Dental crowns are extremely durable. Whether they’re made entirely out of metal or use dental ceramic to mimic the appearance of natural teeth, dentists use only the sturdiest materials for modern dental crowns. This helps ensure that patients can bite and chew normally and that the crown does not become damaged from natural wear and tear a person might experience every day.
Like your real teeth, sufficient pressure or trauma to a crown can cause fractures. Lake Mary, FL cosmetic and restorative dentist Dr. Steven Hochfelder would like to go over the most common causes of damaged dental crowns below.
Trips and Falls
Trips and falls are the leading causes of dental injuries. It should come as no surprise that nasty falls could potentially cause a crown to become damaged in some way. Be sure to be careful on stairs and when you’re climbing ladders. Use all necessary precautions when working near ledges or at any significant height.
Sports and Athletic Injuries
If you participate in combat sports or contact sports, your risk of dental injury is pretty high. This is particularly true for athletes who are in MMA, boxing, football, and hockey. Even non-contact sports such as soccer and basketball can get physical, leading to a dental injury and potentially a damaged dental crown. Be sure to wear protective gear and mouth guards when necessary.
Vehicle Accidents
The force generated in a vehicle accident can be tremendous, causing all sorts of injuries. Facial injuries and mouth injuries during an auto accident or bicycle accident can result in damage to your dental work, including crowns and other restorations.
Physical Altercations
If you’re assaulted, attacked, or get into a fight, blows to the head, face, or mouth can lead to dental injuries of various kinds. This can damage your real teeth as well as any of your dental work.
Biting on a Hard Object
Biting down on an unpopped kernel of popcorn, a fragment of bone, or other hard objects in your food can lead to a cracked tooth. It can also lead to a cracked dental crown. Whenever possible, savor your food and chew slowly and thoroughly to avoid possible injury.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Teeth grinding is the gnashing, clenching, shifting, and clamping of the teeth when you are asleep. This can result in worn-down teeth and damaged crowns if the condition goes untreated for a long time. Be sure to see your dentist if you notice recurring issues with jaw pain, headaches, sore teeth, or tender gums when you wake up in the morning.
Natural Wear and Tear
Dental crowns will wear down from regular biting and chewing just like your real teeth. That’s why it may be necessary to replace your dental crowns eventually after they have been in place for a while.
Replacing a Dental Crown
The process for replacing a dental crown is much like the initial placement. The old crown is removed, an impression is taken, and a new custom restoration is fashioned as a replacement. We can discuss the ideal materials to use and other important factors during your consultation.
Speak with an Experienced Dentist
For more information about treating damaged crowns and improving your dental wellness, be sure to contact an experienced cosmetic and restorative dentist. Dr. Hochfelder and his team are here to help. You can reach our practice by phone at (407) 321-8900.
