Dental crowns and bridges are crucial in restoring damaged or missing teeth, providing functional and aesthetic benefits to patients. However, these restorations may become loose or dislodged over time, requiring recementation to ensure their stability and longevity.

Recementation refers to reattaching a dental crown or bridge to its underlying tooth structure using dental cement. At Summerland Dental, this procedure is commonly performed when a crown or bridge becomes loose, dislodged, or detached due to factors such as trauma, decay, or normal wear and tear. Recementation in Summerland Key, FL, restores the integrity of the restoration, ensuring proper fit, function, and aesthetics while preventing complications such as tooth sensitivity, decay, or further damage to the underlying tooth. 

When Is RecementationNecessary? 

Poor Fit or Marginal Integrity 

If a crown or bridge is poorly fitted or lacks proper marginal adaptation to the underlying tooth structure, it may become loose or dislodged over time. This can occur due to inaccurate impressions, improper fabrication, or inadequate cementation techniques. 

Trauma or Injury 

Accidental trauma or injury to the mouth can cause crowns or bridges to become dislodged or partially detached from the teeth. This can result from activities such as sports injuries, falls, or biting down on hard objects. For more information, contact us today!

Decay or Structural Damage 

Dental decay, erosion, or structural damage to the underlying tooth can compromise the integrity of the cement bond, leading to crown or bridge failure. In some cases, decay may develop beneath the restoration, causing it to become loose or dislodged.

Normal Wear and Tear 

Over time, dental cement may degrade or wear down, compromising the retention of crowns and bridges. Additionally, repeated biting and chewing forces can place stress on the cement bond, leading to loosening or displacement of the restoration. 

The Recementation Procedure 

Our dentist in Summerland Key, FL, begins by evaluating the condition of the crown or bridge and assessing the underlying tooth structure. This may involve visual inspection, palpation, and radiographic imaging to determine the extent of the problem and identify any underlying issues, such as decay or damage. If the crown or bridge has become loose or dislodged, any residual cement or debris is removed from the restoration and the underlying tooth structure. This may be accomplished using dental instruments, ultrasonic scalers, or air abrasion techniques. 

The underlying tooth structure is cleaned, dried, and prepared to receive the crown or bridge. This may involve removing decay or damaged tissue, shaping the tooth to accommodate the restoration, and ensuring proper fit and alignment. Once the tooth preparation is complete, the dentist selects an appropriate dental cement and applies it to the inner surface of the crown or bridge. The restoration is then carefully positioned over the prepared tooth and gently pressed into place to ensure proper seating and alignment. 

Any excess cement is removed from around the margins of the restoration to prevent interference with the bite and minimize the risk of gum irritation or inflammation. This may be accomplished using dental floss, dental instruments, or specialized cleaning solutions. Our dentist in Summerland Key, FL, checks the patient's bite to ensure proper occlusion and alignment of the restored tooth or teeth. Adjustments may be made to provide a comfortable and functional bite relationship.

Once the crown or bridge has been securely reattached and the bite adjusted, the dentist evaluates the restoration for fit, stability, and aesthetics. Any final adjustments are made, and the restoration is polished to achieve a smooth and natural appearance. 

Preventive Measures and Post-Recementation Care 

• Maintain a regular oral hygiene routine, including brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and using antimicrobial mouth rinses as recommended by our dentist. Proper oral hygiene helps prevent decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems that can compromise the integrity of dental restorations. 
• Schedule regular dental check-ups in Summerland Key, FL, and cleanings to monitor the condition of your dental restorations and address any issues promptly. Our dentist can detect early signs of cement failure or other problems and take proactive measures to prevent complications. 
• Avoid consuming sticky, hard, or excessively chewy foods that can place undue stress on dental restorations and increase the risk of dislodgement or damage. Opt for softer foods and cut foods into smaller, bite-sized pieces to minimize strain on the teeth and restorations. 
• If you experience any signs of crown or bridge failure, such as increased sensitivity, pain, or mobility of the restoration, contact our dentist immediately for evaluation and treatment. Early intervention can help prevent further damage and the need for more extensive dental procedures. 

Recementation of dental crowns and bridges is a standard dental procedure aimed at restoring the stability, function, and aesthetics of compromised restorations. If you have questions about recementation or require dental treatment for a loose or dislodged crown or bridge, visit Summerland Dental at 24986 Overseas Hwy, Summerland Key, FL 33042, or call (305) 745-1522 for more information.