A crown is the best option for protecting and restoring a tooth that has been broken, fractured, or impacted by decay. Dental crowns are caps composed of stainless steel, gold, porcelain, or composite resin that are affixed to a tooth to provide protection. Considering their protective nature, you must be wondering, can you get a cavity under crowns? Unfortunately, yes! It is possible to get a cavity under a crown. Let’s explore why!
Is It Possible to Get a Cavity Under a Crown?
Since your crown is composed of a unique synthetic material, a cavity cannot form inside the crown itself. On the other hand, the tooth on which your crown is affixed is still vulnerable and may get a cavity.
How Does a Cavity Develop Under a Crown?
Since the material in the crown is not vulnerable, a cavity will not form there but can form in the natural tooth under the crown. Here’s how a cavity develops under a crown:
Decay on the Margin
There may be some visible tooth tissue at the gum line where the crown meets the tooth. This is particularly valid for patients who may have receding gums due to periodontal disease. In the space left by the gap, plaque can accumulate and erode the tooth enamel just below the crown.
Wear and Tear
Crowns have an extended lifespan of up to 25 years, and even though they are robust, they are prone to deterioration. Older crowns may chip or break, allowing germs that cause cavities to enter.
Failed Root Canal
After a root canal, any decaying tissue that is not removed may develop into a bigger cavity beneath the dental crown. This can occasionally occur with molars, as the root system can be complex and split into several small or curved canals.
What Happens If You Get a Cavity Under a Crown?
The natural tooth may have a cavity if bacteria seeps under a dental crown. In order to stop the infection, the decay must be removed with a root canal. The following are a few indicators that there might be a cavity under a crown:
- Tooth sensitivity
- Tooth pain
- Aching jaw
- Swollen gums
- Fever
- Bad taste in the mouth
- A bump on the tissue
- Bad breath
Your dentist might need to remove the crown in order to remove any deteriorated material if you have a cavity beneath it. Nonetheless, your dentist can frequently fix the cavity without taking out the crown if the tooth is not fractured or infected.
Final Say!
A dental crown is one of the most popular dental procedures that can help you restore your flawless smile. Like any other treatment, people have concerns about dental crowns, too. For instance, can you get a cavity under a crown? Yes, while crowns are not prone to cavities, the exposed part of your natural teeth under the crown can get cavities.
Feel free to contact us at Smile Time Dental Houston for any of your dental queries. Schedule your appointment by calling us at (281) 245-0711.