I chipped my front tooth as a kid. will i ever need to replace this? when i was about 12 years old, i chipped my front tooth. the dentist put some sort of "cap" on it. i'm now in my mid-twenties and i can start to see where the "cap" part is. should this

This : This question is best answered by a physical dental exam with radiographs, since it is impossible to determine if your crown needs replacement over the internet. In addition, dental restorations (fillings, crowns, dentures) should not be expected to last a lifetime. Although some last longer than others due to many different factors, expect that it will have to be replaced at some point.

It : It seems like you have gotten your "life" out of the crown you had when you were 12. If it is a crown or cap then you should have it replaced with something new. The technology in materials and shade matching should give you a huge improvement over what you have. Obviously, hard to tell with out actually seeing the case . If it was a direct cosmetic repair of the chip then you can replace the old material in a less invasive manner by using a newer generation bonded composite that should also help.

Most : Most "caps" or similar restorations placed at such a young age require replacement as the gums and facial structures mature. It may very well be time to have it replaced but it is certainly time to have it checked. Your description of what you are seeing can represent anything from a cosmetic issue to a true need to have treatment to prevent further problems with your tooth. The best advice is to have it professionally evaluated and if appearance is of concern choose a dentist who's focus is on cosmetic dentistry..

Only : Only if it bothers you when you smile and the discoloration is noticeable.If you do decide to change the restoration ask the dentist on various alternatives.

At : At some point, the crown (or "cap") will need to be replaced, as nothing in dentistry lasts a lifetime. However, some reasons for replacement are simply cosmetic and not a failure in the material. What you are likely seeing is natural recession of the tissues as the bone and gums around the tooth have matured. This is likely normal and not a function of neglect on your part or a problem with the crown. If this crown has a metal substructure (porcelain fused to metal; pfm) then you may be seeing the metal core. Newer non metal crowns do not display this and typically last longer esthetically.

As : As the rock group "kansas" said, "nothing lasts forever but the earth and sky." your mouth has changed dramatically since you were twelve. The 'cap' has withstood hundreds of thousands of chewing cycles and thermal stress (that ice cream and coffee). It is almost certain that this will have to be replaced, and maybe several times.

My : My dear friend, first of all you need to be evaluated by a cosmetic dentist, who understand and knows the different options you may have, including and not limited to a pressed porcelain crown or zirconia based porcelain crown, or simply a porcelain veneer. Dental cosmetology is advancing at a very rapid pace, a true professional will guide you with honesty to a correct and long lasting solution. Good luck ;-) dr.Jj.Edderai.