When Do You Need a Dental Crown?
Dental crowns can help restore your smile if you have missing or damaged teeth. Crowns are made from a variety of materials, such as all porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, or full gold.
A dental crown or “cap” is a type of tooth-shaped covering set over a tooth to restore its size, shape, appearance, and strength. When a crown is cemented into place, it fully encases the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line.
While dental crowns can be useful, they are not right for all situations. Learn more about dental crowns and why you might need one.
When Do You Need a Crown?
A dental crown can have several different functions depending on the patient’s needs. Dental crowns are often used as a cosmetic solution for patients that want to conceal their misshapen or discolored teeth. They can also function as a preventive solution to prevent a weakened tooth from breaking. Finally, a dental crown can act as a finishing touch to secure a dental bridge or cover a dental implant.
Here’s a look at some common situations in which your dentist may recommend a dental crown at your appointment:
1. Restore a Badly Decayed Tooth
One of the most common reasons that dentists recommend dental crowns is to restore badly decayed teeth. Your Melbourne FL dentist will generally repair a decayed tooth with a filling. However, badly decayed teeth may be weak and require a dental crown. The dental crown will appear just like your real tooth for a natural look.
2. Replace a Large Filling
If your large filling is worn out or damaged, your Melbourne Florida dentist may place a crown over it to provide better protection and prevent further problems from developing, such as cracks.
3. Protect a Tooth After a Root Canal
Dental crowns are often placed on weakened teeth after root canal treatment. This process involves opening a hole in the tooth and extracting any decayed material from inside. The tooth is then filled and covered with a crown for protection.
4. Repair a Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Tooth
A crown is a great option if you have a chipped, cracked, or broken tooth caused by wear and tear, an accident, or an oral injury. Although minor chips can often be repaired with dental bonding or other cosmetic treatment, major tooth damage typically requires a dental crown.
5. Cover Up a Tooth for Cosmetic Reasons
In some cases, a dentist will recommend a crown for cosmetic reasons. For example, if a patient is unhappy with the shape or color of a tooth, a dental crown can be a viable option, alongside other treatments like dental bonding and veneers. Covering a tooth with a crown can help you achieve a more attractive smile.
When Do You Need a Crown vs Filling?
If you’re experiencing a dental problem, it can sometimes be hard to determine what type of treatment is needed. Depending on the situation, your dentist may recommend a dental crown or filling.
A crown is a prosthetic tooth that is placed on top of an existing tooth. Crowns are most often used on teeth that have extensive damage; however, for a crown to work properly there needs to be at least ¼ of the remaining tooth structure.
Fillings are made of dental materials like silver, composite resin, and porcelain. The filling material is inserted into the hole in your tooth after your dentist has removed the decay.
A filling is best suited for a tooth that has minimal damage. When a tooth is properly filled, it can last many years and help prevent decay from continuing to eat away at your tooth.
Contact Artistic Touch Dentistry
Single crowns are the most common restorative procedure, according to the American College of Prosthodontists, with approximately 23 million implant-support crowns made annually. For more information about dental crowns or to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced dental professionals, contact Artistic Touch Dentistry at (321) 724-1400.