The mouth can be a pretty harsh place. Between chewing forces, temperature changes from hot and cold foods, and natural bacteria, dental work is constantly tested. So, what makes a crown last the test of time? The answer lies in one crucial factor: the quality of its seal to the tooth.

At Anderson Perry Dental in Kansas City, MO, we often see patients who come in with older crowns or fillings that have started to fail. When a crown loses its seal—even slightly—it allows microscopic leakage. Over time, bacteria sneak in, leading to hidden decay beneath the restoration. This decay can weaken the tooth’s foundation, cause pain, or even result in the crown de-bonding entirely.

The Case

The images below show a perfect example:

• Before: An older crown looked intact on the surface, but x-rays revealed leakage around the margins. This allowed bacteria to slip underneath, leading to decay and ultimately loosening the crown.
• During Treatment: Once the compromised crown was removed, the extent of the damage became clear. Decay had undermined the underlying tooth structure, requiring careful cleaning and preparation.
• After: The tooth was rebuilt and restored with a new, custom crown. Notice how the new restoration forms a seamless, tight bond with the natural tooth. This strong seal not only restores appearance and function but also protects against future leakage and decay.