Can Crowns Get Cavities? What You Need to Know

Crowns are a popular dental solution for protecting weak, broken, or heavily filled teeth. They serve as a shield for damaged teeth, offering protection and extending the tooth’s life. However, many people wonder: can crowns get cavities? Let’s explore this question and offer some insights into how you can keep your crowned teeth cavity-free.

Understanding Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are caps that cover a damaged or weakened tooth to protect it and improve its appearance and more importantly its functionality. They’re often used after procedures like root canals, large fillings, or to cover dental implants. Crowns are made from durable materials like porcelain, ceramic, or metal, designed to withstand everyday wear and tear. However, while they’re durable, they’re not invincible.

The main purpose of a crown is to protect the tooth underneath from further damage. But while crowns are strong and resistant to decay, the natural tooth underneath is still susceptible to cavities, which is a concern that many patients may not be fully aware of.

Can Crowns Develop Cavities?

Technically, the crown itself cannot get a cavity. Crowns are made from materials that don’t decay, such as metal, ceramic, or porcelain. However, the area where the crown meets the natural tooth, known as the margin, is vulnerable to cavities. If plaque builds up around this margin, it can lead to decay on the natural tooth surface beneath the crown. Left untreated, this decay can compromise the entire tooth, potentially causing pain, infection, or even loss of the tooth.

This decay is especially likely if there is a gap or leak between the crown and the tooth, which can happen over time or if the crown was not properly fitted in the first place. Regular check-ups with your dentist help catch any issues early, ensuring the longevity of both the crown and the natural tooth it protects.

Why Crowns Are Susceptible to Decay

Crowns can be an excellent way to protect weakened teeth, but they are still susceptible to decay in certain conditions. Here’s why:

Plaque and Bacteria Accumulation: Like natural teeth, crowns can collect plaque and bacteria around the gum line and at the crown’s margin. If not thoroughly cleaned, this buildup can lead to decay in the underlying tooth.

Poor Oral Hygiene: Crowns require the same level of care as natural teeth. Neglecting to brush or floss can lead to plaque buildup and, over time, to cavities forming at the crown’s edge/margin.

Aging Crowns: Crowns may wear down or shift slightly over time, creating small spaces where bacteria can settle. Routine dental visits help catch these issues early, ensuring the crown remains secure.

Diet and Habits: Sugary or acidic foods increase the risk of decay around crowns, especially at the edges. Teeth grinding or clenching can also stress crowns, potentially loosening or fracturing them over time.

Gum Recession: As gums naturally recede with age, the tooth near the crown margin becomes more exposed and susceptible to decay if not properly cleaned.

Preventing Decay Around Crowns

To protect the natural tooth under your crown, diligent care and regular check-ups are essential. Here are some tips:

• Brush Twice Daily: Use a soft-bristle toothbrush to brush thoroughly around the gum line and crown margin, helping remove plaque buildup.
• Floss Daily: Floss around the crown’s margin to dislodge any trapped particles. Floss threaders can be especially helpful for reaching beneath the crown’s edge.
• Regular Dental Check-ups: Routine visits to your dentist help identify and address issues early, maintain plaque control, and ensure the crown remains well-fitted.
• Use Mouthwash: Antibacterial mouthwash can help kill bacteria in hard-to-reach areas around your crown.
• Watch Your Diet: Limiting sugary and acidic foods reduces the risk of cavities. Minimizing sugary snacks can help maintain a healthier mouth environment.
• Wear a Mouthguard if Necessary: If you grind or clench your teeth, wearing a mouthguard can help protect the crown.

Signs of Decay Under a Crown

Here are a few signs that may indicate decay under a crown:

• Tooth Sensitivity: Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods could be a sign of decay.
• Pain or Discomfort: Persistent pain around a crowned tooth is worth having checked.
• Swollen or Bleeding Gums: Swelling or bleeding near the crown could indicate plaque buildup or a gum infection.
• Visible Discoloration: Discoloration around the crown’s edge may signal decay in the underlying tooth.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to visit a professional. Your dentist’s office in Orange,  CA can assess the issue, recommend treatment, and take preventive steps to protect the tooth beneath the crown.

Final Thoughts

While crowns offer substantial protection, they’re not immune to issues. The crown itself doesn’t decay, but the natural tooth underneath can develop cavities, especially around the edges where plaque accumulates. Good oral hygiene and regular dental appointments are essential for keeping your crowns and your entire mouth healthy. Even with a crown, your tooth still needs attentive care to maintain a healthy smile.