Dental crowns are a protective and aesthetic solution if you have damaged or weakened teeth. Designed to restore the shape, size, and functionality of a tooth, crowns can last for years but even the most durable dental crowns are not immune to damage. If you're exploring options for dental crowns in Idaho Falls, this guide will help you understand what causes them to crack and explain how to spot a broken dental crown.
Dental crowns are exposed to constant chewing, grinding, and other pressures from everyday activities. Over time, this wear and tear can weaken the material, especially if the crown is several years old.
A sudden impact—such as a fall, car accident, or sports-related injury—can easily crack a dental crown. Crowns, while strong, are not indestructible and can fracture under sudden force.
Bruxism exerts excessive pressure on dental crowns. Over time, this repeated stress can cause the crown to crack, especially if it is made from a more brittle material like porcelain.
Chewing on hard objects such as ice, hard candies, or even non-food items like pens can exert undue pressure on your dental crown. Even the strongest materials have limits, and consistent exposure to such forces can lead to cracks or chips.
Improperly fitted crowns can create uneven pressure distribution when you bite or chew. This imbalance can weaken the crown over time and make it more prone to cracking.
The type of material used for your crown can significantly impact its durability. Metal and zirconia crowns are known for their strength and resistance to cracks, whereas porcelain and composite materials, while aesthetically pleasing, are more susceptible to damage.
A cracked crown is not always the result of external damage. Decay beneath the crown can weaken the underlying tooth structure, making the crown more vulnerable to cracking.
The warning signs of dental crown failure include the following symptoms:
One of the most telltale signs of a cracked dental crown is discomfort or pain when applying pressure, such as while chewing food or biting down on something. This pain may be sharp and sudden or dull and persistent, depending on the severity of the crack.
Cracks or chips that are visible to the naked eye are an obvious indicator that your dental crown has sustained damage. These cracks might appear as fine lines or more significant fractures, depending on the material and the nature of the damage. However, not all cracks are visible, especially those located on the underside of the crown or between teeth.
A properly fitted dental crown should remain firmly in place. If you notice that your crown feels loose or moves when you eat or touch it with your tongue, this could be a sign that it has cracked or the adhesive holding it in place has deteriorated.
A cracked dental crown can sometimes expose the tooth structure underneath. This exposure often results in sharp pain or sensitivity, particularly when the tooth comes into contact with hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
Gum irritation may manifest as swelling, redness, or tenderness in the gums around the affected tooth. In some cases, the inflammation may also lead to bleeding when brushing or flossing near the crown.
If you notice that your bite feels different or that chewing feels awkward or uncomfortable, it may indicate damage to your crown. A cracked crown can alter the way your teeth fit together, resulting in an uneven bite which may lead to secondary issues, such as jaw pain, headaches, or strain on other teeth.
Another subtle sign of a cracked crown is food becoming trapped around or under the crown more frequently than usual. This may happen because the crack creates small gaps between the crown and the surrounding teeth or gums.
Brushing twice daily and flossing help prevent decay under the crown, ensuring the underlying tooth remains strong.
Steer clear of chewing ice, hard candies, or other hard foods that may damage the crown.
If you grind your teeth at night or play contact sports, wearing a mouthguard can protect your crowns from unnecessary pressure or impact.
Routine visits to your dentist ensure early detection of any issues with your crown or the surrounding teeth.
Cracks in dental crowns can result from normal wear, accidents, or bruxism. If you suspect your dental crown is damaged or want to learn more about dental crowns in Idaho Falls, schedule your appointment with Taylorview Dental today.
