How to Know It's Time to Replace Your Crowns

Dental crowns are designed for durability, but they have a limited shelf life. Most crowns last between five and 15 years. 

 At 88 Smile Design in Mount Vernon, New York, Edly Destine, DDS, specializes in installing and replacing dental crowns. If you’ve had yours for several years, here’s what he advises you to look for. 

Identifying signs of wear and tear

The lifespan of your crown depends on oral hygiene habits and the materials used. Here are the physical changes that suggest your crown needs replacing.  

• Pain or swelling: If you feel sensitivity or pain around the crowned tooth, it could mean the crown is loose, or there’s decay underneath.
• Visible damage: Cracks, chips, or significant surface wear on the crown can expose the natural tooth to bacteria.
• A receding gum line: If your gums pull away from the crown, it can create a gap where plaque collects. This often shows up as a dark line near the gum.
• An uneven bite: If your teeth don't feel like they fit together correctly when you chew, the crown may have shifted or worn down.

Ignoring these signs can lead to more serious issues, like infections or the need for a root canal. Regular dental checkups are the best way to catch these problems before they cause pain.

The health risks of old crowns

Your crown’s main job is to protect a damaged tooth. If the seal between the crown and the tooth breaks, bacteria can get inside. This leads to recurrent decay,  which is a cavity forming under the existing restoration. Since the crown covers the tooth, you might not see the cavity until it’s quite large. Cavities under the old crown are the leading reason for needing a replacement. 

Choosing the right replacement material

Modern dentistry offers options that are much stronger and more realistic than those available a decade ago.

• Porcelain fused to metal: These are durable and have been a standard for many years.
• All-ceramic or all-porcelain: These provide the best color match for front teeth.
• Zirconia: This is a very strong type of crystal that's often used for back teeth because it can withstand heavy chewing forces.

We use high-quality materials to make sure your new restoration feels just like a natural tooth. 

By replacing a failing crown early, we can often save more of your natural tooth structure. This keeps your jaw healthy and prevents the need for more complex treatments later on.

If you suspect your crown needs replacing or it’s been more than six months since your last dental cleaning and checkup, contact our office today! You can book your appointment by calling 914-699-6988 or through the online tool.