Dental crowns are commonly used to restore and protect teeth that have been weakened by decay, fractures, or previous dental work. However, while crowns serve as a protective barrier, they do not make a tooth immune to infection. If bacteria manage to reach the tooth beneath the crown, it can lead to an infection that requires prompt attention.
Many people wonder whether a crown infection can resolve on its own. The truth is, a dental infection will not go away without professional treatment, and delaying care can lead to serious complications.
Can a Crown Infection Go Away on Its Own?
A crown infection will not resolve on its own because the bacteria causing it will continue to multiply. Unlike minor irritations that may subside, an infection only worsens over time. While your body has natural defenses, it cannot eliminate an infection inside a crowned tooth without intervention from a dentist.
This is true regardless of where you had your dental work done, including those who have received dental crowns in Turkey, where high-quality, affordable dental care is widely available. If you suspect an infection, seeking prompt treatment is essential, whether at home or by consulting a professional dentist in Turkey for follow-up care.
What Happens If You Ignore a Crown Infection?
Ignoring an infection can lead to:
- Increased pain and swelling, making it harder to eat or speak.
- Spread of infection to the tooth root, surrounding gums, or jawbone.
- Formation of a painful abscess, which may require surgical drainage.
- Risk of systemic infection if bacteria enter the bloodstream.
How Long Can You Wait Before Seeing a Dentist?
If you experience persistent pain, swelling, or pus discharge around a crowned tooth, it is crucial to seek dental care as soon as possible. Dental infections do not heal on their own and can worsen rapidly, leading to severe pain, tooth damage, and even life-threatening complications if left untreated.
A mild discomfort or slight sensitivity may not always be a cause for alarm, but if you notice progressive pain, throbbing sensations, or increased swelling, it could indicate a growing infection that requires urgent attention. Waiting too long to address a crown infection can allow bacteria to spread deeper into the tooth root, surrounding gums, or even the jawbone, leading to more complex and costly treatments such as root canals, extractions, or even surgical procedures.
In severe cases, an untreated infection can lead to a dental abscess, a pocket of pus that forms due to bacterial infection. Abscesses can cause intense pain, facial swelling, fever, and difficulty swallowing or breathing, requiring emergency dental or medical intervention. If bacteria from the infection enter the bloodstream, it can result in a condition known as sepsis, a potentially life-threatening infection that can affect the entire body.
The timeline for seeking dental care depends on the severity of symptoms. If you experience mild discomfort, scheduling a routine dental appointment within a few days may be sufficient.
However, if you have severe pain, noticeable swelling, foul-tasting discharge, or difficulty chewing, you should see a dentist immediately to prevent further complications. Delaying treatment increases the risk of tooth loss, gum disease, and more extensive oral health issues that could have been prevented with early intervention.
If you suspect a crown infection, it’s always better to act sooner rather than later. Early treatment can help save the affected tooth, relieve pain, and restore your oral health with minimal intervention. If you’re unsure whether your symptoms require urgent care, contact your dentist for professional advice.
Ready to Take Steps?
A crown infection is not something to ignore, as it will not heal without proper treatment. Early intervention can save your tooth, reduce pain, and prevent serious complications. If you suspect an infection beneath your dental crown, contact DentaVivo today to schedule an appointment. Our experienced dental team will provide a thorough evaluation and effective treatment options to restore your oral health.