Crowns have a natural look and feel that many patients consider superior to bridges and other forms of dental restoration. They can closely match the color, shade, shape and length of neighboring teeth and are often difficult to detect as artificial. They are generally considered affordable and are usually covered by insurance.

Crowns also have drawbacks. Many problems may require the crowns be replaced. Crowns may chip, fracture or break. Sometimes, chips or fractures can be repaired with composite resin without removing the crown. However, in many cases, the crown must be removed and a new crown placed.

In some cases, the porcelain part of a porcelain fused to metal crown may detach from the metal. It may come apart cleanly, or parts of the porcelain may remain attached to the metal. In some cases, these crowns can be bonded back together. However, they often must be replaced.

Tooth decay can still occur in the underlying tooth. Poor placement of the crown may allow food to get under the crown, or the cement may partially wear or wash out, making the crown loose and unstable. Patients should continue daily dental hygiene (brushing and flossing) and monitor any unusual changes around the crown. To avoid tooth decay, it is important to see a dentist as quickly as possible when a crown becomes loose. The crown can often be re-cemented before any damage to the tooth itself occurs. If the tooth does become damaged, the crown will no longer fit properly and a new crown will need to be made.

Occasionally, a crown may become loose and fall out entirely.  It is important to see a dentist as soon as possible to ensure that the crown and tooth are not damaged. If either becomes damaged, the crown will no longer fit properly and a new crown will need to be made.