Does ultrasonic scaling result in crown displacement?

Question

Hello doctor,

Last month, I had a crown placed on my upper right canine in another country following the RCT treatment.

I am currently in my native country. However, two days ago, I had my teeth cleaned using an ultrasonic scaler in a clinic. Following that, I experienced some discomfort and mild pain around the margins of the crown. I can feel the edges with my tongue. I wanted to know whether my crown had been displaced. Also, I would like to know if using the ultrasonic scaler on the crown is safe. Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

The use of an ultrasonic scaler may have caused cement material to be dislodged from the margins, or maybe calculus deposits were removed around the crown. There is no need to be concerned because the gums will grow around it if the gap is minimal. Otherwise, you might request that restorative material be placed in the space between the crown and the tooth to cover the edges.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

No, the crown has not been displaced. However, there is a possibility that some calculus deposits or cement around the edge have been dislodged, allowing you to feel the sharp edges. There is no need to be concerned because the gums will normally grow around it, and you will no longer feel it after a few weeks. If possible, please attach a clear zoomed-in image for better assessment. Meanwhile, if you are experiencing discomfort, you should visit your dentist for a direct examination.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.

Answer 3

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I looked over the image (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity). It appears that the gums receded slightly, causing calculus to deposit around the space on the edge of the crown, and when the scaling was done, the calculus was removed, resulting in the gap. There is no reason to be concerned. Brushing too hard can cause gum recession, so always use a soft bristles brush.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.

Answer 4

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Since crowned teeth are completely covered, we rarely need to use a scaler around them. The gum recession did not occur after cleaning but rather gradually over the past time, and the edge of the crown may have had calculus (a hard substance created by mineralized plaque on the surfaces of the tooth) or irregular restorative material.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.

Answer 5

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

You may ask your dentist to fill the crown with composite or glass ionomer filling. If the gums were swollen before scaling, it indicated infection in that area. Is the pain severe and continuous, or do you experience pain or sensitivity when you consume anything hot or cold?

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.

Answer 6

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

No, it will not affect the crown or teeth. You can get a check-up done for restorations when you go back. The pain will go away as the gums around it heal. Gargle with warm salt water twice a day to relieve mild discomfort.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.