Potential problem with recent crown

When I was very young, I tripped and smashed one of my front teeth into 2. I've until recently I've just had a buildup of filling material on it, but about a month or so ago, I had a crown done. I was VERY pleased with the result - you cannot tell the difference between the real and the crown.

Now though, I've discovered that if I run my finger between the gum and the crown, it smells of decay. When I had the crown done, I wondered whether it might be possible that the tooth stump could rot underneath the crown, but the dentist said crowns are too precisely made for it to be possible. I trust his knowledge, but thought I should maybe check online before visiting him again.

Thanks for any help you have! :)

[mammo]

Decay has been known to develop at the base of the tooth under a crown, but not in this short amount of time.  So, I don't think that's a problem, but I can see why you're concerned.  I had decay develop under a crown after 19 years.  All it takes is a little gum recession for the bacteria to get in.

[elk25]

Ok, that's reassuring thanks. What do you think the smell might me?

[mammo]

I actually had the exact same problem, and it worried me because I thought I had decay under my crown and one dentist told me I did and needed to replace it.  I saw 2 other dentists and both said "no" that there was no decay, and the odor just went away.  I know this doesn't help you, but that was several years ago for me and I still don't have the odor or any decay.  I think you can relax on this, but make sure you brush thoroughly but gently.  Take care....

[elk25]

Ok, will do. I think also I will floss well around there to - though not too hard, as it could cause gum recession.

Thanks for your help and reassurance, really appreciate it.

[GoneBatty]

Is it possible that the odor you smell is the adhesive used to seat the crown?  I know the adhesive that was used on my crowns left a lingering odor.  At least I thought it did.

[elk25]

Sorry for the lack of a reply - I thought I'd set it to email me on replies, but apparantly not.

I'm not sure tbh about that, however I now know that I was right to question the crown in the first place, as while flossing (gently, I might add), it just fell off!!

It's a good job I'm on holiday at the moment, as I feel rather self conscious. I shall get onto my dentist right away.

I seem to get all the bad luck when it comes to teeth. Oh well, I have no fillings at least :)