Dental Crown Overhanging Margin
What Is A Dental Crown Overhanging Margin?
A Dental Crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. Ideally, the crown should fit perfectly over the tooth with a smooth transition from the natural tooth to the crown. However, an issue called an “overhanging margin” can occur when the edge of the crown extends past the natural contour of the tooth. This creates a ledge where food particles and bacteria can become trapped, potentially leading to oral health problems.
If you’ve had a dental crown placed, you may have heard your dentist mention an “overhanging margin.” Though a minor overhang might not cause immediate issues, it can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, or even tooth loss if left untreated. Before you contact a Toronto dentist to examine A Dental Crown Overhanging Margin, there are some things you should know as a patient:
- Why Do I Have A Dental Crown Overhanging Margin?
- Signs And Symptoms Of A Dental Crown Overhanging Margin
- Treatment Options For A Dental Crown Overhanging Margin
- Managing A Dental Crown Overhanging Margin Until You Can See The Dentist
If you have questions about A Dental Crown Overhanging Margin or other dental problems, please contact us for more information.
Why Do I Have A Dental Crown Overhanging Margin?
There are a few reasons why an overhanging margin might occur:
Improper Crown Design: The dental lab should ensure that the margin of the crown matches the contours of your tooth. When the design is inaccurate, an overhanging margin can result.
Inaccurate Crown Impression: If the dentist’s impression of your tooth is not accurate, it can lead to an ill-fitting crown. This may happen due to physical impressions being less precise, moisture or blood contamination, or excess gum tissue covering the tooth margins.
Understanding the potential causes of an overhanging margin can help you take steps to prevent it from happening or address it if it does occur. If you have further questions about why you might have a Dental Crown Overhanging Margin, please contact us.
Signs And Symptoms Of A Dental Crown Overhanging Margin
If you have an overhanging margin, you might notice one or more of these symptoms:
- Tooth Sensitivity: Discomfort when consuming hot or cold foods and drinks.
- Tooth Pain: Pain or pressure when biting or chewing.
- Gum Swelling: Swelling or tenderness in the gums surrounding the crown.
- Food Trapping: You may find food and debris getting stuck around the crown more frequently, leading to discomfort or bad breath.
- Noticeable Ledge Under Crown: You may feel a ledge between the crown and your tooth, indicating an overhang.
- Dark Discoloration Under Crown: A gray or dark hue under the crown could suggest decay or staining due to bacteria trapped by the overhanging margin.
- Floss Shredding: Floss may tear or shred when used around the affected crown.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your dentist. Left untreated, an overhanging margin can lead to more serious issues, such as tooth decay or gum disease. If you have further questions about signs and symptoms of a Dental Crown Overhanging Margin, please contact us.
Treatment Options For A Dental Crown Overhanging Margin
If you suspect a dental crown overhanging margin, your dentist may recommend one of the following solutions:
- Crown Adjustment: Minor overhangs can sometimes be adjusted by your dentist through reshaping the crown.
- Crown Replacement: If the overhang is significant or the crown is damaged, replacing the crown may be the best option.
- Root Canal Treatment: If the overhang has caused severe decay, a root canal may be necessary to remove damaged tissue.
- Crown Lengthening Surgery: If excess gum tissue is the issue, gum surgery may help to expose more of the tooth structure, allowing for a better-fitting crown.
The best treatment depends on the extent of the overhanging margin and any resulting damage to your tooth. If you have further questions about treatment options for a Dental Crown Overhanging Margin, please contact us.
Managing A Dental Crown Overhanging Margin Until You Can See The Dentist
If you think you have an overhanging margin but can’t get to your dentist right away, follow these steps to manage the situation:
- Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene: Keep the area as clean as possible by brushing and flossing gently around the crown. Rinsing with salt water or mouthwash can help reduce discomfort and infection risk.
- Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: If you’re experiencing pain or sensitivity, over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help until you see your dentist.
- Avoid Eating on the Affected Side: To avoid further irritation, try to avoid chewing on the side with the affected crown.
While these measures can help temporarily, it’s essential to schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible to prevent further damage. If you have further questions about how to manage and treat a Dental Crown Overhanging Margin, please contact us.
