If you have tooth decay under the crown, getting it treated early is essential. The treatment depends on how bad the decay is. The table below shows the simple steps involved, from seeing your dentist and checking the decay to cleaning it out, possibly doing a root canal, or replacing the crown if needed:
Treatment Step | Action |
1. Dental Examination | Visit your dentist for a check-up and X-rays to assess the decay. |
2. Minor Decay | The dentist cleans the decay and reseals the crown to protect the tooth. |
3. Advanced Decay | A root canal may be required if the decay has reached the tooth’s pulp. |
4. Crown Replacement | Replace the crown if it’s damaged or the decay is too extensive to repair. |
One patient at Smile Point Dental told us, “I thought the sensitivity under my crown was no big deal. When I finally went to the dentist, I needed a root canal and a new crown. I wish I had come in sooner!”
3 Ways to Treat a Tooth Decay Under the Crown
If you find out that there’s decay under your crown, it’s essential to think about how to treat it. The treatment you need depends on how bad the decay is. Let’s break down some options:
1. Crown Replacement Procedure
If the decay is extensive, the best solution might be to replace the crown entirely. Here’s what the procedure typically involves:
- The dentist will remove the old crown and clean out any decayed tissue.
- If the tooth underneath is still strong enough, a new crown will be placed over it.
- A root canal may be required to save the tooth if the decay is severe.
“I was relieved when my dentist explained that replacing the crown would solve my problem. The process was smooth, and now my tooth feels healthy again!” A Smile Point Dental patient.

2. Root Canal Under Crown
If decay has reached the nerve of your tooth, a root canal may be needed. A root canal under a crown is similar to a traditional root canal but requires extra care to protect the crown. Here’s what happens:
- The dentist will remove the decayed tissue and clean the inside of the tooth.
- A filling will be placed in the space, and the crown will be placed back on top.
- This procedure saves your tooth, allowing you to keep the crown in place.
“Root canal treatment under a crown is highly effective. We take extra precautions to preserve the integrity of the crown, and most patients can go on with their day-to-day activities right after treatment.” – Smile Point Dental professional.

3. Fixing Loose Crowns with Decay
If your crown has loosened due to decay, the dentist will typically:
- Remove the loose crown.
- Clean the tooth to remove the decay.
- Either re-cement the crown or replace it if the damage is too significant.
“After my crown became loose, I was worried it was too late to fix it. Thankfully, my dentist cleaned everything up and replaced the crown with a new one. I’m back smiling confidently!” – A Smile Point Dental Patient.
If decay is found under a crown, treatments like a dental filling, onlays, or inlays may restore the tooth. If the crown is loose, it can be re-cemented or bonded. Moreover, antibiotics might be prescribed for infections, and if the decay has reached the nerve, a root canal could be necessary to save the tooth.
What Causes Tooth Decay Under Crowns?
Even though a crown is designed to protect your tooth, it isn’t invincible. Here are some common reasons why decay happens under crowns, along with ways to prevent it:
Cause | What It Is | Prevention Tips |
Poor Oral Hygiene | Plaque and bacteria can build up where the crown meets your gum line. | Brush twice daily, floss regularly, and use an antibacterial mouthwash. |
Gum Recession | Gaps form between the crown and gums, exposing areas to bacteria. | Visit your dentist to monitor gum health and address the recession early. |
Loose Crowns | A poorly fitted or loose crown allows bacteria to seep underneath. | Ensure crowns are correctly fitted and visit your dentist if they feel loose. |
Diet | Sugary and acidic foods weaken teeth and promote decay. | Limit sugary snacks, drink water after meals, and choose tooth-friendly foods. |
Patient Experience:
“I had a crown placed years ago, and everything seemed fine. But recently, I started feeling sensitivity around the crown. It turned out that decay had been building up under it for months. My dentist said it was caused by gum recession and a slight gap forming between my crown and tooth. I was shocked, but luckily, we caught it early!” – A Smile Point Dental Patient.
For an in-depth look at how to detect and treat decay under crowns, check out this informative article from the Dental Health Society, offering valuable insights on prevention and solutions: Decay Under Crowns: What to Watch for and How to Fix It.
Keep Your Smile Healthy with Smile Point Dental
At Smile Point Dental, our team is committed to providing top-notch dental care to keep your smile healthy and shining. Whether you need a crown replacement, root canal treatment, or advice on crown care, we’re here to help. Book your appointment today!
How to Prevent Tooth Decay Under Crowns
The best way to deal with tooth decay under crowns is to stop it from happening in the first place. Here are a few simple tips to help you protect your crowns:
- Brush and Floss Regularly: Make sure to clean around the edges of the crown. Bacteria love hiding in those small gaps.
- Watch What You Eat: Avoid sticky or sugary foods contributing to decay.
- Regular Checkups: Your dentist can catch problems early, even if you’re not experiencing symptoms yet.
- Avoid Grinding Your Teeth: Bruxism can damage crowns and increase the risk of decay.
If you have concerns about your dental crowns or notice any tooth decay symptoms, you can rely on our help at Smile Point Dental. Our professional team will guide you through the process, determine the causes of tooth decay, and perform the best treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Decay Under Crowns
Tooth decay under crowns is a concern for many. Here are some common questions and their answers:
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Does a dental crown cause tooth decay?
No, a dental crown itself doesn’t cause decay. However, if the crown doesn’t fit correctly or has a gap between the crown and the tooth, bacteria can enter and lead to decay.
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What are the symptoms of decay under a crown?
Symptoms can include sensitivity to hot or cold, pain when chewing, swelling of the gums around the crown, and bad breath.
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How can I prevent decay under my crown?
Maintaining good oral hygiene, visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups, and avoiding sugary or sticky foods can help prevent decay under your crown.
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How is decay under a crown treated?
Treatment depends on the severity of the decay. Options may include cleaning and re-cementing the crown, performing a root canal, or replacing the crown entirely.
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Is decay under a crown dangerous?
Yes, if left untreated, it can lead to infection, severe pain, and even tooth loss.
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Can I treat decay under my crown myself?
It may not cause pain initially, but it can lead to discomfort and sensitivity as it progresses.