Dental crowns are custom caps that cover damaged, cracked, or worn teeth. They restore your tooth’s strength, shape, and appearance and help prevent damage. Porcelain crowns in Wilmington are popular because they look natural and fit in with your smile.
As time passes by, even the best quality crowns can wear down, and only regular dental checkups can help you catch the problems and address them faster. Crowns support and protect your tooth structure, improve chewing function, and maintain your bite.
Knowing when a crown needs replacement can help you avoid pain, an infection, or a more serious dental issue.
How Can You Tell If a Crown Is Damaged?
If you are noticing several warning signs, it may be a sign that your crown is failing. These signs may include:
- Pain or sensitivity around the crowned tooth when biting or chewing
- The crown has cracks, chips, or noticeable wear
- Dark lines at the gum line or discoloration
- The crown feels loose and wobbles when touched
- Crown has an unpleasant taste or smell if decay is forming underneath
If you are noticing one or more of these signs, you should plan to visit a dentist to evaluate your crown sooner rather than later.
The sooner you replace a crown, the easier and less costly it is. Dealing with a crown replacement early can prevent complications for your natural tooth.
When Should You Consider Replacing Crowns on Front Teeth?
Since front teeth are most visible, being comfortable with how they look is as important as how they function. You might need to replace your crowns on your front teeth if:
- They are stained or discolored
- They have chips or cracks
- They feel uncomfortable wearing
- You simply want your smile to look nicer
Like your back teeth, your front teeth have crowns that are subjected to wear and tear every day from chewing food and talking to other people, and even minor damages like chips and cracks can affect your comfort and confidence.
Replacing your crown early maintains your smile and oral health.
What Factors Affect the Cost of Crown Replacement?
The crown replacement cost is dependent on several important factors:
- Type of crown: The type of crown you choose can also add to the final cost.
- Location of tooth: Front tooth crowns are more visible and may require cosmetic materials.
- Dentist expertise and the location of the dental office also matter when determining the cost of the crowns.
Comparison Table of Crown Types & Costs
| Crown Type | Average Cost | Best For |
| Porcelain | $800–$1,200 | Natural look, front teeth |
| Metal | $600–$1,000 | Strength, back teeth |
| Porcelain-fused-to-metal | $900–$1,300 | Strength + appearance |
Discussing the cost breakdown with your dentist can help you plan your treatment and avoid any surprises.
What Will a Dentist in Wilmington Do for Crown Replacement?
A dentist in Wilmington will assess your crown to determine whether or not it needs to be replaced. The process includes:
- Dental Exam of your tooth and crown
- Take a Dental X-ray to assess the underlying tooth
- Carefully remove the old crown
- Prepare the tooth for restoration
- Fit a temporary crown while your new one is made
- Cement the new crown into place if there are no complications
Having a local dentist will allow you to easily come back for appointments to follow up on any possible changes to the new crown or for adjustments, and save you time from traveling.
What are the Tips to Extend the Life of Your Dental Crown
Good oral hygiene will maximize the longevity of the crown and minimize early crown replacements. Following the below listed can help your crowns last longer:
- Brush and floss around the crown regularly
- Avoid chewing on very hard foods like ice, popcorn kernels, and very hard candy
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth when you sleep
- Visit the dentist for regular checkups so small issues can be identified early
Crowns can last anywhere from 10-15 years or longer with proper care, and can help you save time and money from continual replacements.
How to Know if You Need to Replace Your Crown Right Away
Some situations listed below need immediate care of issues regarding your crowns:
- Severe Pain
- Sensitivity
- The crown came off completely
- Visible decay under the crown
- Swelling, redness, or an infection around the tooth
If you have any of the above situations, you need to consult the dentist for immediate care, as delaying treatment can lead to complications like losing your tooth.
Protect Your Smile with a Successful Crown Replacement
Crowns are an important investment towards your smile, and it is important to replace damaged or worn crowns at the right time in order to maintain their health and appearance.
At Delaware Star Dental, you can experience quality care to replace and care for your dental crowns. Visit us today to restore the shine of your teeth.