Replace Worn and Cracked Crowns

Has it been a while since you received your dental crowns and bridges? You may be due for a replacement if your restoration is cracked or worn. The dentists at Fredericksburg Dental Associates in Fredericksburg, VA, can help you decide if the time is right for a new crown or bridge.

When should I replace crowns and bridges?

Crowns and bridges are designed to withstand years of chewing, biting, tearing, and grinding foods. In fact, many crowns and bridges last 10 to 15 years or longer before they need to be replaced. It may be time to visit the Fredericksburg, VA, dental office to talk about replacing dental crowns and bridges if:

• Your Crowns or Bridges Are Discolored: Although newer crowns and bridges are more stain-resistant, older restorations can become discolored over time. If a discolored crown is in a noticeable spot, you may want to have it replaced even if it isn't worn. The same is true of a discolored bridge. Using abrasive toothpaste on crowns and bridges can wear away the protective coating that repels stains and make the restorations more likely to become discolored.
• Your Crown Is Damaged: Wear and tear or grinding or clenching your teeth at night can damage crowns and bridges. If bacteria enter your tooth through a crack in a crown or the crown portion of a bridge, you might develop a cavity. Replacing your restoration as soon as you see or feel a difference will help you avoid tooth decay.
• Your Crown or Bridge Is Worn: Everything wears out over time, including crowns or bridges. Although you might not notice a change in your appearance, you may find chewing a little more difficult with a worn restoration. Once you receive your new restoration, you'll probably notice that eating becomes easier.
• Your Tooth Hurts: Tooth pain could be caused by a cavity under your crown or bridge or a receding gum around the crown or crown area of the bridge. After your dentist treats the problem, you'll need to add a new crown or bridge to your mouth.

Are you ready to replace your dental crowns and bridges? Call (540) 373-0602 to schedule an appointment with the Fredericksburg, VA, dentists at Fredericksburg Dental Associates.