & Floss a Crown?
Yes, even though the crown itself cannot develop cavities, it is crucial to continue practicing good oral hygiene habits. Brushing and flossing regularly will help maintain the health of the underlying tooth structure and the surrounding gum tissue.
Food particles and bacteria can still accumulate around the margin where the crown meets the tooth. By diligently brushing twice a day with a fluoridated toothpaste and flossing at least once a day, you can ensure the longevity of both the crown and the overall health of your mouth.
How Do I Know If I'm Getting a Cavity Under a Crown?
Detecting a cavity beneath a dental crown can be challenging since the crown itself conceals the underlying tooth structure. However, certain signs may indicate the presence of a cavity.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is essential to consult your dentist:
Increased sensitivity or pain around the crowned tooth
Discoloration or darkening of the tooth near the gumline
Visible cracks or fractures on the crown
Noticeable changes in the appearance of the gum tissue surrounding the crown
Your dentist will perform a thorough examination and may recommend X-rays or other diagnostic tests to determine the presence of a cavity under the crown.
*It’s important to note that the best way to diagnose a cavity under a crown is with bitewing x-rays, taken at regular intervals (often 12-18 months), combined with a thorough clinical exam.
What Happens If I Don't Fix a Cavity Under a Crown?
If left untreated, a cavity beneath a dental crown can cause severe complications. The decay will continue to progress.
Over time, this can weaken the tooth, compromise the crown's stability, and eventually reach the nerve of the tooth — leading to pain, discomfort, and even the loss of the tooth.
It’s vital to address a cavity beneath a crown as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure the longevity of both the crown and the underlying tooth.
Can I Fix a Cavity Under a Crown With a Filling Instead of a New Crown?
In certain cases, it may be possible to fix a cavity beneath a crown with a filling rather than replacing the entire crown. The feasibility of this option depends on the extent and location of the decay, the condition of the crown itself, and the judgment of your dentist.
Your dentist will assess the situation and recommend the most appropriate course of action. In some cases, a new crown may be necessary to effectively treat the cavity and preserve the tooth's integrity.
Final Thoughts
Dental crowns offer remarkable protection and restoration for damaged teeth. While the crowns themselves are not susceptible to cavities, it's crucial to maintain good oral hygiene practices to prevent the development of cavities around the crown margins.
Regular dental check-ups are essential to monitor the condition of your crowns and identify any potential issues, such as cavities beneath the crown. Remember, early detection and prompt treatment are key to preserving the health of both your crowns and the underlying teeth.
By practicing excellent oral hygiene, staying vigilant for any signs of trouble, and maintaining regular dental visits, you can enjoy the benefits of dental crowns while safeguarding your oral health for years to come.
FAQs
What happens if you get a cavity on a crown?
The crown itself is not susceptible to cavities. If a cavity develops on a tooth with a crown, it typically occurs at the margin where the crown meets the tooth. This situation requires prompt dental attention to prevent the decay from spreading beneath the crown, potentially compromising the tooth's integrity. Your dentist may need to remove and replace the crown to treat the cavity.
How often do crowns get cavities?
Cavities can develop around a crown's margins if oral hygiene is neglected, but it's not the crown itself that gets a cavity. The frequency depends on the individual's dental care routine, diet, and how well the crown fits. Regular check-ups can help catch and prevent decay around crowns.
How do you prevent cavities under a crown?
Preventing cavities under a crown involves maintaining excellent oral hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing daily, especially around the base of the crown. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are also crucial for detecting potential problems early.
Is it better to fill a cavity or get a crown?
The decision between filling a cavity or getting a crown depends on the extent of tooth decay. Fillings are suitable for small to moderate cavities, while crowns are recommended for more extensive decay or when the tooth's structure is compromised. Your dentist will advise the best option based on your specific case.
Can a dentist fix decay under a crown?
Yes, a dentist can fix decay under a crown. The process typically involves removing the existing crown, treating the decay, and placing a new crown to ensure the tooth is properly protected and restored. If the decayed area is small and easy to access, it may be possible to “patch” the tooth with a filling, without needing to replace the crown.
Are crowns less likely to get cavities?
The material of crowns themselves cannot develop cavities, but the tooth beneath and around the crown's margins can. Crowns can help protect a vulnerable tooth from further decay, but they do not make the tooth immune to cavities without proper oral hygiene and care.
Why do dentists push crowns?
Dentists recommend crowns to protect, cover, and restore the shape of your teeth when fillings don’t solve the problem. Crowns are “pushed” for teeth that are significantly decayed, weakened, cracked, or have had root canal treatment, providing strength and preventing further damage or loss of the tooth. The recommendation for a crown is based on ensuring the best long-term health for the tooth and mouth. While a filling might be cheaper, it’s important to remember that dentists usually only recommend treatment that will last for many years.
* Though the author of this post is a licensed dentist in the state of Kansas, this information is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Please use your best judgment and contact emergency medical services in the event of an emergency.