Common Reasons for Getting a Dental Crown
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits snugly over a natural tooth, offering both protection and cosmetic enhancement. Crowns are carefully designed to restore the size, shape, and strength of teeth that are weakened or damaged, providing crucial support when a filling or simple repair isn’t enough.
For example, if a cavity is extensive or a tooth has cracked or worn down, a crown offers the durable coverage needed to prevent further damage. Additionally, crowns can enhance the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth, creating a more even, natural look.
Below, we explore the most common reasons why patients may need a dental crown. From protecting a tooth after a root canal to reinforcing a tooth with a large filling, understanding these situations will help you decide when a dental crown may be ideal for your oral health.
To Support a Tooth With a Large Filling
Why fillings aren’t always ideal
When a tooth has a large cavity, a traditional filling may not provide sufficient support. It can replace a significant part of the tooth's natural structure, leaving it more vulnerable to cracking or breaking over time. Large fillings can weaken the surrounding tooth structure, making it harder to withstand daily chewing pressure.
How a dental crown helps
In these cases, a dental crown offers a stronger, longer-lasting solution by fully covering the tooth and creating a sturdy, protective barrier. A crown restores the tooth’s strength and shape, preventing further issues like cracks or breaks that could require more invasive treatment. With a crown in place, your tooth remains stable and functional for years.
To Fix a Cracked or Weakened Tooth
Over time, teeth can weaken. This phenomenon is linked to different factors, including injury, grinding (bruxism), decay, or the natural aging process. When a tooth becomes weak, it can crack, chip, or wear down, making it difficult to chew without discomfort. A cracked tooth isn’t just a cosmetic issue; it’s a structural problem that can lead to further damage if left untreated.
Common causes of weak teeth
Decay is a primary cause of weakened teeth. When cavities go untreated, they slowly erode the tooth’s structure, making it prone to cracks and breaks. Habits such as teeth clenching or grinding put excess stress on the teeth, leading to chips or fractures over time. Aging also affects teeth, as the enamel naturally wears down, making teeth more vulnerable to damage.
How a dental crown helps
A crown provides complete coverage for a cracked or weakened tooth, restoring its original shape and strength. By sealing the tooth, a crown prevents further damage and reinforces it, allowing it to function normally and withstand daily wear and tear. Crowns offer a durable solution that can help keep your natural teeth intact longer.
To Protect a Restored Tooth After a Root Canal
A root canal is used to treat an infected or severely decayed tooth. During this process, the dentist removes the damaged tissue from inside the tooth, cleans out the infection, and seals the area to prevent future issues. While a root canal can save your natural tooth, it also leaves it more fragile than before.
Why a tooth becomes fragile after a root canal
Once we remove the infected tissue, the tooth no longer has the same internal structure to support it. It becomes more prone to breaking or cracking, especially when exposed to the usual biting and chewing forces. Without proper reinforcement, the tooth could deteriorate over time.
How a dental crown helps
A dental crown is often placed on a tooth following a root canal to protect it from future damage. The crown completely covers the tooth and adds an extra layer of strength and stability. This allows the restored tooth to function normally without the risk of breaking under pressure. Crowns also help seal off the treated area, preventing new bacteria from entering the tooth and protecting your long-term dental health.
To Cover a Discolored or Misshaped Tooth and Improve Your Smile
Common cosmetic imperfections
A tooth may occasionally stand out due to discoloration, irregular shape, or size. These imperfections might occur naturally or be the result of an injury or inadequate oral care. Consequently, your smile may appear uneven, leading to feelings of self-consciousness.
How a dental crown helps
A dental crown is a simple and effective way to cover these imperfections and give you a more uniform and aesthetically pleasing smile. In other words, dental crowns can improve the visual appearance of your teeth, giving you a smile that feels natural and beautiful. Crowns are customized to match the shape, color, and size of your surrounding teeth, making them an ideal solution for cosmetic concerns.
Remember that dental crowns are not veneers that only cover the tooth's front surface. Full coverage is especially beneficial if a tooth is severely discolored or has a unique shape that stands out. Dental crowns are just one of the many cosmetic services available at Grove City Dental.
Advanced Dental Care in Blackfoot
Dental crowns play an important role in keeping teeth healthy and strong. Depending on whether you need to protect a tooth following a root canal, cover up a large filling, or improve the look of a discolored tooth, crowns offer a lasting solution. Each crown is designed to meet your specific needs, improving both the functionality and natural appearance of your teeth.
Consulting with a trusted dentist is an excellent first step if you’re considering a crown or have concerns about your teeth. At Grove City Dental in Blackfoot, Idaho, we’re here to help you understand your options and determine if dental crowns are right for you.
Reach out to our team today to discover more about our services and schedule an appointment.