Porcelain crowns can become damaged after years of use. While their average lifespan is over 15 years, improper oral care may lead to earlier failure. So how can you tell if a crown is no longer functioning properly? And how can you protect and repair your dental crowns? Let’s explore the key signs and solutions.

How to Tell If Your Porcelain Crown Is Damaged

Damaged porcelain crowns often show signs such as receding gums, tooth decay, cracks or chips in the crown, or a darkening at the gum line (especially with metal-based crowns). Specifically:

🦷 Gum Recession Around the Crown

Gum recession is one of the most common signs of aging or failing dental work. When this happens, the tooth root becomes exposed, and the gums around the crown may appear red or inflamed. You may feel sensitivity or discomfort when consuming hot or cold food and drinks.
Causes include improper oral hygiene, a diet high in fats and protein, or poorly fitted crowns—either too tight or too loose—placed by inexperienced dentists.

🦷 Tooth Decay Beneath the Crown

If the crown is not sealed properly, the underlying tooth may be exposed to bacteria, leading to decay. Though the porcelain itself doesn’t decay, the natural tooth and pulp underneath can still be affected.
Signs include discoloration (yellow, brown, or black) and increasing pain. This is often due to improper preparation or low-quality dental work from non-reputable clinics.

🦷 Cracked or Chipped Crown

Even the strongest porcelain can chip or crack—especially when biting hard or sticky foods, or due to trauma.
In the early stages, cracks may go unnoticed, but over time bacteria can enter and cause infection or pulp damage.

🦷 Dark Gum Line (with Metal-Based Crowns)

This usually happens with porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, where oxidation occurs over time.
The only effective solution is to replace the crown with an all-ceramic or zirconia crown to restore aesthetics.

How to Protect Your Porcelain Crowns from Damage

To extend the life of your crowns and avoid complications, follow these expert care tips:

✅ Oral Hygiene

• Brush at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.

• Use dental floss or a water flosser to clean between teeth.

• Don’t forget to gently clean the gum line to prevent inflammation and recession.

✅ Diet and Chewing Habits

• Avoid chewing hard, sticky, or tough foods like hard candy, coconut candy, or crab shells.

• Cut back on sugary snacks and tobacco.

• Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables to naturally clean your mouth.

✅ Regular Check-ups and Professional Cleaning

• Visit your dentist every 6 months for scaling and examination.

• Professional cleaning helps remove tartar and plaque and repair minor cracks if needed.

• Early detection of abnormalities can prevent serious damage, reduce aesthetic issues, and save treatment costs.