A dental crown is one of the most common restorative procedures in modern dentistry. Despite how routine it has become, many people don’t fully understand when or why a crown is necessary. A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. There are a variety of dental situations that may call for a crown, and recognizing these times can help you take proactive steps to maintain your oral health.
After a Root Canal
One of the most common times a dentist may recommend a crown is after a root canal treatment. During a root canal, infected pulp is removed from the inside of a tooth, leaving the structure more brittle and prone to breaking. A crown provides a protective shell that could restore the tooth’s strength and functionality. Without a crown, a root-canaled tooth is at much greater risk of cracking or deteriorating over time.
When a Tooth is Severely Decayed
Tooth decay can often be treated with fillings when caught early, but when a cavity becomes too large, a filling may no longer provide sufficient support. In these cases, a dental crown may be the best option to restore the tooth and prevent further damage. Crowns can cover and protect a decayed tooth, especially if much of the natural structure has been lost to decay or previous dental work.
To Repair a Chipped or Broken Tooth
A chipped or broken tooth isn’t just a cosmetic issue. It can compromise the integrity of the entire tooth structure. A crown could help hold the pieces together and shield the tooth from further damage. This is especially true for teeth that have fractured down the middle or have a piece missing due to trauma. The crown acts as a stabilizer, often allowing you to bite and chew comfortably without risking further injury to the tooth.
Following Tooth Wear from Grinding
Bruxism, or chronic teeth grinding, can gradually wear down the enamel and cause severe flattening or chipping of the teeth. Over time, this can affect your bite and lead to jaw pain, sensitivity, and difficulty eating. If your teeth have been significantly worn due to grinding, your dentist may recommend crowns to rebuild their original shape and restore proper alignment. Crowns in this context aren’t just for aesthetics. They’re crucial for protecting your remaining natural tooth structure.
To Support a Dental Bridge
Crowns are often used in conjunction with other restorative procedures, such as dental bridges. A bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring an artificial tooth to the adjacent teeth. In this setup, the adjacent teeth are fitted with crowns that support the bridge. These crowns need to be strong enough to handle the stress of biting and chewing while also ensuring the artificial tooth remains firmly in place.
For Cosmetic Improvement
While crowns are typically used for restorative reasons, they could also serve a cosmetic function. Teeth that are discolored, misshapen, or have surface irregularities may benefit from crowns to improve their appearance. Unlike veneers, which only cover the front of a tooth, crowns encase the entire tooth, making them a more comprehensive solution for teeth that need both aesthetic and structural enhancement.
Dental Crown Treatment in Newport News, VA
A First Light Dental of Coastal Virginia, we are committed to your oral health. Dental decay and damage can weaken your bite and affect your smile. We offer a range of restorative treatment options that could help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and see if dental crowns are right for you.