Your dental crown plays a vital role in protecting damaged teeth and restoring your smile, but even the most durable crown won’t last forever. At Russo Dental, we often see patients who are unaware that their crowns are showing signs of wear or failure, until discomfort sets in.
Dr. Nick Russo, a lifelong Brookfield resident and trusted local dentist, believes in helping patients spot concerns early, when treatment is easier and more comfortable. If your crown isn’t functioning like it used to, it might be trying to tell you something.
1. Increased Tooth Sensitivity or Pain
One of the first red flags that a dental crown may need to be replaced is sudden sensitivity or discomfort. While a properly fitted crown should feel like a natural part of your mouth, issues underneath can sometimes develop unnoticed. You might experience:
- Sharp pain when biting down or chewing
- Heightened sensitivity to hot and cold foods
- A persistent dull ache near the crowned tooth
These symptoms often suggest that decay has developed at the margin between the crown and underlying tooth, or that the fit has changed due to natural wear. Dr. Russo evaluates each case gently and thoroughly, making sure to keep your comfort a priority throughout the process.
2. Visible Wear, Cracks, or Chips
Just like natural teeth, crowns can suffer from years of wear and tear. Over time, small fractures, worn edges, or even chips may start to appear. While these changes might seem minor or purely cosmetic at first, they can compromise the strength and longevity of the crown. Warning indicators include:
- A rough or jagged surface on the crown
- Visible cracks or chips forming
- A crown that looks “shorter” than it used to, indicating erosion
At Russo Dental, we offer modern dental materials that are stronger, more durable, and more aesthetic than older crown types. If you received your crown years ago, a replacement could not only restore function, but improve your smile’s overall appearance as well.
3. Looseness or a "Wiggly" Feeling
A dental crown should feel securely attached and shouldn’t move or shift. If your crown feels loose, it may be due to cement degradation, changes in your bite, or even decay under the crown. Whatever the case, this is not something to ignore. A loose crown can expose the vulnerable underlying tooth to bacteria, leaving it open to decay or infection. Common warning signs include:
- A noticeable shift in the crown when eating or speaking
- A gap between the crown and gumline
- Food getting trapped around the crown more frequently
If you're noticing any of these signs, Dr. Russo can evaluate the integrity of the crown and offer conservative, lasting solutions to restore comfort and stability.
4. You Pull Your Crown Out Completely
If you notice a wiggly crown and don't get help right away, your crown may eventually pull out of your mouth completely. This is especially common when eating a very soft and sticky food such as licorice, taffy, or gummy candy. If you pull your crown out while eating, you should:
- Put the crown in a plastic baggie or container to keep it safe
- Bring it in with you to your appointment at Russo Dental
- Book a dental visit ASAP, since the exposed tooth will be weak and vulnerable to decay
Depending on the situation, Dr. Russo may be able to re-apply your old crown with dental cement, or it may be necessary to build a brand-new crown to ensure the best outcome.
5. Gum Irritation or Recession Around the Crown
Healthy gums should adapt smoothly around your dental crown. But when a crown starts to fail or doesn’t fit properly anymore, it may lead to gum inflammation or expose more of the tooth's surface. This can not only affect comfort but also your oral health. Warning signs include:
- Red, swollen, or irritated gum tissue near the crown
- Bleeding while brushing around the area
- Receding gumline that reveals more of the crown edge
At Russo Dental, our team takes a gentle approach to diagnostics. We’ll help you understand what’s happening and guide you through personalized treatment options that prioritize your comfort and long-term dental wellness.
Trust Russo Dental for Dental Crown Replacement in Brookfield
If you’re noticing discomfort, wear, or changes in your dental crown, don’t wait for the situation to worsen. Dr. Nick Russo and the caring team at Russo Dental offer precise, patient-first care that blends advanced dental techniques with a personal touch you’ll only find from a Brookfield native. Call us today at (262) 784-3740 to schedule an evaluation and get your smile back on track, with comfort, trust, and community at the heart of every visit.