Can Dental Crowns Be Repaired?

Dental crowns are designed to last up to 15 years, so it can be disappointing to discover that your crown has a crack or a chip. The good news is, in some cases, a damaged crown can be repaired instead of replaced.

Crowns are placed for a few reasons: to stop advanced tooth decay, affix a bridge, or repair a cracked or discolored tooth. Some materials that are used to make crowns include porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, metal, and resin.

Even with the best care and precautions, there’s still a chance for a dental crown to break, whether from an injury to the mouth, a fall, chewing something hard or sticky, teeth grinding, or regular wear and tear.

Upon discovering damage to your crown, call your dentist to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. If your dentist can’t fit you in on the same day, or if it is outside of the practice’s operating hours, conduct a self-examination in the meantime. Inspect the affected area for any missing pieces, and if the crown is very loose, remove it completely to prevent swallowing it. You should call an emergency dentist immediately if you are in extreme pain or bleeding. If the tooth pulp is exposed because of the damage, you may experience sensitivity to very hot or cold food and drinks.

If the damage is minor, a crown can be repaired with resin or composite material. Your dentist will apply the material to the chip or crack and then reshape and smooth it out. However, if it has a large chip or crack, you may need to replace the crown.

For more information or if you have a damaged crown, call or visit us at Ridge View Dental.