Dental crowns are a common and essential dental restoration used to protect weakened teeth, improve appearance, and restore functionality. But have you ever wondered, “Can your mouth reject a crown?”
Understanding the possibility of dental crown failure is crucial for anyone considering or currently wearing one. These issues, often referred to as “crown rejection,” can affect the success and longevity of the restoration.
Let’s find out what are the causes of crown rejection and failure and how you can prolong the longevity of your cap.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a customized cap that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth. Its main function is to restore the tooth’s original shape, size, strength, and appearance.
Crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these. They are crafted to blend seamlessly with the appearance of your natural teeth.
Can Your Mouth Reject a Crown?
When people refer to “crown rejection,” they often mean other issues such as discomfort, improper fit, allergic reactions, or complications like infections. Therefore, rejection of a crown technically means that there can be problems with a dental crown that require attention and correction.
In very rare cases, your mouth can completely “reject” a crown due to an allergic reaction. It is quite uncommon, however, since dentists typically ask patients about any known sensitivities or metal-related medical conditions before recommending a crown made of gold or other metals.
When Can Your Mouth Reject a Crown?
Improper Fit
A frequent issue with dental crowns is improper placement over the affected tooth. If the crown is not fitted correctly, it can disrupt your bite. You might notice that when you clench your teeth, the crown feels uneven, resulting in an uncomfortable or misaligned bite.
Poor crown placement can also allow bacteria to enter, potentially affecting the underlying tooth and leading to discomfort and potentially expensive repair work.
Allergic Reactions
Dental crowns can be constructed from a variety of materials, such as zirconia (a metal-free crystal), various metals, porcelain, resin, and others.
Though it’s not very common, some individuals may have allergies to these materials, particularly metals. If a patient has such an allergy, they might experience an allergic reaction after the crown is placed, causing your mouth to “reject” the crown.
Infection
In rare cases, an infection can occur around the dental crown due to very poor oral hygiene. This is usually caused by the bacteria trapped beneath the crown, which can lead to extreme pain if left untreated.
Gum Disease
If the crown margin is not positioned properly, it can trap bacteria, which may result in periodontal disease. This gum condition can cause inflammation and damage to the gums and supporting bone structure, potentially causing tooth loss if not addressed.
Damage to Supporting Tooth
The natural tooth supporting a crown can still be vulnerable to damage or decay. Even though the crown itself is durable, the underlying tooth can experience decay if the seal between the crown and tooth becomes compromised. Excessive force or trauma can also crack or fracture the supporting tooth, potentially leading to crown failure.
Nerve Damage
Each tooth contains a soft pulp at its center, where the nerves are found. In some instances, prepping your tooth for placing a dental crown can irritate these nerves and lead to considerable pain. This discomfort might occur right after the procedure, but it can also develop weeks or even months later.
Signs of a Dental Crown Failure
- persistent pain or increased sensitivity, especially to hot or cold foods and drinks
- An uneven bite or discomfort when chewing
- The crown feels loose or shifts, indicating poor placement or that the cement or adhesive has worn away
- Swelling, redness, or inflammation around the crown
- A perpetual bad taste or odor in your mouth
- Cracks, chips, or visible damage to the crown itself
- Gum tissue around the crown that has begun to recede or pull away
What to Do if Your Crown Falls Out
Retrieve the Crown
If possible, recover the fallen crown and handle it with care to avoid any additional damage.
Inspect the Crown & Tooth
Examine both the inside of the crown and the tooth for any debris or damage. Gently clean the area if needed.
Contact Your Dentist
Get in touch with your dentist as soon as you can. They will provide guidance on the next steps. If it’s during office hours, call to arrange an appointment. Check if your dental office offers emergency services or has an on-call dentist for after-hours or weekends.
Temporary Measures
If you can’t visit your dentist right away, consider using over-the-counter dental cement to temporarily secure the crown. Follow the instructions on the package carefully. Avoid using household glues as they are not safe for dental use.
Avoid Certain Foods
Avoid chewing on the side of the mouth where the crown is missing until you can see your dentist. Try to avoid sticky or hard foods that might cause further damage.
Maintain Oral Hygiene
Continue brushing and flossing carefully, avoiding the area around the missing crown. This will help prevent infection and keep your mouth as clean as possible.
How to Prevent Crown Failure
To keep your new dental crown in optimal condition and ensure its longevity, consider the following important tips:
- Behave gently with the crown.
- Practice and maintain good oral hygiene.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups.
- Address any teeth grinding.
- Quit smoking.
- Go for regular, professional cleanings.
- Avoid excessive force.
Conclusion
A dental crown plays a vital role in sustaining oral health, but like any dental restoration, it is not immune to wear and tear and may eventually fail. Knowing, “Can your mouth reject a crown?” and recognizing the signs is important to prevent further damage and keep your smile healthy.
If you notice any symptoms that indicate crown failure, it is crucial to seek professional dental assistance promptly to address the issue and extend the lifespan of your dental crown.
Begin your journey towards a complete and healthy smile by scheduling a consultationwith River Walk Dental.
FAQ
Can crowns cause gum problems?
Yes, poorly fitted crowns or improper placement can lead to gum irritation, inflammation, or infection.
Can your tooth reject a crown?
Issues such as poor fit, allergies, or infections can cause discomfort or problems with the crown, causing “crown rejection.” Addressing these issues with your dentist can help resolve any complications.
