Dental crowns are among the simplest fixes when a tooth is damaged or decayed. They’re strong and reliable, but they’re not unbreakable. Sometimes crowns crack or chip. Maybe you bite down on something hard, perhaps it’s just regular wear from years of chewing, or maybe you take a tumble and hit your mouth. If you spot a crack or chip in your crown, don’t stress. Here’s what you should do next.

What’s a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a cap that covers a damaged tooth to prevent further damage. It restores the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance. Dentists make crowns from all kinds of materials — porcelain, metal, and ceramic. They’re made to last, but they can still break if you’re not careful or if they get old.

Why Do Crowns Crack or Chip?

Knowing what went wrong helps you avoid it in the future. Here are some usual suspects:

• Biting hard foods: Ice, hard candy, nuts — these can put a lot of pressure on your crown and cause it to chip or crack.
• Grinding your teeth: If you grind your teeth at night (dentists call it bruxism), your crown is under immense pressure and can eventually give out.
• Accidents: Falls, sports injuries, or even just bumping your mouth can do some damage.
• Old age: Crowns aren’t forever. They wear down, especially on teeth you use for heavy chewing.

What To Do When Your Crown Cracks or Chips

So, your crown’s got a problem. First, don’t freak out — it probably won’t hurt much right away. Take a second, look in the mirror, and see what’s going on.

• Try not to use that tooth for chewing. Stick to the other side of your mouth so you don’t make things worse.
• If a piece broke off, save it. Your dentist should take a look and see if it fits back in.
• If the edge feels sharp, cover it up with dental wax or even sugar-free gum until you can get to the dentist. That way, you won’t cut your tongue or cheek.

Call your dentist. They’ve seen this several times before and will know exactly what to do. Sometimes they can fix the crown right there; other times, you’ll need a new one.

How To Keep Your Crown Safe

• Don’t chew hard foods using the crown. Skip the ice, hard candy, and anything else that seems risky.
• If you grind your teeth at night, get a nightguard. It makes a difference.
• Keep up with your dental checkups. Your dentist will spot issues before they become a big deal.
• Watch your diet. Go for softer foods when you can, and mix it up with healthy choices.

A cracked or chipped crown can be annoying, but it’s not the end of the world, and dentists deal with this all the time. Act fast, avoid using the tooth, and book that dental appointment. If you’re near Cedar Grove, give Cedar Grove Dental Group a call. We’ll help you fix it up and keep your smile in good shape.

FAQs

1. How long does a dental crown last?
   A well-maintained dental crown can last between 10 and 15 years. However, factors like diet, grinding, and oral hygiene can affect its longevity.
   
2. Can a cracked dental crown be fixed?
   In some cases, a cracked dental crown can be repaired. However, if the damage is significant, your dentist may need to replace it.
   
3. What should I do if my crown falls off?
   If your crown falls off, save it and contact your dentist immediately. They will clean the underlying tooth and reattach or replace the crown.
   
4. Can I fix a cracked crown at home?
   It’s not recommended to fix a cracked crown at home. Always seek professional dental care for a proper assessment and repair.
5. Will a cracked crown cause pain?
   A cracked crown may not always cause pain, but it can expose the underlying tooth, leading to discomfort or sensitivity. If pain develops, contact your dentist as soon as possible.