What is a crown? When would I need a crown? Will I become royalty? Read on to find out all you need to know about crowns! And sorry, you will not necessarily become royalty if you get a crown but you may FEEL like it!
WHAT is a crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is fixed to a tooth to protect it if it is weak, has many cavities, or is broken. The crown helps decayed, worn-down teeth to regain function, health, and of course, appearance! Dentists also use crowns to cover dental implants and root canal-treated teeth. Crowns are made from a variety of materials, from metal, to porcelain, that last between 5 and 15 years with proper care.
Porcelain crowns are a popular choice because it is strong and can match the color of surrounding teeth. Materials like metal and resin (used for a filling) can also be used.
WHEN would I need a crown?
If a tooth has been filled too many times, then a crown may be in your best interest. The tooth becomes weaker as more fillings replace its natural structure. Eventually, it would not be strong enough to withstand normal biting and chewing. This may cause the tooth to crack or break completely!
Dental crowns are like tooth caps. They completely cover a tooth that has suffered structural impairment due to decay, breakage or fracture.
CROWN vs DENTAL FILLING?
In short, it depends on some factors...
Root canal
If the core of a tooth is infected, the endodontist will clean out the infection (root canal), but the loss of the tooth’s core makes the tooth hollow and weaker. So by having a root canal and placing a dental crown, you save the tooth from extraction!
Size of the cavity
The size of the cavity is one of the factors that decide the choice between a dental filling and a dental crown. When tooth decay goes untreated for long, it gets bigger and deeper. If the cavity is detected on time, a filling is good enough. However, if the decay has affected a significant portion of the tooth, the dentist will suggest a dental crown.
Tooth condition
If a tooth has been filled too many times, then a crown might be in order. The tooth becomes weaker as more fillings replace its natural structure. It would not be strong enough to withstand normal biting and chewing. This may cause the tooth to crack or break completely. Also, a tooth composed of large fillings or several small fillings is vulnerable to pulpitis — an infection of the root of the tooth. The crown protects the tooth from the infection.
Broken or cracked teeth
A crown is customized to look like your beautiful, natural tooth. Crowns are perfect for repairing chipped, cracked, or broken teeth. The crown will protect the tooth from further damage that may expose it to infection. It is impractical to use a dental filling to restore a cracked tooth, regardless of the severity of the damage.
Here at Harte Dental, our skilled clinical team will be able to diagnose and treat your teeth, no matter what the condition! Your dentist, hygienist, and dental assistant will discuss the whole process, from the scan to the placement of the crown over the affected tooth! We perform crown procedures daily and are sure we can help you!