Yes, teeth grinding can put extra stress on a dental crown and, over time, may contribute to chipping, cracking, loosening or other damage. The risk depends on factors such as how frequently you grind or clench your teeth, the amount of force involved, the condition of the underlying tooth, your bite and the type of crown.
Teeth grinding is medically known as bruxism. It can happen while you are awake or, more commonly, during sleep without you realizing it. The American Dental Association notes that signs of grinding can include chipped or cracked teeth and worn areas on the teeth.
If you already have a dental crown and regularly grind your teeth, protecting both the crown and the natural tooth underneath is important.
What Is Teeth Grinding or Bruxism?
Bruxism refers to repeatedly grinding, clenching or gnashing the teeth. Some people grind during the day, while others experience sleep bruxism and may not know they are doing it.
Common signs of teeth grinding include:
- Waking up with jaw soreness
- Frequent morning headaches
- Tooth sensitivity
- Flattened or worn tooth surfaces
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Jaw stiffness
- Tenderness while chewing
- Increased tooth or crown sensitivity
- A partner noticing grinding sounds during sleep
If you have recently received a crown and notice these symptoms, a dental examination can help determine whether grinding is affecting the restoration.
Can Teeth Grinding Damage a Dental Crown?
Yes, especially when grinding is frequent or forceful.
A dental crown is designed to restore and protect a damaged or weakened tooth. However, a crown is not indestructible. Cleveland Clinic explains that crowns can break or fracture over time and recommends discussing a custom mouth guard with a dentist if you grind or clench your teeth.
Repeated grinding can place strong forces on the biting surface of the crown. Depending on the crown material and individual circumstances, this may contribute to:
1. Crown Chipping
Repeated pressure can cause a small portion of some crown materials to chip. You may notice a rough edge when your tongue touches the crown.
2. Crown Cracking or Fracture
More severe or repeated forces may contribute to crown fracture. The risk can vary depending on the material, thickness, location of the tooth and other clinical factors.
The ADA notes that porcelain has a natural tendency to fracture and that crown fracture is among the complications reported with all-ceramic materials.
3. Crown Loosening
Grinding may place stress on the cemented connection between the crown and tooth. If a crown begins to feel loose, it should be examined by a dentist rather than repeatedly pushed back into place.
4. Damage to the Tooth Under the Crown
The crown covers and protects the visible portion of the tooth, but the natural tooth underneath still needs protection. Persistent bruxism can place stress on the remaining tooth structure.
5. Increased Wear
Grinding can produce repeated contact between opposing teeth. Over time, this can cause visible wear and changes to the biting surfaces.
Why Is Grinding Especially Concerning After a Dental Crown?
A crown is intended to restore the shape and function of a tooth. Your dentist also needs to make sure the crown works properly with your bite.
If the bite is not balanced or you are repeatedly clenching and grinding, excessive forces may be concentrated on particular areas.
This is why your dentist may assess:
- The crown’s fit
- Your bite
- Contact between opposing teeth
- Signs of wear
- The condition of the natural tooth
- Your jaw muscles and symptoms
- Evidence of nighttime grinding
If you have received a crown and feel that the crowned tooth hits before your other teeth when you bite down, contact your dentist for an evaluation.
Can a Porcelain Dental Crown Break From Teeth Grinding?
A porcelain crown can be durable, but no dental restoration is completely immune to excessive forces.
The ADA explains that porcelain can have a natural tendency to fracture, while research on different ceramic crown materials shows that fracture and survival can vary depending on material and clinical circumstances.
This does not mean that every person who grinds their teeth will break a porcelain crown.
The actual risk depends on several factors, including:
- Severity and frequency of bruxism
- Crown material
- Crown design and thickness
- Location of the crown
- Bite forces
- Condition of the underlying tooth
- Other oral habits
- Whether a protective night guard is used
If you are considering or already have a porcelain crown and suffer from frequent teeth grinding, discuss your options with your dentist.
For more information about the clinic’s crown treatment, you can explore our Porcelain Dental Crowns service.
How Do You Know If Teeth Grinding Has Damaged Your Crown?
Some crown problems are obvious, while others may only be detected during a dental examination.
Look out for:
A visible chip:
You may see a small piece missing from the crown.
A crack:
A visible line or sudden change in the crown should be checked by a dentist.
A loose crown:
If the crown moves when you bite or touch it, seek professional dental care.
A sharp edge:
A damaged crown may feel rough against your tongue or cheek.
New sensitivity:
Sensitivity to hot, cold or pressure may indicate that the crowned tooth needs examination.
Pain when biting:
Pain or discomfort while chewing should not be ignored.
Changes in your bite:
If the crowned tooth suddenly feels higher or different when you close your mouth, schedule an evaluation.
Cleveland Clinic recommends contacting a dentist if a crown becomes loose or develops cracks, chips or sharp edges.
How Can You Protect a Dental Crown From Teeth Grinding?
1. Ask About a Custom Night Guard
A dentist may recommend a custom-fitted night guard if you grind your teeth while sleeping.
The ADA specifically recommends discussing a custom guard with your dentist when you grind your teeth.
A properly designed appliance can help separate the upper and lower teeth and reduce direct tooth-to-tooth contact.
2. Attend Regular Dental Checkups
Regular dental examinations allow your dentist to look for early signs of:
- Crown wear
- Chipping
- Cracks
- Tooth wear
- Bite problems
- Jaw-related symptoms
Early detection may help prevent a small problem from becoming more complicated.
3. Avoid Extremely Hard Foods
If you have a crown, avoid unnecessarily biting hard objects or foods such as ice and very hard candies. Cleveland Clinic also recommends avoiding extremely hard, crunchy or chewy foods to help protect crowns.
4. Don’t Ignore Jaw Pain
Jaw soreness, headaches or facial discomfort may occur alongside bruxism. Cleveland Clinic identifies jaw pain and headaches among symptoms associated with teeth grinding.
If these symptoms are persistent, talk to a dental professional.
What Should You Do If Your Crown Has Already Chipped or Broken?
Do not try to repair a damaged crown yourself.
Contact your dentist and explain:
- When the damage happened
- Whether the crown is loose
- Whether you have pain
- Whether you have sensitivity
- Whether a piece of the crown has broken off
Your dentist can determine whether the crown can be repaired, needs adjustment or requires replacement.
If the tooth underneath has also been affected, additional dental treatment may be necessary.
Can a Night Guard Prevent Crown Damage From Grinding?
A night guard can help reduce direct contact between the teeth and protect against the effects of grinding. However, it is not a guarantee that a crown will never become damaged.
Cleveland Clinic recommends custom mouth guards as one way to help people who grind their teeth protect their teeth and reduce the effects of bruxism.
The best type of appliance depends on your individual bite, dental restoration and grinding pattern, so it is better to have one recommended or fitted by a dental professional.
Does Teeth Grinding Mean You Cannot Get a Dental Crown?
No.
Having bruxism does not automatically mean that you cannot receive a dental crown.
Instead, your dentist may take your grinding habit into consideration when planning your treatment. They may assess your bite, choose an appropriate restorative approach and recommend a protective appliance when appropriate.
If you need a crown because of a damaged or weakened tooth, delaying treatment without professional advice may allow the underlying dental problem to progress.
When Should You See a Dentist?
Make a dental appointment if you have:
- A loose dental crown
- A cracked or chipped crown
- Pain while biting
- New tooth sensitivity
- Jaw pain or morning headaches
- A noticeable change in your bite
- Repeated crown damage
- Signs that you may be grinding your teeth during sleep
If you live in or around Sector 79 Noida, The Dental Crowns provides dental treatment at Civitech Stadia, Sector 79, Noida. You can contact The Dental Crowns to discuss your dental concern or schedule an examination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can teeth grinding damage a permanent dental crown?
Yes. Frequent or forceful grinding can place additional stress on a crown and may contribute to wear, chipping, cracking or loosening. The exact risk depends on the crown and the individual’s bite and grinding pattern.
Can a night guard protect my dental crown?
A properly fitted night guard may help reduce direct contact between the teeth and protect against the effects of grinding. Your dentist can determine whether a night guard is appropriate for you.
Can teeth grinding crack a porcelain crown?
It can contribute to crown damage, including fracture, particularly when significant forces are repeatedly applied. However, not every person with bruxism will experience a cracked crown.
How do I know if I grind my teeth at night?
Possible signs include morning jaw soreness, headaches, worn or chipped teeth and a partner hearing grinding sounds while you sleep. A dentist can also identify physical signs of bruxism during an examination.
Can a damaged dental crown be repaired?
Depending on the type and extent of damage, a dentist may be able to repair or adjust a restoration, while some damaged crowns may need replacement. The appropriate treatment requires an examination.
Should I replace my crown if I grind my teeth?
Not necessarily. Crown replacement depends on the condition of the crown, underlying tooth, bite and other clinical factors. Your dentist should evaluate the restoration before deciding on replacement.
Final Takeaway
Teeth grinding can damage a dental crown, particularly when grinding is frequent or forceful. Chipping, cracking, wear and loosening are possible concerns, although the risk varies from person to person.
If you have a crown and regularly grind or clench your teeth, don’t wait until the crown breaks. A dental examination can identify signs of excessive forces and help determine whether a custom night guard or another approach may be appropriate.
For patients looking for dental crown treatment in Noida, The Dental Crowns offers porcelain crowns and other dental services. Explore our Porcelain Dental Crowns treatment or view all dental services to learn more.
