A crown is the most common dental restoration for broken or weak teeth. They cover the tooth and give it a very cosmetic appearance. However, crowns have their downsides as well. While they have their benefits, they may not always be the best answer for everybody. Before getting under the knife for a dental crown, one must know what disadvantages it brings with it. In this manner, you will know whether the investment is worth it or not.
In this article, we will discuss the disadvantages of dental crowns, the risks that may arise, and whether or not it is right for you.
1. High Cost of Dental Crowns
One disadvantage of crowns is that they cost a lot. They are relatively costly, especially when high-quality materials like porcelain or zirconia are used. A single dental crown can cost anywhere from $800 to $2,500, depending on the type of material used and the dentist’s experience in handling such cases.
If you need several crowns, the cost adds up rapidly. Insurance can help pay for part of this expense, but most policies pay only for metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. If you desire a more aesthetically pleasing crown, you may be paying out-of-pocket.
Dental crowns are relatively pricey for most individuals. However, if the benefits outweigh this cost, the expense can pay off for any patient.
2. Potential for Tooth Sensitivity
Most patients experience increased tooth sensitivity after getting a dental crown. This is due to the dentist removing a portion of the natural tooth to fit the crown. The nerves inside the tooth may react to hot or cold foods, causing pain.
For some, the sensitivity disappears after a couple of weeks. However, for others, it can last longer. If the discomfort persists, the dentist may recommend a special toothpaste or further treatment.
This is usually a major disadvantage to people already with sensitive teeth. After getting a crown, you should be more careful about what you eat and drink.
3. Risk of Crown Damage or Fracture
Although these crowns may be strong, they are not indestructible. They may chip, crack or break under pressure. This is more common with the porcelain or ceramic varieties, especially if you grind your teeth or chew on hard foods like ice or nuts.
Metal crowns are more resistant, but they do not resemble natural crowns. If a crown is damaged, it needs to be repaired or replaced, which will cost more overall.
Dentists recommend not eating hard foods and wearing a nightguard if you grind your teeth to prevent damage. But for some, this may seem like extra effort.
4. Possible Discomfort or Poor Fit
A poorly fitted dental crown can be uncomfortable and irritating. A high crown can interfere with the bite, making it challenging to chew. If it’s loose, food particles may get caught underneath, causing decay or irritation of the gums.
A poorly fitted dental crown can be uncomfortable and irritating. A high crown can interfere with the bite, making it challenging to chew. If it’s loose, food particles may get caught underneath, causing decay or irritation of the gums. A well-fitted crown is dependent upon the skill of the dentist and the good materials used. Choosing an experienced dentist can help in avoiding all these problems.
5. Possible Allergic Reactions
Some people could be allergic to certain materials. For instance, metal crowns contain nickel, among other alloy materials, leading to allergic reactions. Symptoms in the gums will include swelling and irritation or may become red.
Known allergy to metals: If you have a known allergy to metals, the dentist will recommend that you get a crown made of ceramic or zirconia. However, such crowns may be costlier.
6. The Risk of Tooth Decay Under the Crown
Although crowns protect the tooth, decay can still occur underneath. The remaining tooth structure can decay if the crown is not sealed correctly or if bacteria get under it.
This is particularly true if you do not practice good oral hygiene. You must brush and floss around the crown to prevent decay. If decay has spread, you may need to remove the crown, and the tooth might need more extensive treatment, such as a root canal.
This is a grave threat to individuals who do not strictly adhere to their dental care regime. A crown does not make a tooth impenetrable. Therefore, routine checkups are required.
7. The Possibility of Crown Falling Off
Sometimes, a dental crown may become loose or fall off. This often occurs if insufficient tooth structure remains to support it or if the cement used to bond the crown wears off.
It may hurt and be inconvenient if a crown falls. You should go to see your dentist as soon as possible to have it set. Sometimes, the crown can just be re-cemented, but sometimes, it can’t and needs to be replaced. Don’t eat anything sticky, and pay good attention to oral hygiene to decrease the chances of loosening a crown. However, it will not stand upright forever
8. The Need for Replacement Over Time
Crowned teeth don’t last forever. In most cases, crowns last 10 to 15 years, although they may need to be replaced sooner if worn down or damaged.
Replacement of a crown will again mean another dental procedure with all its costs and pain. When there are more than one, replacing all of them can be quite expensive in the long run. A disadvantage is that you need to replace it; thus, people seeking long-term solutions should be ready to spend money on replacement every 10-15 years.
9. More Tooth Structure Is Removed
A lot of the natural tooth has to be removed to place a dental crown. Once this process has been done, it is irreversible. After shaving the tooth down, any crown or other kind of restoration will be needed forever.
For some, this is a large concern. Keeping as much natural tooth structure as possible is ideal for long-term oral health. For some parts of the tooth that are only slightly damaged, fillings or veneers would be a better option.
10. May Not Be Suitable for Everyone
Not all teeth can be crowned. A crown would not support the tooth enough if it is weak or severely damaged. In this scenario, an extraction and dental implant may be better.
Additionally, individuals with gum disease or bad oral hygiene practices are not suitable candidates for crowns. If someone has gum disease, the crown may not properly fit in their mouth, and sometimes the gum disease might be exacerbated. A full dental evaluation should be conducted before a crown is decided on. Your dentist will be able to determine whether it is appropriate for you.
Is It Worth the Investment?
Dental crowns have their benefits, but they also come with several disadvantages. Among these disadvantages are the high cost, possible discomfort caused during their installation process, and frequent replacements. Even though crowns protect teeth and strengthen them, they are not solutions for everyone.
Consider a crown if you have a significantly damaged tooth, mainly because it is more permanent. Nonetheless, a filling or a veneer may be more appropriate if the damage is minimal. Discuss your options with a dentist, such as Tampa Dental Wellness, before making a decision. That way, you know what you are getting into in terms of risks and financial costs.
So, would you ever opt for a dental crown, or what options are being used? Sound it out with the comments.
