How Do You Know if You Need a Crown?
Do you have a damaged tooth? A dental crown might be what you need to restore your mouth. While it’s only one of many restorative dentist procedures, it’s a great option for all kinds of dental issues!
Here is how to know if you need a dental crown.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is an artificial cap that replaces most or all of a natural tooth. It attaches to an abutment that is anchored to either a dental implant or your natural tooth.
They are beneficial because they can give you full function of your mouth and improve the aesthetics of your smile.
7 Reasons You Might Need a Crown
There are several reasons you may need a crown — whether you’re missing a tooth, are suffering from tooth decay, or want to replace a broken tooth, dental crowns are a great option.
- Missing Tooth
- Root Canal Treatment
- Severe Tooth Decay
- Replace a Broken Tooth
- Replace Weakened Enamel
- Support a Dental Bridge
- Cover a Dental Implant
There are several procedures available when it comes to replacing a missing tooth, but almost all of them include a dental crown.
For example, if you get a dental implant to replace a missing tooth, a crown will be placed on top of the implant.
A root canal procedure requires drilling your tooth and removing nerves, blood vessels, and soft tissue within it. Sometimes, it weakens the tooth enough to warrant a replacement in the form of a crown.
To fix a decaying tooth, the deteriorating part must be removed first. Afterwards, it needs to be replaced. If enough of it needs to be removed, a crown can be used to replace the damaged portion of your tooth.
Similar to tooth decay, if enough of your tooth is broken, a dental crown is a great way to repair the damage. You don’t want to deal with a jagged, broken, or uneven surface of your tooth.
Instead of worrying about the portion of your broken tooth, you can get a dental crown to replace it.
Weakened enamel can contribute to brittle teeth and sensitivity. This naturally occurs over time, but can be worsened by highly acidic diets and grinding your teeth.
If your tooth enamel becomes too weak, a dental crown can help strengthen your teeth.
Some types of dental bridges require crowns. They go over the teeth around the gap that’s created by the missing tooth.
Crowns and dental implants go hand-in-hand: dental crowns attach to implants to restore your mouth’s function.
Types of Dental Crowns
There are many different materials dental crowns can be made out of:
- Gold – Gold crowns are typically used for back teeth due to their durability and color. While they aren’t as noticeable in the back of your mouth, they aren’t exactly inconspicuous.
- Stainless Steel – Similar to gold crowns, stainless steel crowns are also usually used for back teeth.
- Composite – Composite crowns are the same color as your teeth. They are generally reserved for front teeth because they aren’t as strong as metal, ceramic, or porcelain.
- Ceramic – Ceramic crowns are a popular choice because they match the color of your teeth and are durable, but not as durable as their metal counterparts.
- Porcelain – Like ceramic crowns, porcelain crowns are durable and can closely match the color of your teeth.
- Porcelain Fused to Metal – Porcelain fused to metal implants are the best of both worlds. They can match the color of teeth and they are stronger than only ceramic or porcelain.
Get Dental Crowns in Point Pleasant, NJ
If you need a dental crown, come to Coastal Dental. Dr. Zicchino can repair your tooth with whatever material is best for you. Schedule an appointment online or give us a call to begin your journey to a beautiful smile!
About the Author
Dr. Joseph Zicchino provides a wide array of cosmetic dentistry services, including Invisalign® Clear Aligners, at his practice in Point Pleasant, NJ. He earned his dental degree from NYU Dental School and established Coastal Dental Group in 2004. For more information call (732) 714-1030 or to schedule an appointment!