When To Replace Old Dental Crowns And Bridges

Dental crowns and bridges are designed to restore function and appearance for individuals with damaged or missing teeth by helping them chew, speak and smile with confidence. However, over time, they can start to deteriorate, potentially leading to various dental issues if not addressed promptly. Recognising when they need replacement is crucial for maintaining your oral health. 

Early detection of problems may help prevent discomfort and save you from more extensive dental procedures. In this blog, we’ll discuss the common indicators that it might be time to replace your old dental bridges and crowns. 

A secure fit contributes to the effectiveness of crowns and bridges. Over time, changes in the surrounding teeth and gums can cause these restorations to become loose. This may lead to discomfort and impact your ability to chew properly.

Looseness may also lead to gaps between the crown or bridge and the adjacent teeth, creating spaces where bacteria can accumulate. This may result in plaque buildup, cavities, bad breath or gum disease. Regular dental check-ups can help detect these issues early.

Crowns and bridges are crafted to blend seamlessly with the natural colour of your teeth. However, over time, they can start to show signs of discolouration. Factors such as food, beverages and ageing can contribute to these changes. Discolouration can make your crowns and bridges stand out from the rest of your teeth, affecting the overall appearance of your smile. This change in colour can be gradual, often going unnoticed until it becomes quite pronounced.

While discolouration itself may not pose an immediate health risk, it could be an indicator of underlying issues such as the breakdown of materials or the development of decay. If you observe significant changes in the colour or appearance of your crowns or bridges, it's important to seek professional advice. 

Sensitivity around your crowns and bridges can be a sign of underlying decay or damage to the surrounding teeth. If you experience increased sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet foods, it could indicate that the underlying tooth structure is compromised. This sensitivity may occur when the margins of the crowns or bridges start to wear away, exposing the dentin or allowing bacteria to seep in.

Decay around the edges of crowns and bridges is another concern. This may happen if the restoration does not fit properly or oral hygiene is not maintained. Decay can spread quickly and may lead to more dental problems. Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene practices are important to detect and prevent decay.

Whether it's subtle changes in how your bite feels or noticeable wear and tear, being aware of these signs can help you take timely action. If you're in Townsville and concerned about the state of your dental crowns or bridges, our team at Aspire Dental is here to assist you with your needs. Get in touch to learn more about our approach to cosmetic dentistry in Townsville.