When Do You Need a Dental Crown? Signs and Symptoms

A dental crown is among the most important aspects of restorative and cosmetic dentistry, used in repairing a broken or decayed tooth. Ultimately, they are geared towards enhancing the health of teeth. We provide high-quality dental crowns designed to match specific dental needs at Dentist On Washington. This post takes a look at some of the main signs and symptoms that could be pointing towards the need for a crown and seeks to arm you with the knowledge of when it is time to seek help from our dental professionals.

Understanding Dental Crowns

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over a tooth and completely covers the tooth to restore its size, shape, and strength, and even improve its appearance. When cemented into place, crowns fully encase the visible portion of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line.

Why are Dental Crowns Used?

Dental crowns can also have multiple purposes, such as being used to attach bridges, protect a weak tooth from breaking, or restore one that is already broken. Others include the holding of a dental bridge, covering and providing support to teeth that have undergone large filling, covering discolored or poorly shaped teeth, and covering a dental implant.

Signs You Might Need a Dental Crown

Extensive Tooth Decay

When tooth decay significantly damages a tooth, a simple filling may not be enough. If the decay has compromised a large portion of the original tooth, a dental crown may be necessary to preserve the tooth’s structure and function.

After a Root Canal

A root canal treatment involves removing the infected or injured pulp of a tooth, which can leave the tooth brittle and susceptible to fracture. A dental crown can protect this tooth, restoring its functionality and preventing further damage.

Cracks or Chips in the Tooth

Teeth may have small chips that don’t justify a crown, but at other times structural damage is quite extensive, and a crown is the only other option. Crowns give the protective cover that saves the damaged tooth from further decay and, hence, the tooth can carry on with its natural form and functionality.

Teeth with Large Fillings

Large fillings may, in time, undermine the remaining structure of the tooth, making it weaker against fractures. Crowns can be used to encase the tooth; they offer support and strength if more filling is present than the actual tooth.

Excessive Wear of Teeth

Teeth that have been excessively worn down, often due to bruxism (teeth grinding) or other physical stresses, may require crowns to restore their original size and protect them from further wear.

Cosmetic Enhancement

For teeth that are severely discolored or poorly shaped, dental crowns can also offer a cosmetic solution, providing a healthy and more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

What to Expect During the Dental Crown Procedure

Initial Consultation

At Dentist On Washington, your journey towards receiving a dental crown begins with a detailed consultation. Our experts will assess your oral health, discuss your concerns, and determine whether a dental crown is the best option for you.

Preparing the Tooth

The process typically involves reshaping the tooth to ensure a proper fit for the crown. This step might include removing a portion of the existing tooth or filling in parts to build it up.

Creating and Fitting Your Crown

The dentist then takes the impressions of your teeth, which are sent to a lab where your crown is to be custom-made. The latter then gets adjusted when the permanent crown has been made and cemented into place.

Caring for Your Dental Crown

Maintaining Dental Hygiene

Proper care can extend the life of your crown. Regular brushing and flossing are essential, as is avoiding habits that could damage the crown, such as chewing ice or biting fingernails.

Regular Dental Check-Ups

Regular visits to Dentists In Washington are crucial. These check-ups allow us to monitor the health of your crowned tooth and surrounding gums and make any necessary adjustments to your dental care routine.

Conclusion

Dental crowns are a versatile solution capable of addressing a range of dental issues from restoring damaged teeth to enhancing the cosmetic appearance of your smile. Do not hesitate to share your problems and questions with our team at Dentist on Washington if you have experienced symptoms such as the ones mentioned above. To learn more about our services, or to make an appointment, visit our website at Dentist On Washington and let us help give you that healthy, beautiful smile with the right dental crown solution designed just for you.