Tooth decay underneath crowns and bridges can occur when bacteria get underneath the restoration and break down the tooth structure. This can happen due to various reasons, such as inadequate tooth preparation, a poorly fitting restoration, or a failure to maintain proper oral hygiene.
If left untreated, tooth decay underneath a crown or bridge can cause further damage to the tooth, leading to pain, infection, and potentially the need for a root canal or even tooth extraction. To prevent this from happening, it is important to practice good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly and visiting your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings.
Your dentist may also recommend X-rays or other diagnostic tests to monitor the tooth’s health and detect any signs of decay underneath the restoration. If tooth decay is detected, the dentist may need to remove the restoration, clean out the decay, and place a new restoration.
In some cases, the decay may be too extensive to repair, and the tooth may need to be extracted and replaced with a dental implant or other restoration. It is important to address any signs of tooth decay or other dental problems as soon as possible to prevent further damage and maintain good oral health.