10 Signs Your Dental Crown Needs Replacement

Dental crowns play a very important role in restoring your smile, but even the strongest materials can weaken with time. Subtle signs often go unnoticed until discomfort or damage sets in. Knowing when a crown needs attention can save your tooth and prevent more serious issues. Here are 10 important signs your dental crown may be due for a replacement.

1. Persistent Tooth Pain or Sensitivity

Pain is a red flag. If the tooth under your crown aches or feels tender, don’t brush it off. Sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure can point to decay beneath the crown or even nerve trouble.

• Sudden sharp pain when biting down?
• Lingering discomfort after sipping cold water?

These signs often mean that the seal between the crown and tooth has weakened. Bacteria may have found a way in, and that could mean infection or damage below the surface.

2. Gum Inflammation Around the Crown

Healthy gums stay quiet. If yours are puffy, red, or bleed when brushing near the crown, something’s off.

This swelling may happen from:

• Poor crown fit.
• Plaque buildup or accumulation along the edges.
• An allergic reaction to crown materials.

Don’t turn a blind eye to bleeding, even if it seems like nothing. It’s your body’s way of saying it needs attention.

3. Conspicuous Wear and Tear

Crowns take the brunt of everyday chewing. Over time, even tough materials wear down. Look for these indications:

• Rough or chipped edges
• Small cracks across the surface
• A flattened chewing surface

Wear affects function. Chewing becomes harder. Uneven wear can also put stress on other teeth, leading to more dental work.

If you’re from the area and have had your dental crown in Minnetonka for a long time, you might notice it’s starting to chip or feel uneven; it may be time to have it checked. Catching these small changes early can help avoid pain and more serious problems down the road.

4. The Crown Has Become Loose or Wobbly

A crown should feel solid, like part of your own tooth. If it shifts or feels loose when you chew, the cement may have weakened.

A loose crown allows bacteria inside, which raises the risk of decay or infection. This is also a risk to surrounding teeth.

If you notice movement, don’t wait. Get it checked before it falls out or causes more harm. You may need dental crown repair in Minnetonka (if you the area) before a full replacement becomes necessary.

5. Changes in Your Bite

When your bite feels “off,” your crown might be the reason. You may start chewing on one side, avoiding certain foods, or feel tension in your jaw.

These shifts or moves can come from:

• Wear on the crown’s surface.
• A misaligned crown.
• Tooth movement over time.

Small bite changes often lead to big problems, like jaw strain or tooth grinding. Listen to your bite, it tells a story.

6. Recurring Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste

Bad breath isn’t always about hygiene. If it persists, the issue might be lurking under your crown.

Trapped bacteria and hidden decay can cause:

• A foul smell, even after brushing
• A sour or metallic taste
• A sticky feeling near the crown

A fresh-smelling mouth starts with healthy dental work. Ask a dentist near you to take a closer look if breath issues keep coming back.

7. Discoloration at the Gum Line

Take a look in the mirror. Do you see a dark edge where the crown meets your gum? This discoloration could mean the crown’s base is showing, or that decay is setting in.

Metal-based crowns often show dark lines as gums recede. While not always harmful, it can affect how your smile looks.

In some cases, it’s a sign the crown needs replacing for both function and appearance.

8. Crown Age Exceeds 10–15 Years

Crowns aren’t forever. While some last longer, the average crown lifespan is about a decade.

Older crowns often:

• Lose their fit
• Develop hidden cracks
• Begin to wear down or stain.

Even if nothing hurts yet, old crowns should be evaluated. A regular checkup with a local dentist or a dentist in Minnetonka can help catch aging signs early.

9. Visible Gap Between Crown and Gum

A snug fit keeps your tooth protected. If a gap has formed between your gum and crown, trouble can follow.

Gaps allow:

• Food and bacteria to settle in
• Gum irritation is growing.
• Decay to sneak beneath the crown

Look closely in the mirror. If you spot a gap or if floss slips too easily under the edge, it’s time to take action.

10. You’re Experiencing Jaw Pain or TMJ Symptoms

A poorly fitting crown can throw off your bite, leading to muscle strain. This sometimes shows up as jaw tightness or clicking sounds near the ear.

Watch carefully for:

• Jaw soreness in the morning
• Headaches from clenching
• Pain when opening wide

Ignoring jaw pain can lead to long-term problems. If your discomfort lines up with an older or recently repaired crown, bring it up with your dentist.

Final Thoughts

Protecting your crown means protecting your long-term oral health. If something feels off, trust your instincts and take the next step. At Holger Dental Group – Minnetonka, we’re ready to help you feel confident and comfortable again. Call us today to schedule a visit. We’ll guide you with care and clarity, every step of the way.