A crown, whether it's a dental crown or another type of crown (like a king's!), can suffer damage and infection. This article focuses on dental crowns. When a dental crown becomes infected, it's a serious matter requiring prompt attention. But the good news is, in many cases, an infected crown can be saved—though not always. The success depends on several factors, including the extent of the infection, the underlying cause, and the overall health of the tooth.
What Causes an Infected Crown?
Before we dive into saving the crown, it's important to understand how this problem arises. An infection under a crown often stems from issues within the tooth itself, before the crown was placed. These include:
- Pre-existing decay: If decay wasn't completely removed before the crown was cemented, bacteria can thrive under the crown, leading to infection.
- Gum disease (periodontitis): Gum disease can cause inflammation and infection that spreads to the area under the crown.
- Fractured tooth: A crack or fracture in the underlying tooth can allow bacteria to infiltrate, resulting in an abscess or infection.
- Poor oral hygiene: Neglecting proper brushing and flossing allows bacteria to accumulate, increasing the risk of infection anywhere in the mouth, including under a crown.
- Leaking crown: Over time, the seal between the crown and the tooth can become compromised, allowing bacteria to enter. This can be due to wear and tear, trauma, or improper cementation.
How Do You Know if Your Crown is Infected?
Identifying an infected crown often requires a professional dental examination. However, some common symptoms include:
- Severe toothache: A persistent and intense throbbing pain, often radiating to other areas of the face.
- Sensitivity to temperature: Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks.
- Swelling of the gums: Noticeable swelling or redness around the crown.
- Pus formation: A visible discharge of pus near the gum line.
- Loose crown: The crown may feel loose or wobbly.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's crucial to seek immediate dental attention.
Can a Dentist Save an Infected Crown?
The answer is often yes, but it depends on the severity and cause of the infection. The dentist's first step will likely involve:
- X-rays: To assess the extent of the infection and identify any underlying issues within the tooth.
- Removing the crown: The crown will need to be carefully removed to examine the tooth beneath.
- Cleaning and disinfecting: The dentist will thoroughly clean and disinfect the infected area, removing any decay or damaged tissue.
- Root canal treatment (possible): If the infection has reached the pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth), a root canal may be necessary. This removes the infected pulp and seals the canals to prevent further infection.
- Re-cementing the crown (if possible): If the underlying tooth is healthy enough after treatment, the original crown may be re-cemented. Otherwise, a new crown might be necessary.
What Happens if the Crown Cannot Be Saved?
In some cases, the infection may be too severe, or the underlying tooth may be too damaged to salvage. If this happens, the dentist may recommend:
- Extraction: Removing the infected tooth.
- Dental implant: Replacing the extracted tooth with a dental implant for a long-term solution.
- Bridge: A bridge can replace a missing tooth by attaching it to adjacent teeth.
How Can I Prevent an Infected Crown?
Prevention is always better than cure. To minimize the risk of an infected crown:
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene: Brush and floss thoroughly twice a day.
- Regular dental checkups: See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings to detect and address problems early.
- Avoid clenching or grinding your teeth: These habits can stress your teeth and crowns, increasing the risk of damage and leakage.
- Report any problems promptly: Don't ignore any signs of pain, sensitivity, or looseness in your crown.
In conclusion, while an infected crown can sometimes be saved with appropriate dental intervention, it's crucial to seek professional care promptly. The earlier the infection is addressed, the higher the chances of preserving the crown and maintaining the health of the underlying tooth. Regular dental checkups and a diligent oral hygiene routine are your best defenses against this problem.
