Dental Crown Replacement
Dental crowns provide protection and strength to teeth that have been damaged by injury or decay. Dental crowns restore oral strength and functions while also enhancing the appearance of the smile. Dental crowns are durable restorations that can last for many years. However, most eventually need to be replaced.
If a dental crown becomes damaged or worn down, it compromises the natural tooth beneath and increases the risk of infection and other dental complications. Dr. Daniel M. Whiteman, of Whiteman Dental Associates, offers dental crown replacement to individuals in Brookline, MA, Boston, MA, and surrounding areas. Dental crown replacement allows our patients to continue to enjoy an attractive and fully functioning smile.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
The lifespan of a dental crown depends on a number of different factors, including the type of material used to fabricate the dental crown, how well the dental crown is cared for, and the area of the mouth where the crown is placed (some teeth receive more wear and tear than others). Even with all of these factors taken into consideration, most dental crowns will last for at least 10 years, provided a person practices good oral hygiene habits. Sometimes a crown can last 15 years before it needs to be replaced.
How Do I Know if I Need Dental Crown Replacement?
The age of a dental crown is just one potential indicator that the restoration needs to be replaced. Often, we pay more attention to how the dental crown looks and feels, and the general health of surrounding teeth and oral tissues. If any of the following conditions or symptoms are present, it may be a good sign that a person’s dental crown needs to be replaced (regardless of how long the crown has been in place):
- Visible signs of wear, tear, or damage
- Tooth decay or infection in the tooth beneath the crown
- Pain or swelling in the tissues around the dental crown
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Cosmetic blemishes on the crown (stains, discoloration, etc.)
The Replacement Procedure
Dental crown replacement is a fairly straightforward procedure, and thanks to the CEREC® system used by Dr. Whiteman, we are often able to offer our Brookline patients same-day dental crown replacement.
To start the replacement Dr. Whiteman must first remove the original crown. An adhesive is often used to weaken the cement that is holding the crown in place, so that it can be easily removed. After the crown is removed, the tooth is cleaned to rid of any additional adhesive or bonding material. If any damage or decay is present, the tooth will also be reshaped.
When the tooth has been properly prepared, Dr. Whiteman takes images of the tooth using the CEREC system. These serve as a mold for the new dental crown. Design specifications are sent to our in-office milling machine and the new crown is fabricated while the patient waits. Once the crown is complete it is bonded in place. With proper care, the new dental crown should provide patients with a strong and healthy tooth for another 10 years or more.
Contact Whiteman Dental Associates
If you have a dental crown that is showing signs of distress, it may be time for dental crown replacement. To learn more about this procedure, and whether it is the right solution for you, contact Whiteman Dental Associates online, or call (617) 731-4746 and schedule an appointment.
