Can dental crowns get cavities?

Crowns are tooth-shaped caps that cover teeth. They are often made of composite resin, steel, gold, or porcelain. Crowns restore and protect teeth that have been injured, cracked, or significantly decayed. They are also used for teeth that cannot tolerate new fillings. 

Although the crowns themselves cannot get cavities, the underlying root and the area where the crown attaches to the tooth are susceptible to decay. Bacteria and plaque can build up near the gumline, increasing the risk of cavities. 

Additionally, the older a crown is, the more wear and tear it will have. A chipped, cracked, or worn crown may let bacteria in, and a cavity can develop. If a crown is poorly fitted, the tooth may be susceptible to cavities.

How Cavities Under Crowns are Fixed

If you develop a large enough cavity on a tooth with a crown, a dentist may remove the crown to fix it and then put on a new crown. If the cavity is shallower, a dentist will often fill it as normal without removing the crown.

Cavities around or under crowns should be taken care of promptly. If left alone, they could lead to a root canal or extraction.

Preventing Tooth Decay Under Crowns

You can prevent cavities by:

• Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily.

• Attending regular dental cleanings and checkups.

• Eating a nutritional diet and avoiding sugary drinks and foods.

You may have a cavity under a crown if you experience severe pain around the tooth. However, the only true way to know you have a cavity is by visiting a dentist and getting dental X-rays.

Dental X-rays can help determine if there is a problem under the crown before the cavity develops further. At Ridge View Dental, we provide expert care, including X-rays and cavity treatments, to help keep your smile healthy. Contact us today to schedule your appointment!