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Getting Help if a Crown Cracks Off

Posted on 2/15/2025 by Dr. Michael Allard

Close-up of a tooth in the lower jaw with a deep, significant crack in need of repair.

Dental crowns are commonly used in restorative dentistry to repair damaged or decayed teeth, and they can last for many years with proper care. However, crowns are not indestructible and can sometimes crack or chip. If you find yourself in this situation, it's important to seek professional help as soon as possible.

Causes of Cracked Crowns

There are several reasons why a dental crown might crack. These include:

•	Biting down on hard objects: Chewing on ice, hard candy, or other hard foods can put a lot of stress on your crowns and eventually lead to cracks.
•	Grinding your teeth: People who grind their teeth at night (bruxism) are more likely to experience cracked crowns.
•	Poor oral hygiene: Not brushing and flossing regularly can lead to plaque and tartar buildup, which can weaken the tooth structure and make it more susceptible to cracking.
•	Trauma: A blow to the face or a fall can also damage a dental crown.

Signs of a Cracked Crown

It's not always easy to tell if a crown has cracked, but there are some signs to watch out for:

•	Pain: A cracked crown can cause pain when you bite down or chew.
•	Sensitivity: You may experience sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks.
•	Visible crack: In some cases, you may be able to see a crack in the crown.
•	Loose crown: A cracked crown may become loose and even fall off.

Seeking Help

If you suspect that your dental crown has cracked, it's important to see your dentist as soon as possible. They will be able to examine the crown and determine the best course of treatment. Depending on the severity of the crack, the dentist may be able to repair the crown or they may need to replace it altogether.

Tips for Preventing Cracked Crowns

There are a few things you can do to help prevent your dental crowns from cracking:

•	Avoid biting down on hard objects: This includes ice, hard candy, and nuts.
•	Wear a night guard: If you grind your teeth at night, wearing a night guard can help protect your crowns.
•	Practice good oral hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
•	See your dentist regularly: Regular checkups can help identify and address any potential problems with your crowns early on.

Conclusion

Dental crowns are a valuable tool for restoring damaged teeth, but they can sometimes crack or chip. If you experience a cracked crown, it's important to see your dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damage and discuss treatment options. By following the tips above, you can help keep your crowns healthy and prevent them from cracking.

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Arrowhead Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 18555 N 79th Ave, Suite A-103, Glendale, AZ 85308-8370, (623) 738-2564, arrowheadoralsurgery.com, 3/22/2025, Page Terms:Dental Implants Glendale AZ,