Dental crowns are a great solution to protect damaged or weakened teeth. But what happens when that crown starts feeling a little off? You may wonder, can you get a cavity under a crown? The short answer is yes.
Although crowns are made to be strong and protective, the natural tooth underneath is still vulnerable.
In this article, we’ll explain how cavities can form under a crown, how to recognize the signs, how they’re treated, and what you can do to prevent them in the future.
Can Crowns Get Cavities?
Technically, the crown itself—especially if it’s made of porcelain, metal, or ceramic—can’t get a cavity. But the tooth beneath the crown can still decay.
Especially near the edges where the crown meets the natural tooth. This area is called the margin, and if bacteria sneak in there, it can lead to a cavity under the crown.
Over time, food particles and plaque can build up around the crown if it’s not cleaned properly. If that happens, decay can develop without you even realizing it—until you start feeling pain or sensitivity.
How to find a cavity under a crown
A cavity under a crown isn’t always easy to spot, especially in the early stages. However, here are some signs that may indicate something is wrong:
- Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- Persistent pain or discomfort around the crowned tooth
- Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
- Swelling or gum irritation near the crown
- Dark spots or discoloration at the base of the crown
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to visit your dentist. They may take X-rays or perform a visual exam to confirm if there’s decay beneath the crown.
How to fix it
If your dentist finds a cavity under a crown, the treatment will depend on how severe the decay is:
- Minor decay: In some cases, the crown can be removed, the cavity cleaned and filled, and a new crown placed.
- Moderate decay: If the decay reaches deeper layers of the tooth, you might need a root canal before replacing the crown.
- Severe decay: Unfortunately, if the damage is too extensive, the tooth might need to be extracted.
The good news is that most cavities under crowns can be treated—especially when caught early.
How to prevent a cavity
The best way to prevent cavities under crowns is by keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Here are some simple tips:
- Brush your teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to clean around the edges of the crown
- Use mouthwash to help kill bacteria
- Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups
- Avoid sticky or sugary snacks, especially between meals
Also, if you grind your teeth at night, ask your dentist about a night guard. Grinding can weaken your crown and make it easier for bacteria to sneak in.
Don’t Wait—Get the Help Your Crown Deserves
At Somos Dental, we offer the most affordable dental care with a free consultation—even if you don’t have insurance—and free X-rays if needed. Our caring team is here to help you take care of your crowns and overall oral health.
Stop by one of our clinics—conveniently located in Phoenix and Dallas.
Phoenix:
Crown discomfort? Act early, stay protected.
Call 623-869-1091 or book your FREE CONSULTATION online. Reach out anytime via WhatsApp, Messenger, or SMS—we’re here for you!
If you’ve had a crown for a while and it’s starting to feel different, don’t ignore it. A cavity under a crown can get worse over time, but the earlier it’s treated, the better the outcome. Stay informed, keep up with your dental hygiene, and don’t hesitate to ask questions at your next appointment.
A healthy crown starts
with a quick check
