Why You Might Need a Dental Crown

Dental health is essential for a bright smile and overall well-being. Sometimes, our teeth need extra help to stay strong. That’s where dental crowns come in. A dental crown can protect a tooth and keep it looking nice. Understanding why you might need a dental crown can help you make informed decisions about your dental care.

There are many reasons why you might need a dental crown. Maybe your tooth is cracked, or it has a large filling. Sometimes, a crown is required to protect the tooth after a root canal. Knowing the reasons and the process of getting a crown can make the experience less scary. This article will explore what dental crowns are, why you might need one, what to expect during the procedure, and how to take care of your crown.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a cap that covers a damaged or weak tooth. It looks like a natural tooth and helps restore its shape, size, and strength. Crowns can be made from porcelain, metal, or both. Porcelain crowns look like natural teeth, while metal crowns are solid.

A crown can save a tooth when it is damaged and can't be fixed with a filling. Think of it as a shield that goes over the tooth. The dentist shapes the original tooth and places the crown on top, making it look and work like it should.

Crowns are essential because they help us keep our teeth. They protect weak teeth from breaking and make damaged teeth look good again. Getting a crown is a standard procedure that helps many people maintain their dental health.

Common Reasons for Getting a Dental Crown

Dental crowns are used to fix many problems. Here are some common reasons why you might need a dental crown:

1. Decay or Cavities: Large cavities too big for a filling can weaken the tooth. A crown can cover the cavity and protect the tooth from further damage.

2. Cracked or Broken Teeth: Teeth can crack or break from an injury or by biting something hard. A crown can hold the pieces together and prevent further cracking.

3. Root Canal: A tooth can become fragile after a root canal. A crown is often placed on the tooth to strengthen and protect it from breaking.

4. Large Fillings: Teeth with large fillings can become weak. A crown can cover and support the tooth, reducing the risk of it breaking.

5. Cosmetic Reasons: Crowns are sometimes used to improve the look of teeth. If a tooth is discolored or misshapen, a crown can make it look better.

Getting a dental crown can solve many problems and keep your teeth healthy and strong. If you have any of these issues, your dentist might suggest a crown to protect your tooth and improve your smile.

The Dental Crown Procedure: What to Expect

Getting a dental crown might sound complicated, but it’s straightforward. Here’s what to expect when you need a crown:

First, the dentist will examine your tooth and take X-rays to check its health. If the tooth has decay or needs a root canal, those issues are sorted out first. Once the tooth is ready, the dentist will numb the area around it to ensure you don’t feel any pain during the procedure.

Next, the dentist will shape your tooth to fit the crown. This involves trimming the tooth down to make room for the crown. If a lot of the tooth is missing due to damage or decay, the dentist might use filling material to build it up so the crown can fit properly.

After shaping the tooth, the dentist will take an impression of it. This impression is sent to a lab where they make your custom crown. While you wait for the permanent crown, which usually takes a couple of weeks, you’ll get a temporary crown to protect your tooth.

When your permanent crown is ready, you’ll return to the dentist. They’ll remove the temporary crown and place the permanent one on your tooth. The dentist will check the fit and ensure it matches your bite perfectly before cementing it.

How to Care for Your Dental Crown

Taking care of your dental crown is essential to ensure it lasts long. Here are some simple tips to help you care for your crown:

1. Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice and floss daily. While your crown itself can’t get cavities, the tooth underneath can still be at risk of decay, so keeping your mouth clean is very important.

2. Avoid Hard Foods: Be careful when eating nuts, ice, or hard candies. They can crack or damage your crown, just like your natural teeth.

3. Regular Dental Visits: Continue with regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist will check your crown to ensure it’s in good shape and catch any problems early.

4. Watch for Issues: If you notice any pain, a change in the fit of the crown, or a feeling of looseness, contact your dentist right away. These could be signs that your crown needs attention.

5. Avoid Grinding Your Teeth: If you grind or clench your teeth at night, talk to your dentist about getting a mouthguard. Grinding can wear down crowns and natural teeth.

Following these tips can help ensure your crown stays strong and lasts many years.

Conclusion


A dental crown is valuable for anyone with a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth. It provides protection, restores function, and improves the appearance of your smile. Understanding what a dental crown is, why you might need one, the procedure involved, and how to care for it can make the experience less daunting and more manageable.

Remember, good oral hygiene and regular visits to your dentist will keep your crown and the rest of your teeth in great shape. It's always better to address dental issues sooner rather than later, ensuring you maintain a healthy smile.

If you need dental crowns in Dallas, don’t hesitate to reach out. Schedule an appointment with Lakewood Dental Studio today, and let’s work together to keep your smile healthy and bright!