I had a crown put in during the summer of 2007. About three months ago, I noticed the tooth turning a dark color at the top, and after visiting a different dentist today, was told the crown needs to be replaced ASAP. Is it normal for a crown to have to be replaced that quickly? My insurance company won't cover the replacement because there is a five year waiting period for replacement. Is it possible that my crown has a "warranty"?

What was the reason the dentist gave you that the crown needs to be replaced?

Is it near the gumline that you notice the dark colour?

Are you having any sensitivity?

Has this tooth had a root canal?

No sensitivity. Just the dark discoloring near the gumline. The dentist says he wants to replace it because he doesn't know how much decay is underneath the crown.

I'd suggest you go back to the dentist who originally did the crown. If the tooth has not had a root canal and there is decay present you should feel some sweet or cold sensitivity.

Where in your mouth is the crown? The reasons for having a crown placed are usually because the tooth has been heavily restored or the tooth has had a root canal and the crown is needed to add strength to the tooth.

Is the dark colour on the tooth or is it the margin of the crown that is dark near the gumline?

If there is a problem with the tooth, the dentist who placed the crown should fix it at a reduced fee. You may have to cover the lab fee only but I'd hope the dentist would not charge you his fee.