A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that fits over a damaged or decayed tooth.
Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, metal, or ceramic.
They are essential for restoring the function and appearance of your teeth, and with proper care, they can last for many years.
However, there are times when an oral surgeon may need to repair or replace a crown. Oral surgeons specialize in surgeries of the mouth, jaws, and face.
They also have extensive training in dental implants and bone grafting.
This makes them uniquely qualified to address the complex issues involved in crown repair or replacement.
Reasons Why an Oral Surgeon May Need to Repair Your Crown
•
Fractured crown: A crown, especially those made from porcelain, could crack or fracture due to wear and tear or biting down on something hard.
•
Loose crown: Over time, the cement that holds a crown in place can weaken and cause the crown to become loose.
•
Decay beneath the crown: If decay develops beneath a crown, it can weaken the tooth and damage the surrounding bone.
•
Gum recession: Gum recession exposes the margin of the crown, making it vulnerable to decay and sensitivity.
Signs You Could Need a Crown Repair
Here are some signs indicating you may need to see an oral surgeon for crown repair:
•
Pain in the crowned tooth, especially while chewing
•
Sensitivity to hot or cold
•
Swelling or redness of the gums around the crowned tooth
•
A loose or cracked crown
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should schedule an appointment with our dentist as soon as possible.
We will examine the problem and discuss possible remedies with you.
Crown Repair or Replacement?
Depending on the extent of damage, the oral surgeon may recommend repairing the crown or replacing it entirely.
Crown Repair
For minor cracks or chips, it may be possible to repair the crown using composite resin (tooth-colored filling material).
Full Crown Replacement
If the damage is more severe or if the crown is significantly loose, a full replacement may be necessary.
The oral surgeon would remove the existing crown, prepare the remaining tooth structure, and place a new one. It may also involve additional procedures like gum grafting depending on the specific circumstances.
Takeaway
Remember, oral health is essential; regular oral exams at least twice a year are important as we can help identify issues in their early stages when treatment has the chance to be simpler and less extensive.
If you suspect a problem with your crown, consult our dentist promptly.
A timely intervention by an oral surgeon can save your crown or replace it effectively, preserving the tooth and preventing further complications.
San Francisco Dental Arts, 220 Montgomery St Ste. 825, San Francisco, CA 94104 : 415-854-9396 : thesfdentist.com : 12/15/2024 : Page Keywords: dentist San Francisco CA :
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that fits over a damaged or decayed tooth. 
