How Do I Know If I Need a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns serve numerous purposes, including repairing damaged teeth, strengthening weak teeth, replacing missing teeth, and making cosmetic modifications. At Smiles Tempe Family Dentistry, we are committed to utilizing the latest technology and techniques to deliver high-quality restorations with incredibly lifelike results.

Dental crowns can be an important treatment for your teeth, restoring strength and helping to protect against further damage. If you’ve been to the dentist lately, there’s a good chance you may have heard that a dental crown could benefit your oral health- but how do you know if it is really necessary? 

In this post, we will discuss what dental crowns are and explore the key signs that suggest a tooth may need one. We’ll also share some information on topics such as the cost of getting fitted with a dental crown and the materials they come in so that you’re better informed when making decisions about your mouth health!

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown or “cap” is a restoration that fully encases the visible portion of a damaged tooth, enhancing its health, strength, and appearance. Crowns are sized and contoured similarly to your natural teeth, allowing for normal chewing function.

Why Would You Need a Dental Crown?

• Deep Decay: If you have a tooth with extensive decay and insufficient structure remaining to support a large filling, you will require a dental crown. Your restoration will support the affected tooth and restore its strength, health, and structural integrity.
• Large Fillings: In some cases, a tooth with a large filling may require fortification. A dental crown may be the best option to protect the affected tooth and prevent fracture or further damage.
• A fractured or cracked tooth: A fractured, cracked, or broken tooth will not heal on its own and may cause severe pain and discomfort. Covering and supporting the affected tooth with a dental crown will relieve your discomfort and restore your healthy, functional smile.
• Root Canal Therapy: A tooth that has undergone root canal therapy will become brittle and prone to fracture. That’s why, in most cases, we recommend placing a crown for protection after undergoing endodontic treatment.
• Replacing Missing Teeth: Dental crowns can replace one or more missing teeth by covering dental implants or supporting dental bridges. They deliver incredibly natural-looking and feeling results, comparable to healthy, natural teeth.
• Cosmetic Enhancement: Dental crowns are aesthetic restorations that are often used to improve a smile’s appearance. They can mask imperfections in terms of a tooth’s color, size, length, shape, or alignment, delivering flawless results.

Dental crowns can be a great way to protect your teeth and make them look their best. However, they are not always necessary. If you are unsure if you need a dental crown, talk to your dentist. They will be able to assess your needs and help you make the best decision for your oral health. Thanks for reading! We hope this article was helpful in answering some of your questions about dental crowns. Is it time for you to schedule a visit with the dentist? We can help! Give us a call today to set up an appointment.