That sinking feeling when you bite into something and feel a crack—yep, your dental crown just broke. Now what? Do you repair it, or does it need to be completely replaced?
Before you panic, take a breath. A broken crown doesn’t always mean starting from scratch. This guide breaks down the difference between repair and replacement—so you can make a smart, stress-free decision.
First Things First: Why Do Crowns Break?
Dental crowns are durable, but they’re not invincible. Common causes of a broken crown include:
- Biting down on hard foods (ice, nuts, hard candy).
- Teeth grinding (especially at night).
- Trauma or injury to the face.
- Weak bonding or decay under the crown.
- General wear and tear over time.
Understanding what caused the damage can help determine whether a quick fix will work or if a full replacement is needed.
Spot The Symptoms: Signs Your Crown is Damaged
Not all crown damage is obvious. Here’s what to look out for:
- Sharp pain or sensitivity when biting or drinking.
- Visible cracks or chips.
- A loose or wobbly crown.
- Metal showing through porcelain.
- A crown that completely falls off.
If you notice any of these, don’t delay. Call a dentist right away—waiting too long can lead to infection or further tooth damage.
Repair or Replace? Here’s The Breakdown
Let’s get to the big question: Can it be saved, or is it time for a new one?
When Repair Is Possible
Some minor damage can be fixed without removing the crown. This might include:
- Small chips in porcelain.
- Worn edges that need reshaping.
- Loose dental crowns in Winchester, VA, that can be rebonded.
How it’s done: Dentists may use a composite resin to fill chips or cracks, or re-cement the crown if it’s come loose. This is often a quick, affordable fix that can be done in a single visit.
When Replacement Is Necessary
In more serious cases, repair isn’t an option. You’ll likely need a new crown if:
- The crack goes all the way through.
- There’s decay underneath the crown.
- The crown no longer fits properly.
- The tooth structure beneath is damaged.
How it’s done: A dentist will remove the broken crown, clean the area, and take new impressions for a custom replacement. In the meantime, you may receive a temporary crown.
According to the American College of Prosthodontists, approximately 2.3 million implant-supported crowns are made each year in the U.S. alone—and while they’re built to last, up to 15% require repair or replacement within the first 10 years.
What’s The Cost Difference?
While replacement is costlier, sometimes it’s the only way to protect the tooth underneath and restore full function.
How To Prevent Crown Breakage In The Future?
No one wants to go through this twice. Here’s how to extend the life of your next crown:
- Avoid chewing ice or hard objects.
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth.
- Maintain great oral hygiene—floss around your crown!
- Visit a dentist regularly to check the crown condition.
- Don’t ignore small chips or cracks—they can quickly get worse.
So… Repair or Replace?
Here’s a quick rule of thumb:
- Minor damage? Likely repairable.
- Major cracks, decay, or a bad fit? Replacement is your best bet.
Ultimately, the dentist will assess the damage with X-rays and clinical evaluation to recommend the right path.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Ignore a Broken Crown
A broken dental crown is more than a cosmetic issue—it can lead to pain, infection, and tooth loss if left untreated. The good news? Whether it’s a quick fix or time for a new crown, modern dentistry makes the process easier and more comfortable than ever.
If your crown cracks, chips, or falls off, don’t wait. Contact our dentist right away because the sooner you act, the better your chances of saving both your smile and pocket.