Dental crowns are an essential part of restorative dentistry, which aims to improve the function and appearance of damaged or decayed teeth. When a tooth is severely damaged, a dentist will recommend a dental crown to protect and strengthen the tooth structure.
A dental crown is essentially a cap that is placed over the damaged tooth, providing support and restoring its shape and function. However, your dental crown must fit correctly for it to be effective and comfortable.
In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the importance of a precise crown fitting and how to determine if your crown fits right.
Why Is a Proper Crown Fitting Important?
An accurate crown fitting is essential for several reasons:
- Comfort: An ill-fitting crown can cause discomfort and pain while eating, speaking, or simply resting. This is because an improperly sized or shaped crown can put pressure on the surrounding teeth and gum tissue, leading to irritation and inflammation.
- Function: A dental crown should restore the function of your damaged tooth, allowing you to eat and speak normally. If your crown doesn't fit right, it can affect your bite and cause difficulty chewing food, potentially leading to further dental issues.
- Aesthetics: A crown that fits exactly will blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing a natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance. On the other hand, a poorly fitting crown can look bulky or out of place, affecting your smile and confidence.
- Longevity: A well-fitting dental crown can last many years with proper care. However, an ill-fitting crown will likely fail prematurely, requiring additional dental work and expenses.
How to Determine if Your Dental Crown Fits Right
Here are some signs that your crown fitting is not correctly aligned:
- Pain or Discomfort: Once you experience pain or discomfort around the crowned tooth or the surrounding teeth, this could indicate an issue with the crown's fit. While some sensitivity is expected immediately after the procedure, persistent pain could indicate a problem.
- Difficulty Chewing: If you have trouble chewing food on the side of your mouth with the crown, this could be a sign that it does not fit correctly. A well-fitting crown should allow you to chew without any difficulty or discomfort.
- Abnormal Bite: A dental crown that doesn't fit correctly can cause changes in your bite or the way your teeth come together when you close your mouth. This can lead to uneven tooth wear, jaw pain, and other dental problems.
- Flossing Issues: If you find it difficult to floss between your crowned tooth and the adjacent teeth, it could indicate an issue with the fit of the crown. A well-fitting crown should allow for easy flossing without any discomfort or resistance.
- Visible Gaps: If you notice any visible gaps between the crown and your natural tooth, it could be a sign that the crown isn't fitting correctly. A properly fitting crown should seamlessly cover the entire tooth without any visible gaps.
- Gum Irritation: If the dental crown is too large or not seated properly, it can irritate your gums, causing redness, swelling, or even bleeding. This discomfort should not be ignored, as it could lead to infection or other dental issues.
What to Do if Your Crown Doesn't Fit Right
If you suspect your dental crown doesn't fit correctly, visiting your dentist as soon as possible is essential. They will assess the situation and determine if any adjustments or a new crown are needed.
Ignoring an ill-fitting crown can lead to further dental issues, such as tooth decay or gum irritation, and may require more extensive and costly dental work in the future.
At Dental House MI, we provide crown installation and long-lasting dental crowns. Our team of proficient and seasoned dentists collaborates with you to guarantee a comfortable fit and a natural appearance for your crown, enabling you to flaunt your smile confidently.
What’s more, we present an assortment of crown materials to select from, allowing you to discover the ideal option that caters to your requirements and budget. Allow us to assist you in determining the best dental crown option for your smile. Book a consultation with us now!