Dental crowns are a common and highly effective treatment used to restore teeth that are damaged, weakened, or severely decayed. A crown acts like a protective “cap” that covers your natural tooth, helping restore its shape, strength, and appearance. With proper care, crowns can last for many years and allow you to eat, speak, and smile comfortably.
However, just like natural teeth, a crowned tooth can still develop problems. One of the most common concerns patients experience is infection underneath or around the crown. Understanding the warning signs of an infected crown can help you seek treatment early and avoid more serious dental complications.
Although crowns are designed to protect your tooth, the natural tooth structure underneath the crown is still vulnerable to bacteria. If plaque and bacteria build up around the edges of the crown — often due to inconsistent brushing, flossing, or skipping routine dental visits — they can sneak beneath the crown and begin damaging the tooth.
Infections usually develop gradually. They rarely happen overnight, which means your body often gives you warning signs that something isn’t right. Recognizing these early symptoms can help prevent further damage and preserve your oral health.
If you have a crown, it’s important to stay alert for any unusual symptoms. You may be experiencing an infection if you notice:
Persistent discomfort or pressure around a crowned tooth is often one of the earliest warning signs. The pain may be mild at first but can gradually worsen if the infection progresses.
Gums surrounding an infected crown may appear swollen, red, or tender to the touch. You may also notice bleeding when brushing or flossing around the area.
The presence of pus or fluid around the crown is a strong indication of infection. This discharge may also produce an unpleasant odor or taste.
If the crowned tooth begins to appear darker or different in color compared to surrounding teeth, it could indicate decay or damage beneath the crown.
A persistent bad taste in your mouth or chronic bad breath that doesn’t improve with brushing or mouthwash may signal bacteria trapped beneath the crown.
Increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks can indicate that the tooth under the crown has become irritated or infected.
Some patients may also experience:
If you experience any combination of these symptoms, it is important to contact your dentist as soon as possible.
Dental infections do not resolve on their own. Without treatment, the infection can spread to surrounding teeth, gums, and even other areas of the body. Early diagnosis allows for more conservative treatment and can help save your natural tooth.
When you visit your dentist, they will carefully examine the crown and may take digital X-rays to evaluate the tooth and surrounding bone. Depending on the severity of the infection, treatment may include:
Your dentist will always recommend the treatment option that best protects your long-term oral health and comfort.
The good news is that infections around crowns are often preventable. You can protect your crowned tooth by:
Maintaining good oral hygiene is one of the most effective ways to ensure your crown remains strong and healthy for years to come.
If you suspect your dental crown may be infected, seeking care early can help relieve discomfort and prevent further complications. The team at At TJ O'Shea DMD is committed to providing gentle, patient-focused care in a comfortable and welcoming environment.
We take time to listen to your concerns, explain your treatment options clearly, and create personalized care plans that fit your needs, goals, and budget. Whether you need preventive care, restorative treatment, or simply peace of mind, we are here to support your oral health every step of the way.
If you are experiencing symptoms or have concerns about a dental crown, we encourage you to schedule an appointment today. Taking action now can help keep your smile healthy, functional, and confident.
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