Dental Crown Gaps: Causes, Treatments & Keeping Your Smile Whole
By: Didsbury Smiles Dental | July 07, 2024
Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its strength, function, and appearance. While crowns are durable restorations, sometimes a gap can develop between the crown and the gumline. This can be unsightly and cause concern. But don't worry; this section will explore the reasons behind dental crown gaps and how to identify them.
What are dental crowns?
Dental crowns are artificial tooth coverings typically made of porcelain, metal, or a combination of both. They are custom-made to fit snugly over the remaining tooth structure, restoring its shape, size, and functionality. Crowns are used for various reasons, including:
- Severely decayed teeth that cannot be restored with a filling
- Cracked or fractured teeth to prevent further damage
- Root canal-treated teeth to reinforce the weakened tooth structure
- Cosmetically to improve the appearance of a tooth's color, shape, or size
Why Do Gaps Behind Crowns Occur?
There are several reasons why a gap might develop between your dental crown and the gum tissue. Here's a breakdown of the most common culprits:
- Poor Crown Fit and Placement: During the crown placement procedure, if the crown isn't precisely crafted or positioned to perfectly fit the tooth and gum line, a gap can occur. This allows plaque and bacteria to accumulate, potentially leading to decay or gum disease.
- Gum Tissue Recession: Over time, gum tissue can recede due to factors like gum disease, hormonal changes, or aggressive brushing. This exposes more of the tooth root and creates a gap around the crown base.
- Residual Decay Beneath the Crown: Sometimes, even with thorough cleaning before crown placement, microscopic decay might remain under the crown. As this decay progresses, it can create a space between the crown and the tooth.
- Wear and Tear: Crowns, although durable, are not invincible. Daily wear and tear, especially from chewing hard objects or grinding teeth, can cause the crown material to chip or wear down at the edges, creating a small gap.
Signs and Symptoms of a Dental Crown Gap
A gap behind a dental crown can sometimes go unnoticed initially. However, there are signs to watch out for:
- Sensitivity in the tooth: The exposed tooth root beneath the gap can be sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages.
- Food getting trapped: Food particles can easily get lodged in the gap, causing discomfort and potentially leading to cavities or gum inflammation.
- Discomfort or pain: If the gap allows bacteria to reach the tooth pulp, it can cause inflammation and pain.
- Visible gap affecting aesthetics: A noticeable gap between the crown and gum can be aesthetically displeasing and impact your confidence when smiling.
Visuals: Include high-quality images of a dental crown, a crown with a gap at the gumline, and a diagram illustrating the different layers of a tooth with a crown.
Treatment Options for Dental Crown Gaps
Discovering a gap behind your dental crown doesn't necessitate immediate panic. However, it's crucial to schedule a visit with your Didsbury dentist to determine the cause and get the gap addressed promptly.
When to See a Dentist for a Crown Gap
Here are some signs indicating it's time to see your dentist for a crown gap:
- You notice a visible gap between the crown and your gum tissue.
- You experience sensitivity in the crowned tooth.
- Food gets lodged in the gap and is difficult to remove.
- You experience discomfort or pain in the crowned tooth.
Early intervention is crucial to prevent further complications and ensure a successful outcome.
Treatment Options Based on Severity
The treatment for a dental crown gap in Didsbury depends on the underlying cause and severity of the issue. Here are some common treatment options:
- Refitting a Loose Crown: If the gap is minor and caused by a loose crown, your dentist might be able to refit it with dental cement for a secure fit.
- Replacing a Damaged Crown: For a more significant gap due to a chipped, cracked, or worn-down crown, replacing the crown entirely with a new, properly fitted one becomes necessary.
- Addressing Underlying Decay: If residual decay is the culprit, your dentist will remove the decay and potentially perform a filling or root canal treatment before recementing the existing crown or placing a new one.
- Treating Gum Disease (if applicable): In cases where gum recession caused the gap, your dentist might recommend gum disease treatment like scaling and root planing or even surgical procedures like gum grafting to restore healthy gum tissue and eliminate the gap.
Recovery and Aftercare Following Treatment
Following treatment for a dental crown gap in Didsbury, recovery time is usually minimal. Your dentist will provide specific instructions based on the procedure performed. Here are some general aftercare tips:
- Maintain proper oral hygiene by brushing twice daily and flossing once a day.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid abrasive toothpaste.
- Avoid chewing on hard objects or using your teeth as tools.
- Attend regular dental checkups and cleanings to monitor your crown and overall oral health.
Preventing Dental Crown Gaps in the Future
Proactive dental care is key to preventing dental crown gaps in Didsbury in the first place. Here are some essential practices to maintain a healthy smile and ensure your crown lasts for years to come:
Maintaining Excellent Oral Hygiene
- Brushing and Flossing Techniques: Brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing once a day with proper technique is crucial to remove plaque and bacteria buildup around the crown and gum line. Ask your dentist for guidance on the best brushing and flossing methods for optimal crown care.
- Regular Dental Checkups and Cleanings: Scheduling regular dental checkups and cleanings, typically every six months, allows your dentist to identify any potential issues with your crown early on. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup that brushing and flossing alone might miss.
Avoiding Habits that Damage Crowns
Certain habits can damage or wear down your dental crown, increasing the risk of gaps. Here's what to avoid:
- Chewing on Hard Objects: Avoid chewing on hard candies, ice, nuts, or other hard foods, as they can chip or crack your crown.
- Using Teeth as Tools: Don't use your teeth to open bottles, packages, or tear objects. This can put undue stress on your crown and lead to breakage.
- Grinding or Clenching Teeth (Teeth Grinding Solutions): If you grind or clench your teeth, wearing a nightguard can protect your crown from damage caused by these involuntary habits. Discuss nightguard options with your dentist.
Wearing a Mouthguard for Protection
For individuals participating in contact sports or activities with a high risk of facial injury, wearing a mouthguard is crucial. Mouthguards help absorb impact and shield your teeth, including crowned teeth, from potential damage.
Conclusion: Maintaining a Healthy Smile with Regular Dental Care
Dental crowns are valuable restorations for protecting and restoring damaged teeth. However, noticing a gap behind your crown can be unsettling. Remember, early intervention is key! This article has equipped you with the knowledge to understand the causes of crown gaps, available treatment options, and preventative measures.
By prioritizing excellent oral hygiene, avoiding habits that damage crowns, and scheduling regular dental checkups, you can maintain a healthy smile and ensure your dental crown thrives for years to come. If you have a gap behind your crown, don't hesitate to schedule a consultation with your Didsbury dentist to discuss the best course of action for a healthy and confident smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a gap behind a crown a dental emergency?
A small gap might not be an immediate emergency. However, it's essential to schedule a dentist appointment to diagnose the cause and prevent further complications. If you experience significant pain, swelling, or difficulty eating, seek prompt dental attention.
Will my dental insurance cover fixing a crown gap?
Dental insurance coverage for fixing a crown gap depends on your specific plan and the reason for the gap. In some cases, if the gap results from a faulty crown placement or a covered dental procedure, your insurance might contribute to the repair costs. Contact your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage details.
How much does it cost to fix a crown gap?
The cost of fixing a crown gap varies depending on the treatment needed. Refitting a loose crown might be less expensive than replacing a damaged crown or undergoing additional procedures like gum grafting. Consulting your dentist will provide an accurate estimate based on your individual situation.
