While keeping and maintaining your natural teeth is the preferred option, so much can go wrong these days and require a restorative solution. When it does, a dental crown is a common choice and can be beneficial in so many ways. Yet, how can you know if dental crowns are for you? Are there certain signs or situations where they are the best option available?
What are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns have been available for a long time and are highly beneficial in restoring and protecting a natural tooth. Essentially, a crown is a customized, artificial cap that fits over what remains of your natural tooth with the goal of restoring the function and appearance. The dental crown may be made of porcelain, metal, ceramic, or a combination of materials. They are strong, durable, and can be matched in color to your surrounding teeth.
The dental crown procedure does require a set of steps, starting with the preparation of the tooth, which may involve grinding away the damaged parts. An impression is made and sent to a dental lab for manufacturing your new crown. Meanwhile, your dentist will fit you with a temporary crown for usually two weeks or so until the permanent one is available. You will then return for another appointment, where the permanent crown will be fitted and cemented into place.
How to Know If Dental Crowns Are for You
A dental crown is a viable solution for several dental needs. To know whether or not a dental crown is for you, consider the following situations.
You Have a Fractured or Broken Tooth
Damage to a tooth, such as a fracture or break, can occur suddenly and unexpectedly. You may bite down on a piece of ice, and suddenly you realize you’ve cracked or broken a tooth. It may be extremely obvious or subtle, at least at first.
Treatment will be necessary, and the solution you choose will depend on its severity. Most likely, you will need a dental crown to strengthen and support the damaged tooth and provide ongoing protection. If it is a tiny crack or chip, you may be able to seek other solutions, such as dental bonding or veneers.
A Tooth Suffers Extreme Decay
If your tooth suffers extreme decay, you will need to find a solution that allows you to keep as much of the natural tooth as possible. One way to gauge this need is if the tooth is more than half decayed. If so, a crown is a better option than a filling.
Your Tooth Has Large Fillings Already
When a tooth requires a large filling, it becomes weaker and prone to cracking. Fillings can also come loose and allow food, sugar, and bacteria to slip underneath, causing additional problems.
If your tooth already has a large filling, the remaining tooth structure is weakened and at higher risk of a fracture. A dental crown can protect that tooth from further stress and potential cracks and restore its function.
You’ve Recently Undergone a Root Canal Procedure
During a root canal procedure, the tooth is hallowed out. As a result, it causes it to weaken and be at a higher risk for fracturing. Your back teeth are particularly vulnerable to such fractures as this is where you do the majority of your chewing. Your dentist will most likely recommend a dental crown as a way to protect and restore enough function to the tooth following this type of procedure.
You Need a Dental Bridge or Partial Dentures
If you are already missing one or more teeth, you may be considering getting a dental bridge or partial dentures to bridge the gap. However, your natural teeth on either side of the appliance may not be strong enough to serve as a reliable anchor. If so, your dentist will recommend they be fitted with a crown to provide stronger support.
A Tooth is Showing Excessive Wear
Excessive wearing of a tooth can be problematic. There are a few reasons that can cause this to occur, including tooth enamel erosion, acid reflux disease, or a high-acidic diet. If you grind your teeth at night as you sleep, a condition known as bruxism, you can also wear down teeth. Excessive wear can alter your bite and also lead to other dental issues, so a crown may be your best option to prevent future problems.
The Appearance of a Tooth is Interfering with Your Smile
Dental crowns can serve as a cosmetic option to help improve your smile by changing the color or shape of your tooth. A crown can also eliminate any noticeable gaps between teeth and improve alignment, making your smile more even while providing a higher level of protection.
If you experience any of these conditions or situations, then a dental crown may be the right choice for you. Schedule an appointment with your dentist to get a better diagnosis and to discuss whether a crown will be beneficial for your circumstances.
Discover More About the Benefits of Dental Crowns by Contacting Park Street Dental Today
Understanding your dental needs is essential to your oral health today. Our team here at Park Street Dental will take the time to provide you will all the information you need, make recommendations, and listen to any concerns you may have. Contact our office today to discover how dental crowns and other restorative and cosmetic dentistry options can benefit you.