If you are unhappy with a dental crown, you might wonder if it can be replaced. The answer is yes; dental crowns can be removed and replaced with ones more suitable to your liking. In this blog, we will cover the process of crown replacement, when it’s not possible, and your other options.
What Happens During Crown Replacement?
People can maintain crowns for years. So, having a tooth covering removed that is so securely attached can seem intimidating. However, the procedure for a crown replacement isn’t too different from getting your first crown fitted. Here’s what you can expect:
- First Assessment
The dentist will take some X-rays and examine the crown and the tooth underneath. They might check the health of the existing tooth and determine if there is any damage to the crown or surrounding gums. - Anesthesia Use
A quick injection of local anesthesia will be administered so that you don’t feel discomfort during the procedure. - Crown Removal
The bonded crown will be loosened and cut into sections to gently remove it from the tooth structure underneath. - Preparing Underlying Tooth
Now that the crown that needs replacement is removed, the existing tooth will be cleaned, sanitized, and possibly reshaped to fit the new crown. - Dental Impressions
The process from here continues as per regular crown placement. Digital scanning technology or traditional molds will be prepared to customize your new crown. - Temporary Crown
You might be fitted with a temporary crown to fill in the space left by the old one. Meanwhile, your new permanent crown will be crafted in a dental lab. This process might take about one or two weeks. - Permanent Crown Placement
When your crown is ready, you must come in for the final fitting. The permanent crown will be fitted onto your tooth. It can be altered slightly to your liking before it’s cemented.
When Can’t Crowns Be Replaced?
Most dental crowns are replaceable. However, there are some situations where a replacement is not advised or is not possible. However, no need to worry, as other dental interventions might be used to replace your tooth.
- Damaged Tooth
If the underlying tooth is fractured or has trauma, it won’t be able to bond with a dental crown. This tooth might require extraction and replacement by implants or bridges. - Lack of Tooth Structure
A successful dental crown requires some of the original tooth intact to support it. If what’s left of the tooth is too small, it won’t be able to anchor a crown. Other options will be considered to replace your tooth. - Gum Disease
If you have ongoing periodontal disease, then a crown replacement might not be possible. Gum diseases weaken gums and can decay the anchor tooth. Hence, a crown can’t be supported until it’s been treated.
What’s Next
Since crowns are so common, many people feel they want a better or newer one as time passes. So, if you’re wondering, “Can crowns be replaced?” It’s definitely possible.
For further queries and information, visit Royalty Dental Associates. To schedule an appointment, call (281) 655-0500 (Spring Cypress) or (281) 288-0900 (Interstate Hwy 45).