Reasons Why You May Need a Dental Crown

Hearing the news that you need a dental crown doesn’t mean that you are losing a tooth. A crown actually serves as a shield that protects your natural tooth. Crowns are made from durable materials such as porcelain and metal. Today’s crowns can even be made to match the color of your other teeth. We recommend crowns to treat common problems that pose a risk for your smile.

Reasons Why You Need a Dental Crown

#1 Reinforce a Tooth With a Large Filling

At times, a cavity might expand enough to require us to drill out more tooth structure than we’d like. Recurrent decay can also cause more of your tooth to be lost. Once this happens, there is a chance that your tooth could break. A dental crown is stronger than a filling. Covering the weakened tooth with a crown helps you to eat without fear of breakage. 

#2 Reshape a Severely Worn Down or Chipped Tooth

Tooth grinding can wear down teeth to where they are no longer functional. Ground down teeth can impact your bite. You might not be able to chew properly if your teeth are too short to meet together. Teeth with large chips can also create a similar problem. Crowns are often used to add height to teeth. They may also improve your appearance if the worn-down teeth are in your smile zone.

#3 Add Strength After a Root Canal Treatment

Root canals are effective in eliminating serious decay and infections. They are often the last option a Tempe dentist does to save a dying tooth. While keeping your tooth is best, a root canal also removes a large part of the enamel, pulp, and dentin. This leaves your tooth weakened much as a large filling does. You’ll typically make arrangements for a crown when you plan your root canal treatment.

#4 Stop Pain From Cracks and Fractures

A cracked tooth might not even be visible without an x-ray, but it can be quite painful. Cracks and fractures are often hard to treat with a filling alone. Covering the tooth with a crown prevents the nerve from being exposed to temperature changes. A crown also relieves pressure on the tooth when you chew to prevent further irritation to the nerve.

#5 Anchor a Bridge In Place

Crowns are sometimes used during tooth replacements. A bridge consists of a false tooth that sits between two crowns. The crowns are placed on top of the teeth that are adjacent to the gap in your mouth. This is an option you might prefer if you have a missing tooth combined with teeth that need treatment on the sides. A bridge looks and feels natural and can last as long as a single crown.

#6 Create a More Uniform Smile

Some people are born with teeth that are too small or completely different sizes. You might also have severe staining on your teeth or major chips on several in the smile zone. Crowns are sometimes placed on the most visible teeth in the front to create a more aesthetic smile. This is especially common when the front teeth are damaged in an accident.

When a dental crown is placed with precision, you can expect it to last for many years. Caring for your new crown is simple. Just brush and floss it gently while paying attention to the gum line. We’ll check the crown during your regular exams to make sure it stays in top condition.