Dental crowns are a common and effective solution for restoring damaged teeth, but a question that often arises among patients is: Can you get a cavity under a crown? The short answer is yes, it’s possible, and understanding why can help you maintain your oral health. At Arrow Dental Arts, our experienced Rancho Cucamonga Dentist team is here to demystify this topic.
With years of expertise serving the Rancho Cucamonga community, we’ll explore how cavities can develop under crowns, the signs to watch for, and what you can do about it. If you’re dealing with crown-related concerns, our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist recommends scheduling a check-up to catch issues early. Remember, this guide is informational—consult our professionals for personalized advice.
What Exactly is a Dental Crown?
Before diving into cavities, let’s clarify what a dental crown is. A crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged or decayed tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Made from materials like porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination, crowns are cemented onto the tooth after preparation, which involves removing decayed portions and reshaping the tooth.
Our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist at Arrow Dental Arts often recommends crowns for teeth weakened by large fillings, fractures, or root canals. They’re durable, lasting 5-15 years or more with proper care.
However, crowns aren’t invincible. While they protect the visible part of the tooth, the area where the crown meets the natural tooth—known as the margin—can still be vulnerable to decay. This is where cavities under crowns come into play, and our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist sees this issue more often than you’d think.
Yes, You Can Get a Cavity Under a Crown—Here’s Why
Many people assume that once a tooth is crowned, it’s fully protected from cavities. Unfortunately, that’s a myth. Cavities, or dental caries, form when bacteria in plaque produce acids that erode tooth enamel. Under a crown, decay can occur if bacteria infiltrate the margin or if the crown doesn’t seal perfectly.
According to our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist, secondary caries (cavities under restorations like crowns) affect about 20-30% of crowned teeth over time, based on studies from the American Dental Association.
The crown itself doesn’t decay—it’s not organic—but the underlying tooth structure can. Factors like poor oral hygiene allow plaque to build up along the gumline, leading to acid attacks on the exposed tooth root or enamel near the crown’s edge. If the crown was not fitted precisely, tiny gaps can trap food particles and bacteria, accelerating the process.
Our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist explains that older crowns are more prone to this issue as they wear down or loosen over time. Additionally, habits like consuming sugary foods or not flossing properly exacerbate the risk. At Arrow Dental Arts, we use advanced techniques, such as digital impressions and CAD/CAM technology, to ensure crowns fit snugly, minimizing these risks for our Rancho Cucamonga patients.
Common Causes of Cavities Under Crowns
Understanding the causes can empower you to prevent them. Our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist identifies several key culprits:
Inadequate Oral Hygiene
Brushing and flossing are crucial, even with crowns. If you neglect the area around the crown, plaque accumulates, leading to decay. Our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist advises using a soft-bristled toothbrush and interdental tools like floss threaders to clean under the crown effectively.
Poor Crown Fit or Material Wear
A crown that’s not perfectly sealed can create crevices for bacteria. Over years, chewing forces might cause micro-leakage. Materials like metal can sometimes lead to galvanic reactions, though rare, irritating tissues and promoting decay. Our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist at Arrow Dental Arts prefers high-quality, biocompatible materials to avoid such issues.
Dietary Factors and Habits
High-sugar diets feed cavity-causing bacteria. Acidic beverages like soda erode enamel near the crown. Grinding teeth (bruxism) can also crack crowns, exposing the tooth. If you’re a grinder, our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist may recommend a custom night guard to protect your investment.
Systemic Health Issues
Conditions like dry mouth (xerostomia) from medications or diabetes reduce saliva’s protective effects, increasing cavity risk. Our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist takes a holistic approach, considering your overall health during consultations.By addressing these causes, our team helps patients avoid the frustration of cavities under crowns.
Signs and Symptoms of a Cavity Under a Crown
Cavities under crowns can be sneaky since the crown hides visible decay. However, our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist warns of telltale signs:
- Pain or Sensitivity: Sharp pain when biting or sensitivity to hot/cold/sweet foods often indicates decay reaching the nerve.
- Bad Breath or Taste: Persistent foul odor or metallic taste from bacterial buildup.
- Visible Changes: Dark lines at the crown’s base, swelling, or a loose crown.
- Gum Issues: Red, swollen, or bleeding gums around the crowned tooth.
If you notice these, don’t wait—our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist urges immediate evaluation to prevent abscesses or tooth loss.
How Our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist Diagnoses and Treats Cavities Under Crowns
Diagnosis starts with a thorough exam at Arrow Dental Arts. Our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist uses digital X-rays and intraoral cameras to detect hidden decay without invasive procedures. In some cases, we might gently probe the margin or use laser fluorescence for precision.Treatment depends on severity:
- Minor Decay: Remove the crown, clean the cavity, and place a new crown or filling.
- Advanced Decay: A root canal may be needed if the pulp is infected, followed by a new crown.
- Severe Cases: Extraction and replacement with an implant or bridge.
Our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist prioritizes minimally invasive options, often completing treatments in one visit with CEREC same-day crowns. Post-treatment, we provide care instructions to ensure longevity.
Prevention Tips from Our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist
Prevention is key, and our experts at Arrow Dental Arts share these tips:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss meticulously around crowns.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce plaque.
- Limit sugary snacks and rinse after acidic foods.
- Attend regular check-ups—our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist recommends every six months for cleanings and inspections.
- Consider sealants or fluoride treatments for added protection.
By following these, you can significantly lower your risk of cavities under crowns.
When Should You See Our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist?
Any discomfort or changes around a crowned tooth warrants a visit. Early detection saves time, money, and your tooth. At Arrow Dental Arts, our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist offers flexible scheduling, including emergencies, for the local community.
Conclusion: Protect Your Crowned Teeth with Expert Care
Yes, you can get a cavity under a crown, but with vigilance and professional care, it’s preventable and treatable. At Arrow Dental Arts, our dedicated Rancho Cucamonga Dentist is committed to helping you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. If you’re in Rancho Cucamonga and have questions about your crowns or suspect an issue, contact us today. Schedule an appointment with our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist to ensure your dental work stands the test of time.