Bad Fitting Crown Symptoms: Signs You Shouldn't Ignore

Imagine finally getting that shiny new dental crown to restore the functionality and aesthetics of your teeth, only to find yourself experiencing discomfort and pain. This unpleasant surprise may be due to a bad-fitting crown. In this article, we’ll delve into the indicators of poorly fitted crowns, the significance of accurate fittings, diagnostic methods, prevalent reasons, potential treatments, and proactive steps you can undertake to guarantee your crown is precisely fitted, contributing to a comfortable and pleasant smile.

What is the Definition of Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns, often known as caps, are artificial coverings crafted from various substances such as ceramic, porcelain, metal, or a mixture of these. They are employed to encase teeth that are damaged or decayed. A dental crown serves not only to augment the look and durability of a tooth but also to boost its functionality.

The Importance of a Properly Fitted Crown

A properly fitted crown is crucial for maintaining oral health, ensuring optimal functionality, and preventing unnecessary discomfort. A well-fitted crown should blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, provide a comfortable bite, and properly distribute the forces during chewing. When a crown is improperly fitted, it may result in various symptoms and issues affecting your everyday activities.

Common Symptoms of Bad Fitting Crowns

• Discomfort or Pain

A key indicator of an ill-fitting crown is discomfort or soreness, which might present as a persistent throb or acute pain during biting, chewing, or sometimes spontaneously. The pain may radiate to the surrounding gums and teeth, causing further discomfort.

• Gum Irritation

Ill-fitting crowns can irritate the gums, leading to inflammation and tenderness. You may notice redness, swelling, or even bleeding gums near the crown area. This can make brushing and flossing difficult, potentially leading to oral hygiene issues.

• Difficulty Chewing

If your crown is not properly aligned, it can interfere with your bite and chewing pattern. When your teeth do not come together correctly, it can put excess pressure on certain areas, leading to discomfort and difficulty while eating.

• Sensitivity to Temperature Changes

Do you find yourself wincing in pain when consuming hot or cold food and beverages? Sensitivity to temperature changes can be an indication of a poorly fitted crown. The exposed tooth structure due to an ill-fitting crown can cause heightened sensitivity.

• Tooth Decay and Discoloration

An ill-fitting crown can create small gaps between the crown and the natural tooth, allowing food particles and bacteria to accumulate.

Eventually, this may cause tooth deterioration, staining, or halitosis. If you notice any changes in the appearance or health of the crowned tooth, it may be a sign of a bad-fitting crown.

How to Diagnose a Bad-Fitting Crown

• Examination by a Dentist

If you suspect your crown isn’t fitting right, it’s crucial to prioritize a prompt visit to your dentist for a thorough examination. Prepare for a detailed examination encompassing the crown, adjacent teeth, and gums to ensure a comprehensive evaluation. Your Plano dentist will check for any signs of discomfort or damage and assess the fit and stability of the crown.

• X-ray Imaging

X-ray imaging can provide a detailed view of the underlying structures and help identify any issues associated with the crown. It can include problems with the root canal, bone loss, or other dental complications that might be contributing to the ill-fitting crown.

• Bite Test

The bite test examines the occlusion, analyzing the interaction of upper and lower teeth when the mouth closes. By examining your bite alignment, your dentist can identify any discrepancies that could be the result of an ill-fitting crown.

Causes of Ill-fitting Crowns

• Incorrect Impressions

An accurate impression is crucial for a well-fitted crown. If the initial impression taken by your dentist is not precise, it can lead to a crown that does not fit properly. Factors such as inadequate bite registration or improper tray selection can contribute to an inaccurate impression.

• Poor Crown Design or Fabrication

The design and fabrication process of a crown play a vital role in its fit. If the crown is poorly designed or fabricated, it may not align properly with your natural teeth. This may lead to discomfort, challenges in chewing, and other issues linked with poor fittings.

• Improper Bonding or Cementation

The way the crown is bonded or cemented onto the tooth can impact its fit and stability. If the bonding material or cement used is not applied correctly or if excess material remains, the crown may not fit snugly, leading to various symptoms of ill-fitting crowns.

• Changes in Oral Structures

Over time, the oral structures, including the gums and bones, can undergo changes. It might happen as a result of periodontal disease, teeth movement, bone deterioration, or injury. When these changes occur, the crown that once fits perfectly may no longer align correctly, causing discomfort and other issues.

Remedies for Bad Fitting Crowns

• Crown Adjustment

In some cases, a bad-fitting crown can be improved through crown adjustment. Your dentist may carefully reshape or add material to the crown to ensure a better fit. This is often a non-invasive and cost-effective solution that can alleviate discomfort and restore functionality.

• Crown Replacement

If the ill-fitting crown cannot be adequately resolved through adjustment, your dentist may recommend crown replacement. It involves removing the existing crown and creating a new one that fits accurately. Crown replacement ensures a better fit and can resolve any pain or discomfort associated with the previous crown.

• Orthodontic Treatment

In situations where the crown’s misalignment is due to significant changes in oral structures, orthodontic treatment may be necessary.

Orthodontic treatments, including braces or aligners, can adjust the positioning of teeth, facilitating correct placement and alignment of crowns.

• Dental Implants

For severely damaged or misaligned crowns, dental implants may be the best long-term solution. Dental implants involve surgically placing an artificial tooth root in the jawbone, which can then support a new crown. This option provides a stable and durable solution for replacing the ill-fitting crown.

Prevention Tips for a Properly Fitted Crown

• Choose a Skilled and Experienced Dentist

The choice of a skilled and experienced dentist is essential to guarantee the proper fit of your crown. Look for a Plano dentist who has a proven track record in crown placements and has the expertise to handle any related complications. When seeking dental crowns in Plano, make sure to prioritize a dentist with a strong background in this specialized procedure.

• Prioritize Regular Dental Check-ups

Periodic dental visits give your dentist the opportunity to carefully assess the health and condition of your dental crowns. Spotting any problems early can avert pain and reduce the necessity for more complex interventions.

• Communicate Your Concerns and Expectations

Effective communication with your dentist in Plano is essential throughout the crown placement process at tru Plano Dental. Clearly express your concerns and expectations regarding the fit, appearance, and comfort of your crown to ensure the best possible outcome.

• Follow Good Oral Hygiene Practices

Keeping up with excellent dental hygiene is essential for extending the life of your crown and preserving overall mouth health. Regular brushing and flossing, using an antimicrobial mouth rinse, and scheduling professional dental cleanings are key steps. A healthy mouth can help reduce the likelihood of complications that might impact the fit of your crown.

Conclusion

Bad fitting crown symptoms can be distressing and impact your quality of life. Identifying these symptoms and understanding their causes is the first step toward finding a solution. If you experience discomfort, gum irritation, difficulty chewing, sensitivity, or signs of tooth decay near the crown, it’s crucial to seek professional help like Tru Plano Dental.

Opting for a proficient dentist, maintaining consistent dental appointments, and adhering to effective oral hygiene routines can lower the chances of encountering poorly fitted crowns. It’s important to remember that a properly fitted crown ensures comfort, functionality, and a smile you can be confident about.