When Is a Dental Crown Recommended?

A dental crown is like a cap, covering the entire visible portion of the tooth. The crown is custom-made in a dental lab for the patient and fits in with the remaining teeth. The major functions are to protect a damaged tooth and prevent infection in a severely decayed tooth, ultimately improving the tooth’s function and appearance.

The need for a dental crown

Dental crowns are common dental restorations, yet patients often wonder whether they are really necessary. A well-placed crown can extend the lifespan of the natural teeth by preventing further damage. It can also be used for cosmetic reasons. The following are instances where the dentist might recommend a dental crown:

• After a root canal procedure: performing a root canal on a tooth makes it hollow, which renders the tooth structure weak and at risk of damage. The dentist will recommend placing a dental crown over the tooth to make it strong and able to handle stress
• Severe decay or filling change: When decay gets too large and affects more than half of the tooth’s structure, a dental crown needs to be placed over it to strengthen it. Also, it is better to use a dental crown for a tooth with a large dental filling, especially if it starts showing signs of fracture or stress, or if most of the natural tooth structure is lost
• Enhanced appearance: The dental crown can also make a discolored or mishappen tooth appear cosmetically appealing. It can also work as a quick straightening treatment when there are large gaps between the teeth. Dental crowns offer a conservative yet effective option to improve the smile
• Severe wear and tear: Certain factors can contribute to significant wear and tear of the teeth. The deterioration often requires dental crown placement. This is often the case for people with chronic teeth grinding or clenching habits. Acid erosion of the enamel can also result from acidic diets and gastrointestinal reflux. The erosion wears down the enamel, causing tooth pain and sensitivity
• Although crowns are often used for restorative and cosmetic purposes, sometimes, the dentist may recommend getting them as a preventive measure for a tooth that is weak or at a high risk of damage

The dental crown procedure

The dental crown is produced using impressions of the patient’s tooth. The dentist will administer a local anesthetic before proceeding to prepare the tooth. This involves building the tooth structure with dental filling before filing it down to make room for the dental crown. After taking the tooth’s impressions, they will use a shade guide to determine the best color to ensure the crown blends in with the rest of the teeth. The shade and impressions will be sent to the dental lab making the crowns.

Patients will get a temporary crown pending the production of the permanent crown. Before placing the final crown, the dentist will check the fit. The crown is eventually bonded to the tooth with dental cement or glue.

Considering getting a dental crown?

If you have any questions about dental crowns or think you might benefit from getting one, contact our dental office today to schedule a consultation appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://www.mysaratogadentist.com or call My Saratoga Dentist PLLC at (518) 675-3094 for an appointment in our Saratoga Springs office.

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