Dental crowns are usually reliable dental prosthetics designed to last for decades.
However, accidents happen, and sometimes porcelain can chip off your crown. Usually this occurs through the fault of no one in particular — you just bite down on the wrong food at the wrong time, and some of the outer porcelain shears right off of the crown.
If you find yourself in this predicament, here's a guide to help you navigate the next steps.
How Do Dental Crowns Chip?
Unfortunately, chipped porcelain is a fairly common problem with porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. It often occurs due to one of the following reasons:
Dental trauma (such as impact to the front teeth) or biting down on hard objects can chip a crown.
Tooth grinding or clenching during sleep can contribute to wear and tear.
Existing imperfections in the crown can be weak spots that lead to chipping or shearing.
Immediate Actions to Take After Chipping a Porcelain Crown
Refrain from chewing on the side where the crown has chipped to avoid further damage.
If the chipped area is sharp or causing gum irritation, use dental wax to temporarily cover the area.
Maintain a soft diet to prevent any further damage before you get to the dentist.
Visit Your Dentist: Sooner Rather Than Later
Don't rely on at-home fixes; see your dentist for a professional assessment. It’s possible that you will need a new crown, although small chips can often simply be smoothed. Here's what to expect next.
What to Expect at the Dental Office
The dentist might take X-rays to assess the condition of the tooth underneath.
A small chip might be smoothed or patched, while larger chips often require crown replacement.
Discuss potential costs and treatment timelines with your dentist; insurance might cover part of it.
Is a Chipped Crown a Dental Emergency?
Generally, a chipped crown is not considered a dental emergency unless it's causing severe pain or showing indications of infection. In most cases, the chipped porcelain doesn't compromise the underlying tooth, as the metal substructure of the crown usually maintains a seal over the tooth.
While minor discomfort from the rough edges of the porcelain might be unpleasant, it doesn't usually escalate to an emergency unless the edges are so sharp that they cause severe pain.
Prevention: How to Avoid Future Chips
Opt for crowns made from stronger materials if you're prone to grinding your teeth — this is a discussion that you should have with your dentist (he or she will understand the strength of your bite and be able to recommend a suitable material).
Wearing a mouthguard during physical activities can add a layer of protection.
Manage stress (or wear a nightguard) as it can contribute to teeth grinding, which in turn can chip your crown.
Avoid using your teeth as tools, such as tearing open packaging or cutting fishing line.
Final Thoughts
Chipping a dental crown is inconvenient, but with swift action and a trip to the dentist, you can get your dental health back on track. Consider future preventative measures to protect your investment.
FAQs
Can a chipped crown be repaired or does it have to be replaced?
Small chips can sometimes be smoothed or repaired, but major damage usually necessitates a new crown. The first option is generally to smooth the fractured portion — if the porcelain can be smoothed in a way that restores comfort, it often isn’t necessary to replace the crown. Some dentists have repair kits for bonding back fractured porcelain, while other dentists avoid doing this bonding because it is highly likely to fail.
What are the risks of ignoring a chipped crown?
If the underlying tooth is still sealed by the crown, and if the chipped porcelain isn’t sharp or painful, there isn’t much risk. However, it is challenging to know if the underlying tooth is still sealed without visiting your dentist. And even if the chip is small, it is possible that the crown will be uncomfortably sharp or else shaped in a way that traps food.
Can I glue back a piece of porcelain that chipped off my crown?
Using any sort of dental glue outside of a dentist’s office is not recommended. At-home fixes are temporary and can lead to more serious problems. If the porcelain gets glued on in a way that interferes with your bite, it can lead to severe discomfort in the tooth. Often, a bite that is too high by only 0.1 mm will trigger pain and discomfort.
How long do dental crowns usually last?
Dental crowns theoretically last for 5 to 15 years, depending on various factors including material, oral habits, and home care. However, it is very common for crowns to last 20+ years, or even a full lifetime.
* 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.