I’ve had four crowns in my lifetime, but they’ve all held. I got my first CEREC crown and it’s only lasted a few months. In between that time, it kept causing a lot of trouble with pain when I bite down. Is this a CEREC issue or a dentist issue? I was going to a new dentist when I received the CEREC crown.
Deborah
Dear Deborah,
A CEREC machine
When you have pain when biting down on your crown, it’s usually for one of two reasons.
- There is still an infection.
- The crown is sitting too high
Because your crown broke, I think the problem is it was sitting too high. That causes all the force of your bite to concentrate on that spot. Usually, a crown can take that kind of force for a while. And CEREC crowns are just as strong as traditional crowns. The pain generally, tips off the dentist something is wrong and he adjusts the crown into proper position. Did your dentist try adjusting it?
It’s a moot point now that the crown is broken, it would just help me determine if the dentist paid attention to the fact you told him you’re in pain.
Options When a CEREC Crown Breaks
Because this crown didn’t last even the minimum lifespan of a crown, you have the right to ask for a refund and have it done by someone else. Or, if you prefer, you can give him another chance and ask him to redo the crown.
If he’s unwilling to do either, you may have to put up a small fight for the refund. Let him know you’re willing to contact the dental board and contact an attorney. Also, let him know you’ll be leaving reviews about the type of results and treatment you received from their office.
That might spur them onto more reasonable treatment. I know this isn’t your fault, but you don’t want to leave a broken crown too long. The tooth underneath could break and then you’ll be looking for a tooth replacement option instead.
This blog is brought to you by Kalamazoo implant dentist Dr. Susan Dennis.