Reasons Why You May Get a Cavity Beneath Your Crown
While dental crowns are designed to protect damaged teeth, they are not completely immune to problems like cavities or caries over time. Common reasons you may notice the formation of a cavity around your dental crown can be:
- Marginal Decay: Bacteria, plaque and tartar buildup accumulate at the edge (margin) of the crown, where it meets the natural tooth, causing decay.
- Poor or Inconsistent Oral Hygiene: Plaque and tartar can build up around the biological material that remains around the crown, leaving it susceptible to bacteria and deterioration. Reliable brushing, flossing, and visits for cleanings at your local dentist in Whitby can help prevent plaque and cavities.
- Wear and Tear: Over time, tooth grinding, eating hard foods, or improper use of your teeth (using your teeth to open, cut, or hold items) can cause damage to the crown, loosening the cement or bonding material, allowing for bacteria to access more of the area around the tooth.
- Gum Recession: If you struggle with gum disease or advanced periodontitis, gum recession is often a problem. As your gum line moves, it can leave nerves, underlying bone, and other oral structures beneath the tooth vulnerable to bacteria where your dental crown does not cover.
If you suspect a problem with your dental crown in Whitby, whether you notice the signs of a cavity or suspect that your crown is failing, book an appointment at Diamond Dental Centre in Whitby.
Are Dental Implants Susceptible to Cavities?
No, dental implants are not typically susceptible to cavities because all of the tooth is removed, including the natural crown and tooth root. After this, your dental implant dentist, such as Diamond Dental Centre in Whitby, will replace the extracted tooth root with a surgical-grade implant, which fuses with the bone. Once that process is complete, it is topped off with a custom dental crown.
But, just like with your dental crowns, proper hygiene and routine care must be maintained with your dental implants to avoid failure and to protect your gums.
Signs You Have a Cavity Around Your Dental Crown
If you suspect that you may have a cavity within or around your dental crown, look out for these signs:
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sugary items.
- Pain, swelling or discomfort around the tooth or gums
- Tooth or gum discolouration
- Bad taste in the mouth or halitosis (bad breath)
Cavities beneath crowns will not improve on their own and can eventually compromise the remaining tooth structure. The earlier the problem is identified, the more treatment options may be available. If you have these signs, contact Diamond Dental Centre in Whitby to explore your personalized treatment options.
What to Do Next and When to Visit Your Dentist in Whitby
At Diamond Dental Centre in Whitby, our team uses advanced imaging and careful evaluations to assess the condition of existing restorations and identify hidden decay. Depending on the severity of the cavity, treatment may involve replacing the crown, removing decay, or exploring other restorative options.
Whether you have older dental crowns or are considering alternatives like dental implants in Whitby, regular dental care plays a major role in protecting your long-term oral health and preserving your smile.