Signs That Your Dental Crown May Be Infected

Infected Crowns: Signs of Possible Infection

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Like many other treatments in dentistry, crowns are designed to restore the beauty and function of a damaged tooth.

These tiny restorations made from porcelain, metal or a combination of both, fit over an existing tooth to treat cavities and lost tooth structure. As a result, you’re able to feast on your favorite food without any discomfort and smile without any anxiety.

However, when oral hygiene is neglected, say you don’t brush your teeth twice a day or don’t schedule regular check-ups, bacteria can accumulate under the crown, get to the real tooth and eat away the protective layer of enamel. As a result, your teeth will start to rot and you’ll get an infection.

Usually, this process doesn't happen quickly or unexpectedly. It's gradual and there are warning signs informing you of what’s happening behind the scenes. Hopefully, if you catch these signs early you can act before any severe damage is caused.

Signs That Your Dental Crown Is Threatened by Infection

To tell if your dental crown is infected, look out for these signs:

• Pain or pressure around the crown
• Swelling of the gums surrounding the crown
• Redness and tenderness of the gums
• Discharge of a foul-smelling fluid or pus on and around the crown
• Tooth discoloration or a darkened appearance of your usual teeth color
• Bad taste in your mouth that doesn’t go away with brushing
• Sensitivity to temperatures i.e. hot or cold foods and drinks
  

More possible signs

• Sensitivity to sugary foods and drinks
• A feeling that something is stuck between your teeth
• Discomfort when biting down on a particular part of your mouth/teeth
• Swollen lymph nodes on your neck
• Development of a fever with no other apparent cause

Left untreated, an infection can quickly spread to surrounding teeth, gums, and even other parts of the body. So if you notice any of the above signs visit a dentist right away.

Your Roswell dentist can take X-rays and inspect the area to determine the extent of the infection. Depending on the severity, they may recommend antibiotics or other medications to help clear up the infection. In some cases, they may also suggest removing and replacing the infected dental crown in order to reduce pain and discomfort.

‍TJ O'Shea DMD is Here to Support You!

Do you suspect that your dental crown may be infected? If so, schedule an appointment with us. At TJ O'Shea DMD, we are a friendly and patient-focused practice and have been providing high-quality service for years. We provide a comprehensive range of preventive and corrective dentistry services, with all procedures supported by state-of-the-art technology and delivered in a comfortable, inviting atmosphere.

Our compassionate team of experts will consult with you about what treatments are required to return your smile to optimal health, taking into consideration any budgetary constraints or unique aesthetic needs. Don't wait any longer - contact us now to request an appointment!