Detecting Decay: Signs of Tooth Decay Under a Crown

Detecting Decay: Signs of Tooth Decay Under a Crown

Jun 01, 2024

Keeping your teeth healthy is crucial to your general well-being. Our teeth play a vital role in daily activities such as eating and speaking. However, despite our best efforts, dental decay can still arise, even underneath dental crowns. In this blog post, we’ll get into tooth decay under crown symptoms and why early detection is crucial for preserving oral health.

Understanding Dental Crowns

Dental crowns in Livermore, CA are dental restorations used to cover damaged or weakened teeth. They serve to strengthen and protect the underlying tooth structure, restoring its function and appearance. These crowns are often made from materials like quality porcelain, ceramic, or metal alloys, depending on the individual needs and preferences.

  • Poor Oral Hygiene: Neglecting regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings can lead to plaque buildup, which, if left untreated, can cause decay under a crown.
  • Recurrent Decay: In some cases, decay may occur around the margins of the crown due to inadequate sealing or bonding, allowing bacteria to infiltrate and cause damage to the underlying tooth structure.
  • High Sugar Diet: Eating and drinking sugary foods and beverages raises the risk of tooth decay because sugars are a food source for dental bacteria that produce acids that eat up tooth enamel and can cause decay under a crown.
  • Previous Dental Issues: Teeth that have undergone extensive dental work or have a history of decay may be more prone to developing decay under a crown, especially if the underlying tooth structure is compromised.

Tooth decay under crown symptoms

  • Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to cold, hot, or sweet foods and beverages may indicate decay under a crown as the underlying tooth structure becomes exposed to external stimuli.
  • Discomfort or Pain: Persistent discomfort or pain, especially when biting down or chewing, can indicate decay under a crown as the damaged tooth structure becomes inflamed or infected.
  • Changes in Crown Appearance: Any changes in the crown’s appearance, such as discoloration, chipping, or visible gaps between the crown and the tooth, may indicate underlying decay or other issues that require attention.
  • Bad Breath or Taste: Bacteria associated with decay can produce foul-smelling breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth, which may be noticeable even after brushing and flossing.

Diagnosis of Tooth Decay Under a Crown

  • Visual Examination: During a visual examination, dentists in Livermore, CA, inspect the crown and adjacent teeth for any visible signs of decay, such as discoloration, rough edges, or visible gaps. This initial assessment provides insights into the condition of the crown and helps dentists determine the next steps in diagnosis and treatment.
  • X-rays: Dental X-rays are crucial in diagnosing tooth decay under a crown. These images reveal any hidden decay or damage that may not be visible during a visual examination alone. By capturing detailed images of the tooth structure, X-rays enable dentists in Livermore, CA, to assess the extent of the decay and develop an effective treatment plan tailored to the patient’s requirements.
  • Probing: In addition to visual examination and X-rays, dentists may use specialized instruments to probe around the margins of the crown gently. This probing technique helps detect any soft spots or areas of concern that may indicate decay or other underlying issues.

Treatment Options for Tooth Decay Under a Crown

  • Dental Fillings: Dental fillings in Livermore, CA, are often recommended for minor decay. Dentists extract the decayed area and fill the cavity with a composite material that is the same color as the tooth to restore the tooth’s structure and function. This conservative approach helps preserve the natural tooth structure.
  • Root Canal Therapy: If dental decay has reached the tooth’s inner pulp, it may need root canal therapy to recover. During this treatment, the diseased tissue is removed to stop the infection from passing to neighboring teeth, and the root canal is cleaned, disinfected, and sealed. Root canal therapy can effectively treat advanced decay and alleviate pain or discomfort.
  • Crown Replacement: In cases of extensive decay or damage to the crown, crown replacement may be the best option. Dentists carefully remove the old crown, clean the underlying tooth structure, and fabricate a new crown to restore the tooth’s appearance and function. Crown replacement ensures a snug fit and helps prevent further decay or complications.

Schedule Your Appointment

Regular dental check-ups are important for diagnosing and managing tooth decay under crowns symptoms. Do not hesitate to call and schedule an appointment with Innovo Dental and Implant Studio Livermore if you see any signs of decay or have any concerns about your oral health. Taking proactive steps towards dental health is crucial for a brighter, healthier smile.

Conclusion

Stay vigilant for signs of decay under a crown, and quick action can safeguard your oral health, preventing more serious issues. Don’t forget to put your dental health first – book regular check-ups with your trusted Livermore dentist to keep your smile shining bright.

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