Dental crowns are among the most common restorative treatments in modern dentistry. Acting as a protective cap, a crown fully encases a damaged or compromised tooth. It aims to restore the tooth’s strength, function, and appearance. Dentists often recommend dental crowns to help preserve the natural structure of your tooth or complete additional treatments. Understanding when you may need a crown can help you make an informed decision about your oral health.
When a Tooth Is Severely Decayed
Tooth decay that extends beyond the capacity of a traditional filling often calls for a dental crown. Fillings work well for small to moderate cavities, but when decay has weakened a large portion of the tooth’s structure, a crown offers a more durable and protective solution. Placing a crown in such cases helps prevent further damage and eliminates the risk of the tooth fracturing under normal chewing forces.
Following a Root Canal Treatment
Root canal therapy is a highly effective procedure to save an infected or inflamed tooth. However, once the inner pulp of a tooth is removed, the tooth can become brittle and prone to breaking. To reinforce the treated tooth, dentists almost always recommend a crown, especially for back teeth that endure greater biting pressure. The crown provides long-term protection and restores full functionality to the tooth, making it a crucial step in the root canal recovery process.
For Chipped or Broken Teeth
Teeth that have suffered trauma, whether from an accident, teeth grinding, or biting into something hard, may become chipped fractured. Depending on the severity of the break, a crown may be used to hold the tooth together and prevent further damage. Crowns are especially important for vertical or cusp fractures where the integrity of the tooth is compromised. Without a crown, the tooth may deteriorate further, eventually requiring extraction.
To Replace a Large Filling
Sometimes, older fillings start to break down, leak, or weaken the surrounding tooth structure. When a filling covers more than half of a tooth, there’s a higher risk of the tooth breaking. In these cases, a crown is often recommended as a more permanent and stable restoration. It provides greater support than a filling and helps maintain the tooth’s structural integrity.
For Cosmetic Improvements
While crowns are typically used for restorative purposes, they could also play a significant role in cosmetic dentistry. If a tooth is misshapen, severely discolored, or poorly aligned, a crown might help improve its appearance. Porcelain crowns, in particular, are designed to closely mimic the look of natural teeth, making them a preferred option for patients seeking both function and aesthetics.
To Anchor a Dental Bridge
Crowns are also used in conjunction with dental bridges to replace missing teeth. In a traditional bridge, the teeth on either side of the gap, called abutment teeth, are capped with crowns that support the artificial tooth (pontic) in the middle. This method provides stability and helps maintain the alignment of the surrounding teeth.
After Dental Implant Placement
When a patient receives a dental implant to replace a missing tooth, the final step is to place a crown over the implant. This crown acts as the visible, functional part of the tooth and is carefully crafted to match the rest of the patient’s smile. Crowns on implants often restore chewing function and aesthetics, making them an integral part of implant restoration.
Dental Crowns in Livonia, MI
At Livonia Dental, your oral health is our top priority. We always strive to maintain your natural tooth structure whenever possible. If you suffer from extensive decay or damage, dental crowns could help restore your bite and protect your smile. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more.