What Happens If You Have a Cavity Under a Crown?

Dental crowns are a wonderful option for restoring weakened or damaged teeth, but that tooth still can’t avoid future problems. For example, one common problem many patients face is cavities that form under the crown. If you ignore that cavity underneath the dental crown, discomfort, infection, or possibly tooth loss or the need for a tooth extraction could occur. If you have any doubts, it’s best to get a dentist near you to diagnose the tooth and treat it promptly.

How Do Cavities Form Under a Crown?

Although crowns are expected to be protective and strengthen the remaining tooth structure, they are not covering the whole tooth. The most susceptible part is the margin, the place where the crown and the natural tooth meet. It can become a site where plaque, bacteria, and food particles accumulate, leading to decay beneath the crown from poor oral hygiene over time. 

The cement that attaches the crown may sometimes be worn or washed away creating little holes or spaces. Such cavities could allow bacteria to seep in the tooth and even cause a cavity under the crown.

Symptoms of a Cavity Under a Crown.

The crown covers most of the tooth hence it might be hard to detect decay at an early stage. However, in this case, the following are some warning signs to be considered:

• Tooth sensitivity: Pain/discomfort in eating hot, cold or sweet food.
• Unbearable pain: Dull aching pains or sharp pain on the side of the crowned tooth.
• Swelling/redness: Irritation of the tooth gums around the crowned tooth.
• Bad Breath Odor: A persistent bad taste may be evidence of bacteria.
• Dark Line Visibility: There are cases where the visible decay at the level of the crown may be seen.

When you develop any of these symptoms, it is imperative to visit a dental clinic in Richmond so that you can be examined.

Dangers of Delaying Treatment for a Cavity

When you leave a hole under your crown and this issue is not cared about it may become even worse. Since the process of decay may proceed further and involve the tooth and may also trigger an infection because it may reach the nerve.

The outcome may be the root canal treatment or in the worst case, the tooth may be extracted.

Even cavities that are not treated may jeopardize the health of your dental crown. In case the tooth is too decayed, your crown can become loose or fall off altogether.

Options for Treating Cavities Under a Crown

The extent of tooth decay that has taken place will determine how the tooth will be treated:

1. Crown removal and replacement –When the cavity is small, your dentist can remove the crown, then clean it and place a new crown over the tooth.
   
2. Root canal therapy – In case the decay has gone to the pulp, root canal may need to be performed before a new crown is made.
   
3. Tooth extraction – When the tooth is not replaceable, it may only be extracted, after which a dental implant or bridge can be fitted.

Your dentist will suggest what the best option is, based on the extent of the problem.

Preventing Cavities Under Crowns

Preventative care is always better than corrective care. You can take a few actions to care for your crowned teeth:  

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
  
• Floss carefully around your crown to remove any food particles that may have become trapped.
  
• Consider using an antibacterial mouthwash to help decrease plaque buildup.
  
• Minimize sugary snacks and drinks that can cause tooth decay.
  
• Attend your dental hygienist or dentist for regular re-evaluations and professional dental cleanings.

Conclusion

The presence of a cavity beneath a crown is a severe issue, and, nevertheless, if you are timely, you will be able to save your tooth and restore your dental health. In the event of symptoms such as pain, sensitivity, or any other types of warning signs, do not wait before you can visit your dentist to have your dental check-up. In case of professional therapy and preventive measures, turn to your local dentist, River Road Dental, the best dental clinic in Richmond  where you can find all types of care: routine check-ups and dental crowns restorations, among others, with the help of our professional team.