If your dentist has mentioned a dental crown, you may be wondering why a filling is not enough or whether the tooth really needs additional protection.
A dental crown is a restoration that covers the visible portion of an existing tooth. It can be used to restore a tooth’s shape and function and protect tooth structure that has become weakened or damaged.
Crowns are not appropriate for every damaged tooth. Whether one is recommended depends on factors such as how much healthy tooth structure remains, the location of the damage, your bite and the overall condition of the tooth.
Here are some of the common situations in which your dentist may discuss a dental crown with you.
What Exactly Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap placed over a prepared natural tooth.
Unlike a filling, which replaces a specific area of missing or decayed tooth structure, a crown covers much or all of the visible portion of the prepared tooth.
Crowns can be made from different materials, including ceramics such as porcelain or zirconia, metals or combinations of materials. The appropriate option depends on factors including the location of the tooth, function, appearance and individual clinical circumstances.
Centrepoint Dental provides dental crowns and bridges in Tamworth for patients when clinically appropriate.
1. Your Tooth Is Cracked or Broken
A crack or fracture can weaken a tooth and affect its ability to withstand normal biting forces.
Some fractures are obvious, while others can be more difficult to see. You might instead notice symptoms such as discomfort when chewing or sensitivity.
The appropriate treatment depends on where the crack is located, how far it extends and how much healthy tooth structure remains.
For some damaged teeth, a crown may be recommended to cover and protect the remaining tooth structure. More extensive fractures may require different treatment, so an examination is necessary before deciding on the appropriate approach.
2. Your Tooth Has a Large Filling
Fillings restore tooth structure lost to decay or damage. However, a tooth containing a very large filling may have relatively little natural structure remaining around it.
Over time, the remaining tooth may become more vulnerable to fracture under chewing forces.
Depending on the amount and condition of the remaining tooth structure, your dentist may recommend a crown rather than repeatedly replacing or enlarging a filling.
This does not mean every large filling needs a crown. The decision depends on the individual tooth and its condition.
3. Your Tooth Has Significant Decay
Small or moderate areas of tooth decay can often be managed with a filling when there is enough healthy tooth structure remaining.
When decay is extensive, however, a conventional filling may not provide sufficient support for the remaining tooth.
After the decay has been removed and the tooth assessed, a crown may sometimes be considered to restore its shape and function.
Your dentist will need to determine whether the tooth is suitable for restoration and whether other treatment is required first.
4. You Have Had Root Canal Treatment
A tooth that has undergone root canal treatment may sometimes require a crown afterwards.
During root canal treatment, infected or inflamed tissue inside the tooth is removed and the internal space is cleaned, shaped and filled.
Whether a crown is required afterwards depends on factors including which tooth has been treated and how much healthy tooth structure remains.
Back teeth experience substantial chewing forces and may require additional protection following root canal treatment. Your dentist can assess whether a crown or another restoration is appropriate for the individual tooth.
5. Your Tooth Has Become Worn or Weakened
Teeth can become worn over time for several reasons.
Grinding or clenching, known as bruxism, can contribute to tooth wear in some people. Acid erosion and other factors may also change the shape and structure of teeth.
When substantial tooth structure has been lost, restorative treatment may be considered to help restore function and protect what remains.
The underlying cause also needs to be considered. For example, placing a restoration without addressing significant ongoing grinding may leave the new dental work exposed to the same forces.
If grinding is contributing to tooth wear, your dentist may also discuss options such as a custom dental splint where clinically appropriate.
Does a Cracked Tooth Always Need a Crown?
No.
“Cracked tooth” can describe several different types and severities of damage.
A minor chip and a deep fracture extending through a tooth are very different clinical situations. Treatment can range from monitoring or a smaller restoration through to a crown, root canal treatment or, in some cases, extraction.
This is why symptoms alone cannot determine whether you need a crown.
If you experience pain when biting, new sensitivity or notice that part of a tooth has broken away, arrange an assessment so the extent of the damage can be determined.
Dental Crown vs Filling: What’s the Difference?
Both fillings and crowns are used to restore teeth, but they do so differently.
A filling replaces a specific portion of tooth structure that has been lost because of decay or damage.
A crown covers the prepared visible portion of a tooth, providing broader coverage when more extensive restoration is required.
Generally, the amount and quality of healthy tooth structure remaining are among the factors a dentist considers when deciding which approach is appropriate.
Neither option is automatically “better”. The suitable restoration depends on the condition of the individual tooth.
What Happens When You Get a Dental Crown?
The process can vary depending on the type of crown and the technology used by the dental practice.
Generally, the tooth is first assessed and prepared so the crown can fit over it appropriately. Local anaesthetic may be used during preparation.
An impression or digital scan is then taken so a crown can be designed to fit the prepared tooth and your bite.
Some crowns can be manufactured and placed on the same day, while other cases may require a temporary restoration followed by a later appointment for placement of the final crown.
Before the final crown is fitted, your dentist will check factors such as its fit and how it meets the opposing teeth when you bite.
How Long Does a Dental Crown Last?
There is no guaranteed lifespan for a dental crown.
Crowns can function for many years, but longevity varies according to the individual tooth, crown material, bite, oral hygiene and habits such as grinding.
It is also important to remember that the tooth beneath the crown can still develop decay.
Brushing with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between your teeth and attending dental examinations therefore remain important after a crown has been fitted.
Are There Alternatives to a Dental Crown?
Depending on the condition of the tooth, alternatives may include a filling or another type of indirect restoration.
In more extensively damaged teeth, treatment options may be different again.
The important question is not simply whether a crown is available, but which option is appropriate for preserving function and managing the condition of the individual tooth.
Centrepoint Dental also provides restorative dentistry in Tamworth, allowing different restorative options to be considered according to the patient’s clinical circumstances.
How Do You Know Whether You Need a Crown?
You cannot reliably determine whether you need a dental crown from symptoms alone.
Pain, sensitivity, a cracked tooth or a large filling can indicate that a tooth needs assessment, but they do not automatically mean that a crown is required.
A dentist needs to examine the tooth, and dental X-rays may sometimes be required to understand the extent of decay, previous restorations or other problems.
The assessment can then determine whether the tooth needs treatment and what restorative options are suitable.
If you have a cracked, damaged or heavily filled tooth, or have been told you may require a crown, you can contact Centrepoint Dental Care in Tamworth to arrange an assessment and discuss your options.
Disclaimer: This article contains general educational information about dental crowns and restorative dentistry and should not be considered personalised dental advice. The appropriate treatment for a damaged or weakened tooth depends on its individual condition and your overall oral health. Speak with a qualified dental professional for an assessment and treatment recommendations specific to you.