The In’s and Out’s of Dental Crowns

The in’s and out’s of dental crowns may prove tricky without the proper information.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a type of dental restoration which completely caps or encircles a tooth or dental implant. Dental crowns are needed when a large cavity threatens the ongoing health of a tooth and are bonded to the tooth using dental cement. Dental crowns are used to improve the strength or appearance of teeth. The procedure proves inarguably beneficial to dental health.

Why do I need a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is an upper tooth-shaped cap that covers the tooth permanently to protect the natural tooth from any damage or restore its shape, strength, size, and even improve appearance. Fitting dental crowns have been evolving into a near painless procedure that serves to protect the tooth for ages to come. Previously, damaged teeth were removed, but dental crowns allow patients to keep their damaged teeth for as long as desired underneath the dental crowns.

When Should I Get a Dental Crown?

In many cases, this treatment option proves preferable if there is a great deal of decay in your tooth – more than can adequately be repaired with a simple filling.  When the area of decline is too high, a filling will not provide adequate strength for the tooth to function correctly. In this case, it is preferable for your dentist to remove the decayed portion of the tooth completely and to cover the existing tooth with a crown to provide the strength, functionality and aesthetic benefits of a natural tooth.

In addition to extensive decay, other types of damage can also warrant this type of procedure.  If your tooth is cracked or chipped in such a way that some bonding can’t repair, a dental crown can cover the damage and provide you with a robust, functional and damage-free tooth.

Improving the appearance of teeth is another common reason why people opt for dental crowns.  For example, if your teeth are discolored and are cannot be enhanced by a whitening procedure, they need reshaping or otherwise improved, then having the tooth covered with a crown can be one of the best ways to increase the tooth’s appearance.

There are many reasons why dentists recommend dental crown procedures and if you are unsure whether this procedure is right for you, discuss the option with your dentist.