When your tooth gets damaged, it faces a potential snowball effect. Whether chipped, severely decayed or even requiring a root canal, your tooth loses strength and becomes prone to further damage. The further the decline, the more rapidly and severely it progresses. To prevent additional harm and restore the health and functionality of your tooth, your dentist may recommend a dental crown. This effective tooth restoration solution enhances the appearance of your smile and ensures your tooth’s long-term stability.
What is a dental crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth. It’s custom-made from different materials, like composite resin, porcelain or metal alloys, to perfectly match the size, shape, and colour of your surrounding teeth. Crowns basically act like a protective helmet for your tooth, covering the entire visible portion of your tooth and providing exceptional protection and reinforcement.
Do you need a dental crown?
Several factors can determine if a dental crown is the right solution for you. Here are some common reasons why dentists recommend crowns:
Extensive tooth decay: When a cavity is large and compromises a significant portion of the tooth structure, a mere filling might not suffice. A crown offers more substantial coverage, effectively protecting the tooth from further damage and potential fractures.
Cracked or broken teeth: Whether your tooth has sustained a minor chip or a major break, a crown can effectively repair the damage and restore its strength, ensuring proper functionality.
Worn-down teeth: Teeth can naturally wear down over time due to grinding or prolonged use. A crown can rebuild the worn tooth structure, enhancing its functionality and longevity.
Root canal treatment: Following a root canal procedure, the treated tooth often becomes brittle and vulnerable to breakage. A crown provides essential protection, reinforcing the weakened tooth and minimising the risk of future fractures.
Supporting a dental bridge: Dental crowns act as stable anchors for dental bridges, which replace one or more missing teeth by spanning the gap between the remaining teeth.
Protecting a dental implant: Dental implants, designed to replace missing teeth by surgically placing a metal post in the jawbone, are typically capped with a crown. This crown resembles a natural tooth and functions seamlessly, ensuring optimal oral function and helping prevent jawbone recession.
Cosmetic concerns: In addition to functional restoration, crowns can also address cosmetic issues such as misshapen or discoloured teeth, enhancing the overall appearance of your smile.
Protecting a dental implant: Dental implants, designed to replace missing teeth by surgically placing a metal post in the jawbone, are typically capped with a crown. This crown resembles a natural tooth and functions seamlessly, ensuring optimal oral function and helping prevent jawbone recession.
Signs you shouldn’t ignore
Neglecting potential issues requiring a crown can result in more serious complications. Keep an eye out for these warning signs that indicate it’s time to see your dentist:
Pain or sensitivity: Discomfort in your tooth may signify an underlying problem that could be resolved with a crown.
Difficulty chewing: A damaged tooth can disrupt your bite and cause eating discomfort. A crown can restore proper chewing function, alleviating this issue.
Loose fillings: If you notice a loose or failing filling, it could indicate the need for a more substantial restoration like a crown to reinforce the tooth’s structure and prevent further damage.
How does it work?
The process of getting a dental crown typically involves two appointments.
During your initial visit, your dentist will thoroughly examine the affected tooth, often using X-rays to assess its condition. Any decayed or damaged structure will be removed as necessary.
When creating your custom-fit crown, your dentist may use traditional putty impression techniques or a modern intraoral scanner for high-definition imaging. Skilled dental ceramists then fabricate the crown in a dental laboratory. While all of this is happening, your dentist will install a temporary crown to protect the tooth.
At your follow-up appointment, the permanent crown is carefully positioned over the prepared tooth and firmly cemented in place. Your dentist ensures the crown fits well and aligns with your bite for optimal functionality and comfort.
Considerations when choosing dental crowns
Cost: Dental crowns can be expensive, especially if you require multiple crowns or if you choose more advanced crown options. Discussing cost estimates with your dentist beforehand is recommended. If you have a private health fund with a dental extras plan with higher coverage, it may cover a portion of the cost. Check with your insurance provider for accurate details regarding coverage.
Sensitivity: Some individuals may experience temporary sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures after getting a dental crown. While this sensitivity may initially be bothersome, rest assured that it typically resolves on its own, leading to increased comfort in the long run.
Risk of damage: While crowns are durable, they are not indestructible. They can chip, crack, or become loose, especially with habits like teeth grinding or chewing on hard or sticky food. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene habits and avoiding hard foods can help minimise the risk of damage. You may also discuss the possibility of a night guard with your dentist to protect your crown from grinding.
Tooth decay: While the crown itself is resistant to decay, the underlying tooth remains susceptible to cavities if proper oral hygiene is not maintained. Plaque and bacteria can accumulate along the margins of the crown, leading to decay and potential complications. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are crucial to prevent decay around the crown.
Tooth preparation: To accommodate the crown, your dentist needs to remove enough enamel to allow the crown to fit securely. In some cases, this may lead to sensitivity or even damage to the nerve, requiring additional dental work.
Irreversibility: The process of preparing a tooth for a crown is irreversible, as it involves the removal of some natural tooth structure. However, if your dentist identifies damage or loosening of a crown, they can typically repair or replace it without removing additional tooth material.
Gum irritation: Poorly fitting crowns or those with rough edges can irritate the gums, leading to inflammation or even gum disease if left untreated. Modern dental techniques prioritise a smooth and precise crown fit to minimise gum irritation.
Allergic reactions: In rare cases, some individuals may be allergic to the materials used in dental crowns, particularly if they contain metals like nickel. If you have any known metal allergies, inform your dentist before getting a crown. They can discuss suitable materials, like biocompatible ceramics, that are less likely to cause allergic reactions.
Save your tooth before it’s too late
Do you have a badly damaged or decayed tooth? Don’t wait too long—it’s time to visit your dentist! During your appointment, they’ll carefully examine your condition and determine whether a dental crown could be the ideal solution to restore your tooth’s health and functionality. Addressing dental issues as soon as possible, such as the need for a crown, can help prevent more serious (and costly) problems in the future.
Get in touch today to enjoy peace of mind. Halt any further decline in your dental condition and take the right step to restore your wellbeing. Be the hero—not the villain—in your oral health story!
