Can You Get a Cavity Under a Dental Crown? What You Need to Know

Dental crowns are designed to protect and restore damaged teeth, but they don’t make your teeth immune to decay. Many people assume that once a crown is placed, the underlying tooth is fully protected from cavities—but that’s not entirely true. 

Yes! Cavities can still develop underneath a crown, and this can potentially lead to bigger dental issues if left untreated.

How Do Cavities Form Under a Crown?

Your dental crown covers the visible portion of the tooth, but the natural tooth structure underneath is still susceptible to decay. Over time, bacteria and plaque can accumulate around the edges of the crown. This is especially true if there are small gaps or if the cement holding the crown in place starts to wear down. If that bacteria finds its way underneath, it can erode the tooth and cause decay. 

4 Signs of Decay Under a Crown

Since the crown is hiding the area, it isn’t always easy to see if decay has crept in. However, there are a few signs you can watch for. Do you notice any of these signs below?

• Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods‍
• Pain or discomfort when biting or chewing‍
• Swelling or redness around the gum line near the crowned tooth‍
• A loose or shifting crown, which can indicate decay underneath

How to Prevent Cavities Under a Crown

There are some steps you can take to prevent cavities from happening under your crowns. Here are a few to get you started:

• Maintain excellent oral hygiene: You should be brushing two times a day and flossing daily, this includes around the edges of your crown. 
• Use fluoride toothpaste: This helps strengthen your enamel and can help reduce your risk of decay.  
• Visit your dentist regularly: Checkups and cleanings are important for catching any early signs of decay.  
• Avoid sticky and sugary foods: These can add to the plaque buildup you may already be experiencing.  

What to Do If You Suspect a Cavity Under Your Crown

If you notice discomfort or any signs of decay, schedule a visit with your dentist in Logan as soon as possible. They may need to remove the crown to assess and treat the cavity. In some cases, a new crown may be required after treating the decay.

Dental crowns do provide you with great protection, but they aren’t foolproof and shouldn’t be looked at as shields that can combat cavities. With proper care and regular dental visits, you can extend the life of your crown and keep your underlying tooth healthy.