Short answer: sensitivity when you bite, a rough or sharp edge, a bad taste, food that keeps catching, or a crown that feels too high can all be early signs that a filling or crown needs attention. Many of these are simple to fix when found early, and you cannot judge the tooth underneath by looking, so an exam and X-rays are the reliable check.
Fillings and crowns do not last forever
Fillings and crowns are made to last many years, but they wear, chip and can leak at the edges, especially if you clench or grind. How long they last varies a lot from person to person. Decay can start again at the edge of a restoration, where it is hard to see.
Signs worth noticing
Take these together. One alone may be minor, and several at once are a good reason to book an exam.
- Sensitivity when you bite, or a sharp twinge when you release.
- A rough or sharp edge that catches your tongue or snags floss.
- Food that keeps getting stuck in the same place.
- A bad taste or smell from one spot.
- A crown that feels high or a bite that feels different since a recent visit.
- A loose crown, a visible gap, or a dark line at the edge.
- Swollen or tender gum next to the tooth, or lingering sensitivity to hot and cold.
A quick check at home: run clean floss gently between the teeth around the filling or crown. Shredding or catching can mean a rough edge. Notice any pain when you chew on that side, and write down what you find. If a crown comes off, keep it, and call us.
A crown that feels high
If a new or recent crown feels high when you bite, it is usually quick to adjust. Waiting means the tooth takes extra force and can become sore, so call rather than putting up with it. Our post on tooth sensitivity after a filling covers what is normal in the first days and what is not.
What an exam involves
We look at the edges and bite of each restoration, check for cracks and gum changes, and take X-rays where needed to see decay beneath a filling or crown that is not visible by eye. Depending on what we find, the answer may be to watch it, polish or adjust it, repair or replace it. We will explain the options and what each involves. See more on our dental crowns and composite fillings pages.
Something feel off with a filling or crown?
A short exam can tell us whether it needs a small adjustment or more. There is no obligation, and catching it early is usually simpler.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a filling needs to be replaced?
Signs include sensitivity when you bite, a rough or sharp edge, food catching in the same place, a bad taste, a visible gap or a dark line at the edge. Only an exam with X-rays can tell whether there is decay under the filling.
Why does my crown feel too high?
A new crown can sit slightly higher than the neighbouring teeth, so it takes extra force when you bite. This is usually a quick adjustment, so call us rather than waiting for it to settle.
What should I do if a crown comes off?
Keep the crown, avoid chewing on that side, and call us. We can often re-cement it if the tooth and crown are intact. Do not use household glue.
Can a tooth with a filling or crown still get decay?
Yes. Decay can begin again at the edge of a filling or crown, where it is hard to see and to clean. Regular exams and X-rays help catch it early.
How long do fillings and crowns last?
It varies from person to person. Bite forces, grinding, the size of the restoration, diet and home care all matter. Regular exams let us watch for wear and fix small problems before they grow.
This article is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional dental advice. You cannot judge the health of a tooth from signs at home. If you have pain, swelling or a loose crown, please book an exam or call us.
Related: Dental Crowns · Composite Fillings · Sensitivity After a Filling · Book a Consultation