Detecting Tooth Decay Under Crowns

DF3 Dental Crown

If an underlying tooth is damaged, a dental crown can be placed in order to restore the protection and aesthetics of the tooth. People will often continue their regular eating and hygiene habits after the crown is placed because they assume the tooth is now protected like their natural teeth. However, the tooth under the crown can still be affected by cavities and decay so it is necessary to practice good oral hygiene and attend your scheduled dental checkups/cleanings.

How To Tell if There is Decay Under Your Dental Crown

Decay under a crown is often hard to detect; especially if the decayed area is small. Typically, your dentist will use an x-ray to detect decay under your crown. Then, it is up to your skilled dentist to decide if the tooth has decay by reviewing the x-ray of the area. In some cases, the dentist can see the decay immediately. However, more detailed oral examination may be required.

How Can Teeth Can Decay Under an Old Crown

The possibility of tooth decay under an old crown can provoke many serious questions from patients. Patients should also know how to avoid tooth decay underneath their dental crowns. To prevent this decay from occurring, patients should also be aware of the reasons why teeth can start to decay under their dental crowns.

  • Without attending regular dental checkups, you may not know about the decay until later on which can cause more damage to your teeth. Regular dental checkups will prevent decay under a dental crown before it happens.
  • By not brushing and flossing regularly, bacteria can start building up which affects the tooth under the crown.
  • A poorly fitting dental crown can also cause a buildup of bacteria in the surrounding area and the tooth can start to decay underneath the crown.

Tooth decay underneath a crown is a frequent issue among patients. However, it is up to you to maintain your oral health to avoid damaging your teeth. If you are concerned about decay under a dental crown, your expert dentist can determine if there is decay present under a dental crown.

With proper care, dental crowns will feel just like your natural teeth. Choosing the right color for the crowns also helps them look natural. Click here to find out more information about choosing the best color for your dental crowns.