Two weeks ago, I had a CEREC crown done. I was recently eating, when I felt something come loose in my mouth. I found out that my crown broke in half. The dentist offered to fix the crown free of charge. While I was thankful for this, I wanted to know why this happened. I want to be sure this was just a fluke circumstance and not an error made by the dentist.
Sincerely,
Randi
Dear Randi,
While this is quite rare, some things may have hinted that something was “off”, like tooth pain, jaw pain, or if the tooth was connecting first when you bit down.
Another possibility is the way the material handled stress, though it is unlikely that this is the case. However, if this were the case, it is possible there was some sort of defect in the material before use, though this, too, is unlikely.
Another thought is if you grind or clench your teeth, this may be the cause. Each tooth has a different threshold in terms of the amount of force it can withstand. This is why some restorations my break, while others do not. If this occurs during the day, practicing relaxation exercises can help. If it’s taking place at night, a night guard will prevent the grinding.
The majority of crowns can handle this to an extent, so you can’t rule out the material used or a mistake made by the dentist. It’s worth having him redo the procedure. It would be good to see what he thinks is the cause. Dentists have restorations fail from time to time. So long as this is not the norm, and he wants to fix the issue, it sounds like you’re in good hands.
What are CEREC Crowns?
CEREC crowns are innovative dental restorations crafted using CAD/CAM technology, allowing for the creation of customized ceramic crowns in a single dental visit. While known for their durability, unforeseen circumstances can lead to the breakage of a CEREC crown.
Immediate Actions for a Broken CEREC Crown:
- Retrieve the Broken Pieces:
If your CEREC crown broke off, you can carefully retrieve any broken pieces. This can be helpful for your dentist to assess the extent of the damage and determine the appropriate course of action.
- Contact Your Dentist:
Reach out to your dentist promptly to report the situation. Provide details about when the crown broke, any accompanying discomfort, and whether there are sharp edges that could irritate.
- Avoid DIY Fixes:
While it might be tempting to attempt a DIY fix using over-the-counter adhesives, it’s crucial to resist this urge. These adhesives are not designed for dental restorations and can complicate professional repairs.
Assessment and Temporary Measures:
- Dental Examination:
Schedule an appointment with your dentist for a thorough examination. Your dentist will assess the extent of the crown damage, examine the underlying tooth, and discuss suitable solutions.
- Temporary Measures:
If there is discomfort or sensitivity, your dentist may recommend temporary measures such as dental wax or over-the-counter dental cement to cover any exposed areas until the permanent repair can be made.
Options for Repairing a Broken CEREC Crown:
- Crown Repair:
In some cases, if the damage is minimal and the retrieved pieces are intact, your dentist may be able to repair the broken CEREC crown. This often involves carefully reassembling the pieces and bonding them securely.
- Crown Replacement:
If the damage is extensive or if the fit of the crown has been compromised, your dentist may recommend a complete replacement of the CEREC crown. This ensures the restoration maintains its integrity and functionality.
- Evaluation of Underlying Issues:
Your dentist will assess the underlying tooth to ensure there are no additional issues, such as decay or structural concerns, contributing to the crown breakage.
Preventive Measures for Future Breakage:
- Avoid Chewing Hard Objects:
Refrain from chewing on hard objects such as ice, pens, or hard candies, as these can contribute to crown breakage.
- Address Bruxism:
If you grind your teeth (bruxism), discuss this with your dentist. They may recommend a custom-fitted nightguard to protect your dental restorations and prevent further breakage.
- Regular Dental Check-ups:
Attend regular dental check-ups to monitor the condition of your CEREC crown and address any emerging issues promptly.
Conclusion: Restoring Integrity and Functionality
While a broken CEREC crown can be concerning, taking immediate and informed actions can lead to a successful resolution. Contact your dentist promptly, avoid DIY fixes, and follow their recommendations for repair or replacement. With the right approach, your CEREC crown can be restored to its optimal condition, ensuring continued comfort, functionality, and a confident smile
