What to Know About an Infected Dental Crown?

Highlights

• A dental crown can’t get infected, but the tooth or gum underneath can.
• Common signs include pain, swelling, bad breath, and sensitivity near the crown.
• Causes range from decay under the crown to failed root canals or gum disease.
• Treatment may involve antibiotics, root canal, or crown replacement, depending on severity.
• Early care is key to avoiding complications and saving the natural tooth.

Is Your Dental Crown Infected? Here’s How to Know 

Dealing with dental discomfort can be unsettling, but knowing what to look for can make all the difference. Common signs of an infected crown include pain, swelling, sensitivity, or a persistent bad taste in your mouth. Sometimes, you might even notice redness or tenderness around the area of your crown. 

Crown infections happen when bacteria get trapped under or around the crown, often as a result of issues like poor fit, tooth decay, or gum infections. It’s important to take action early to prevent further complications.

What Is a Dental Crown Infection?

A dental crown infection occurs when the area beneath or around a dental crown becomes affected by bacteria. While the crown itself is not alive and cannot become infected, the natural tooth underneath, its root, or the surrounding gum tissue can be at risk.

This type of infection can happen when decay was not fully treated before placing the crown, or if a root canal previously performed in the crowned tooth fails. Over time, bacteria can penetrate through tiny cracks, loose-fitting crowns, or areas where the gum has pulled away from the tooth, leading to discomfort and complications.

Common Signs of an Infected Crown 

Recognizing the signs of an infected dental crown early can help you avoid complications and seek treatment before the condition worsens. Below, we’ll explore common symptoms and when it’s time to call your dentist. 

Symptoms to Watch For 

Some of the most common signs of an infected crown include: 

• Persistent tooth pain or throbbing that doesn’t go away over time. 
• Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks that feels sharper than usual. 
• Swelling near the gum line, often accompanied by tenderness or puffiness. 
• Bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth that persists. 
• Redness or pus around the crown, which could indicate infection. 

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to monitor them closely and take action to prevent further irritation or potential damage.

What Causes an Infected Crown?

Here are the most common reasons for an infected crown:

• Decay under the crown – If bacteria reach the tooth structure beneath the crown, decay can develop unnoticed until it becomes severe. 
• Failed or incomplete root canal – When part of the root system remains infected or untreated, this can lead to issues even after the crown placement. 
• Gum disease affecting the crowned tooth – Gum problems like gingivitis or periodontitis can compromise the tooth’s health, even with a crown in place.
• Trauma or cracks in the crown allowing bacteria in – Damage to the crown, like chips or fractures, can create openings for bacteria to invade.

Treatment Options for an Infected Crown in Palo Alto 

Our experienced team will evaluate your situation and recommend the best course of action based on your unique needs. 

What We Typically Recommend 

• Antibiotics (in cases of spreading infection) 
• Root canal therapy (if the pulp is involved) 
• Crown replacement or repair 
• Extraction in severe cases (though this is rare) 

Will I Need a New Crown? 

The need for a replacement crown depends largely on the extent of the damage or infection. Using modern imaging and diagnostic tools, we ensure that we find the best and least invasive solution for your case.

Gentle, Experienced Crown Care in Palo Alto 

We pride ourselves on delivering personalized, patient-first dental care. We combine modern dental technology with a warm, compassionate approach to ensure you feel at ease from start to finish. With years of experience handling intricate crown procedures, we take every measure to provide precise, effective care tailored specifically to your needs.

How to Prevent Future Infections 

Taking steps to prevent infections now can save you from more serious dental issues later. Here’s how to keep your teeth and gums healthy and protected:

• Practice excellent oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice daily, floss regularly, and use an antibacterial mouth rinse. 
• Don’t skip your routine cleanings: Regular professional cleanings help catch small problems before they become big ones. 
• Watch for signs early: Pay attention to any loosening, discomfort, or unusual pain in your teeth or gums. 
• Address chips or cracks quickly: Even small damages can allow bacteria to enter, getting them checked promptly can minimize risk. 

Staying proactive with your dental care is key to avoiding infections and keeping your smile in great shape!

Worried About an Infected Crown? Let’s Take a Look

If something doesn’t feel right with your crown, don’t wait it out. Ignoring discomfort could lead to more serious dental issues over time, and we’re here to ensure that doesn’t happen.

If you’re in Palo Alto or surrounding areas, you’ve got a partner in dental health ready to help.

Reach Out Today: 

• (650) 547-8002 
• info@dmdpaloalto.com 
• Serving Palo Alto and nearby communities 
• Book an appointment online 
• Follow us on Instagram 

Your smile deserves the best care!

Frequently Asked Questions About Infected Crowns

1. How do I know if my crown is infected?

Common signs include pain, swelling, sensitivity, or a bad taste or smell near the crown. If you notice any of these, it’s best to schedule a dental visit right away.

2. What should I do if my crown hurts?

Call your dentist promptly. While discomfort could be from grinding or irritation, persistent pain may point to an infection that needs treatment.

3. Can you fix an infected crown without removing it?

Sometimes, yes, especially if the issue is mild or caught early. But in many cases, the crown may need to be removed, treated, and replaced to fully address the problem.

4. Will I need a root canal if my crown is infected?

If the infection has reached the tooth’s pulp, a root canal is likely. We use precise imaging to evaluate the situation and recommend the most comfortable option.