INFLAMED RED GUMS AROUND A CROWN
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the causes of inflamed red gums around a crown?
1) Bacterial plaque
Build up of bacterial plaque that has not been adequately cleaned from around the crown particularly if the latter has a surface that is rough.
2) Crown fit
A poor fit of the crown to the tooth particularly if it occurs below the gum.
3) Crown shape
A crown that is bulky will prevent access for cleaning especially if it occurs between the teeth.
4) Alloy sensitivity
In a crown containing metal, an allergic reaction may occur due to the presence of the metals palladium or nickel.
Inflammation will occur where the metal is in contact with the gum, and in severe cases will cause rapid loss of the tooth supporting bone.
5) Crown margin location
Inflammation will occur at the junction of the crown and the tooth (the crown margin), if it is placed too deep below the gum and to close to the tooth supporting bone.
2. What is the treatment for inflamed red gums around my crown?
1) Bacterial plaque
Revaluate and improve home care procedures.
Replacement of the crown if its surface is rough.
2) Crown fit
Replacement of the ill-fitting crown will not only reduce inflammation but lessen the possibility of decay at the crown margin.
3) Crown shape
Replacement of the poorly shaped crown will allow better access for adequate home care.
4) Alloy sensitivity
Allergy testing for a specific metal can be carried out particularly where multiple crowns are involved.
Replacement of a crown containing metal with a metal free ceramic crown.
5) Crown margin location
A surgical procedure may be required to allow removal of the supporting bone and change the location of the crown margin in relationship to the bone and gum.
3. What happens if I do nothing about red inflamed gums around my crown?
Depending on the cause:
The tooth may be lost due to the destruction of the supporting bone.
Recession of the gum may occur.
The gum will bleed, be unsightly and possibly painful.