Is It Time to Upgrade Your Dental Crowns or Fillings? Here’s How to Know

For many of our patients, dental crowns and fillings are long-term solutions that restore function and aesthetics for years.

However, like any medical device, they are not designed to last forever. Understanding the signs that indicate a need for replacement is crucial for maintaining optimal oral health.  

The Lifespan of Dental Restorations: What to Expect 

Dental fillings, particularly amalgam (silver) fillings, can last between 10 to 15 years, while modern composite resin (tooth-colored) fillings typically last 7 to 10 years with proper care. Dental crowns, which cap a damaged tooth, generally have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years, though many can last significantly longer.

This longevity is highly dependent on factors such as your oral hygiene habits, dietary choices (like consumption of sugary or acidic foods and drinks), and whether you grind or clench your teeth. Regular check-ups at our Devon practice are essential for monitoring the condition of your restorations over time. 

Key Indicators Your Crown or Filling May Need Attention 

Recognizing the early warning signs can save you from discomfort and more extensive dental work down the line. We advise our patients to be mindful of the following symptoms.

Pain or Sensitivity in a Treated Tooth

A sudden or increasing sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli around a crowned tooth or filled tooth is a primary indicator.

This discomfort often suggests that the seal between the restoration and your natural tooth has been compromised. Bacteria and debris can infiltrate this microscopic gap, leading to decay underneath the restoration or irritation of the tooth’s nerve.

A Visible Crack, Chip, or Rough Edge

If you feel a sharp or rough edge with your tongue, it likely means a portion of the filling or crown has fractured. Even a small crack can undermine the structural integrity of the restoration and the tooth itself.

A cracked crown can allow bacteria to penetrate, while a chipped filling creates a direct pathway for decay. We can assess the damage and determine if a repair or full replacement is necessary.

Discoloration or Dark Areas

Over time, the margin where your crown or filling meets the natural tooth can darken. This is often a sign of recurrent decay beneath the restoration. Metal amalgam fillings can also create a greyish hue visible through the tooth enamel.

In the case of crowns, especially porcelain-fused-to-metal ones, a dark line at the gum line may appear as gums recede naturally with age, which some patients choose to upgrade for aesthetic reasons.

Floss Shredding or Catching

When you floss around a crown or filling, the floss should slide out with a slight resistance. If your floss consistently shreds or catches on a specific spot, it signals a rough or overhanging margin that needs to be addressed. This imperfection can trap plaque and food, accelerating decay and gum disease.

The Restoration Feels Loose

Any sensation of movement in a crown or filling is a clear sign that the adhesive bond has failed. A loose restoration is an emergency; it leaves the underlying tooth vulnerable to fracture and infection.