5 Warning Signs Your Dental Crown is Ready to Retire

Your dental crown was designed to protect your tooth from damage and decay, all the while restoring its appearance and function. But did you know these durable, lifelike prosthetics weren’t meant to last forever? In fact, with normal use, they should only last about ten years! Here are five telltale signs that the end is near for your dental crown, and what you should do if you notice them!

Receding Gums

Is there a visible line where your crown ends and your natural tooth begins? When you first got your restoration, this was likely below the gums, but if you can see this border now, it’s an important sign that it’s time for a new one!

Noticeable Wear

Does your crown look less detailed than it did when you got it? Or is it exhibiting any signs of wear such as exposure of the metal base, stains, or discoloration? These are all indications that it’s time to replace your restoration so that your tooth receives consistent protection against cavities and infections.

Swelling or Discomfort

When provided by a skilled dentist, your crown shouldn’t stand out in your smile. In fact, over time, you may have even forgotten which tooth its on. However, if you begin to feel discomfort or sensitivity around it, this may mean you have a cavity underneath, which means it’s time to visit the dentist, stat!

Direct Damage

While crowns are made of durable, lifelike materials, they aren’t indestructible. If yours has incurred damage such as a chip or crack, it’s time to replace it, as it can’t do the job it was designed to do if it’s broken!

Old Age

Finally, dental crowns have a shelf-life of about 10 years. While that doesn’t mean you need to immediately replace it the second it hits the decade mark, if it’s getting up there in years, it’s a good idea to have it evaluated by your dentist, just to be safe!

Remember, your dental crown wasn’t meant to last a lifetime, but with proper care and use, it can still restore your smile for years to come. If you are noticing any of the above indications that it may be time to replace your prosthetic, talk to your dentist today and upgrade your grin with a dazzling new dental crown!

About Dr. Liu

Dr. Xinxing Liu earned her undergraduate degree at Washington University in St. Louis, and her dental degree at Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine in Florida. She is pleased to help treat patients here in Dallas and is here to help you fashion a fancy new crown when yours is ready to retire! To schedule an appointment for dental crowns at Ross Avenue Family Dental of Dallas, visit our website or call 469-210-7223.