When Do You Need a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns have been used for centuries to restore damaged teeth and improve people’s smiles. These versatile caps have helped countless patients regain both function and confidence in their teeth.

But when might you need a dental crown? Whether you’re dealing with tooth pain, damage, or cosmetic concerns, understanding when a crown is the right solution can help you make informed decisions about your dental health.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is essentially a cap that is placed over a damaged natural tooth. Its purpose is to restore the tooth to its normal shape, size, and function and to improve its appearance. Crowns can be made from several materials, including ceramic, metal, and zirconia, each offering different benefits depending on the specific needs of the patient. Dental crowns offer patients a way to keep their natural teeth while protecting them from future damage.

Reasons You Might Need a Dental Crown

There are several situations in which a dental crown may be necessary to restore your smile. Some of the most common reasons people need a dental crown include:

Large Cavities

When a cavity is too large to be filled with a traditional filling, a crown may be necessary to maintain the tooth’s integrity. In large cavities, a filling could weaken the tooth’s structure, increasing the risk that it would crack or break over time. In cases such as these, a dental crown is necessary to support the tooth’s structure while repairing the cavity.

Root Canal Treatment

After getting a root canal, the inside of the tooth becomes hollow and more fragile. Placing a dental crown on the tooth helps protect it from fractures and restores its strength and functionality. The most common teeth that need a dental crown after root canal treatment are those subject to chewing forces, such as molars and premolars.

Cracked or Damaged Teeth

Teeth that are cracked or have been significantly worn down can benefit from the protection and reinforcement that a crown provides. By covering the entire visible portion of the tooth, a crown can prevent further damage. Vertical cracks that extend down near the tooth pulp often require a dental crown to repair the tooth.

Cosmetic Improvements

Sometimes, dental crowns are used for aesthetic reasons rather than purely restorative ones. Your dentist might recommend a crown if you have a tooth that is severely discolored, misshapen, or otherwise visually unappealing. A crown can provide a consistent, natural look in line with your other teeth.

Dental Implants

When a dental implant is used to replace a missing tooth, a crown is often placed on top to serve as the visible and functional part of the tooth. While the implant itself functions as the tooth root, the crown that attaches to the end supports a natural-looking and fully functional smile, giving patients more security than other tooth replacements like dentures.

Holding a Dental Bridge in Place

Crowns can also be used to anchor dental bridges, which fill the space left by missing teeth. The crowns are placed on the natural teeth adjacent to the gap, holding the bridge securely in place. Bridges are another popular restoration option that allow patients to replace missing teeth without dental implants or dentures.

Types of Dental Crowns

There are several different types of materials that can be used for dental crowns, including:

• Metal. Known for their durability, these crowns are ideal for back molars where the force from chewing is greatest.
• Porcelain fused to metal. These provide a natural tooth color and are often used for front or back teeth due to their balance between durability and aesthetics.
• Ceramic or porcelain crowns. These offer the best natural color match and are suitable for people with metal allergies.
• Zirconia. A newer option that combines durability with aesthetics, offering excellent strength and a natural appearance.

Benefits of Getting a Dental Crown

There’s a reason dental crowns have been used in dentistry for so long—they provide many benefits to patients needing to restore their teeth, including:

• Enhanced appearance. Crowns can significantly improve the cosmetic look of damaged teeth, enhancing your smile and confidence.
• Protection. Dental crowns provide excellent support and protection for weakened teeth, helping to prevent further damage or decay.
• Durability. Dental crowns can last many years with proper care, offering a long-term solution for your smile.
• Improved function. Crowns restore your ability to chew and speak properly, which may be impaired by damaged teeth.
• Prevention of tooth loss. By reinforcing a damaged tooth, crowns can prevent the need for extraction, helping you maintain your natural smile.

How the Dental Crown Procedure Works

A dental crown procedure usually involves a few dental appointments. After a thorough exam, your dentist will let you know if a crown is necessary. Then, they’ll take precise measurements to send out to a lab to custom-make your crown.

Once your crown is ready, your dentist will place it using cement for a secure and permanent restoration. During your appointment, they will make any necessary adjustments to ensure comfort and an ideal fit.

Caring for Your New Dental Crown

You can take care of your dental crown just like you do your natural teeth. Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to remove plaque between your teeth and from around the crown.

It’s also important to be mindful when consuming hard foods, like sticky candies or bones, that have the potential to damage the crown. While dental crowns are very durable, they are not immune to damage.

As always, it’s important to visit your dentist in Asheville regularly for checkups and cleanings to prolong the life of your dental crown and ensure your smile is healthy. With proper care, dental crowns have the potential to last a decade or more.

Make an Appointment for Dental Crowns Today

Contact Saunders DDS today to schedule a consultation for your dental crowns in Asheville. Our friendly staff will answer any questions you have about dental crowns and help you determine if this treatment is right for you. Your perfect smile is just a call or click away—call us at (828) 277-6060 or reach us online!