I have had a dental crown for three months. Today it broke of, including the post. Is there a recommended fix for this? Should the dentist cover some of the cost? I was told a crown can last for years.
Preston
Dear Preston,
A poorly fitted crown can lead to TMJ problems
Bear in mind with everything I’m telling you here that I haven’t seen your dental crown or examined you. This is speculation. It is educated speculation, but still not an official diagnostic. Based on what you’ve said, it sounds like the tooth and post broke at the base. If that is the case, then the tooth cannot be saved.
It’s very possible the tooth was so far gone it couldn’t be saved anyway. That is not saying your dentist did anything wrong. It’s admirable any time a dentist tries to save a tooth. If it was a matter of the post being weak, it may be able to be re-done. If, however, the tooth can’t be saved you will need to replace it. The best tooth replacement option is dental implants.
Without a replacement, the teeth adjacent to the open space will shift or tip into it. Bite problems like that can lead to TMJ Disorder, which is painful.
Gorilla Bite
In some cases, there are patients with a bite so forceful it is known as gorilla bite. This can break a crown. Once you get a certain age, it will start to break your teeth down. One way to know if you have this issue is to look at the profile. If the bottom of the lower jaw is parallel to the upper jaw, that is evidence of gorilla bite.
If that is the case, you will need to get a nightguard or your natural teeth will start to break. This simple precaution will save you a fortune.
As to who pays for the crown; Without evidence of any fault on your dentist’s part, he won’t be required to pay for it. However, with a failed procedure, he may be willing to credit you for the cost of the procedure. That is completely up to him, though.
This blog is brought to you by Hoffman Estates Dentist Dr. William Becker.