What to Do When Bacteria Get Under a Dental Crown?

Crowns, often referred to as caps, are commonly used after root canal treatment to provide substantial protection to the enclosed tooth. However, what many people may not realise is that the tooth beneath the crown can also become infected. There are two major reasons for decay. Firstly, not all infected tissue was completely removed from the root during the cleaning process. Secondly, if the crown is not placed correctly, it may allow water and food to enter, leading to decay.

So, if you suspect decay under a crown, it’s time to seek the best dental crown infection treatment in India. To help you recognize when it’s essential to consult a dentist, we have outlined the signs to watch for, how to treat the issue, and tips to prevent it.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of a decayed tooth under a crown is pain. The tooth structure underneath experiences excessive decay in the form of cavities, or the infection may spread to the pulp and nerves. As a result, the pain could also increase depending on the severity of the decay. However, apart from this, there are other signs that can be experienced, including:

• Tenderness around the crown
• Sore gums
• Bad breath
• Swelling around the crown
• Yellow or clear discharge near the crown
• Running a fever
• Sensitivity when consuming hot or cold food.

Note: You should keep in mind that ignoring these symptoms can lead to serious complications.

Tips to Keep a Crowned Tooth Healthy

• Always maintain oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day.
• When you notice even minor damage to your crown, consult a dentist promptly.
• Avoid activities that could compromise the crown’s integrity.
• Schedule an annual appointment with your dentist to have your crown inspected.
• If you have a ceramic or porcelain crown and you notice a black line, visit your dentist promptly.

How to Treat Decay Under a Crown?

Dentists treat cavities under the crown by removing the cap and filling the hole with various materials such as composite resin, amalgam, and others. This filling helps restore your tooth’s strength. However, depending on the severity of the decay, your dentist may recommend getting a new crown to cover a larger area. In some cases, the dentist might recommend tooth extraction and replacement with an artificial tooth. Therefore, there are treatments available to address decaying teeth; the best approach is to follow and maintain proper oral hygiene to save yourself from unnecessary worry and expenditure.

The Bottom Line

Untreated tooth decay, whether in your mouth or under a dental crown, can lead to unpleasant effects. Whether visible or hidden, cavities in a tooth can cause bad breath or halitosis. So, if you want to take good care of your dental crown, schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathuria’s Dentistry. We provide various types of dental canal treatments to restore damaged teeth. Give us a call to learn about the cost of cosmetic teeth contouring, cleaning, whitening, and any other treatments you’re seeking.