Common Signs You Need a Dental Crown to Protect and Restore Your Tooth
Your teeth are incredibly strong, but they aren’t invincible. Over time, they can suffer from decay, fractures, or excessive wear, making them vulnerable to further damage. When a tooth becomes weak, a dental crown can serve as a protective shield, restoring both its function and appearance. But how do you know when a crown is necessary?
Dr. Randall E. Wilson, our qualified Swansea, IL dentist, helps patients regain their oral health with custom dental crowns. If you’re in Swansea, Belleville, Fairview Heights or the surrounding areas, contact us by calling (618) 236-0501 to understand the signs that indicate the need for a dental crown can prevent more extensive dental problems.
When a Dental Crown Becomes Necessary
Your Tooth is Cracked or Fractured
A cracked or fractured tooth can range from a minor inconvenience to a serious dental emergency. Cracks often occur due to trauma, chewing on hard foods, or long-term grinding. While small surface cracks might not require immediate treatment, deeper fractures can lead to severe pain and even tooth loss if left untreated.
A dental crown covers the entire tooth, holding it together and preventing the crack from worsening. Without a crown, the tooth could split entirely, requiring more extensive procedures like root canals or even tooth extraction. If you notice pain when chewing or sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, it may be a sign that your tooth is cracked and needs protection.
Your Tooth Has a Large Filling
Dental fillings are a common way to repair cavities, but when they become too large, they can weaken the tooth structure. If you have a large filling that covers a significant portion of your tooth, the remaining natural enamel may not be strong enough to withstand everyday pressure from chewing.
Over time, the tooth can develop cracks around the filling or even break apart. A dental crown provides full coverage, reinforcing the tooth and ensuring long-term stability. If your dentist notices that a filling is putting your tooth at risk, they may recommend a crown as a proactive solution.
You’ve Had a Root Canal
A root canal is a procedure designed to save a tooth that has been infected or severely decayed. While it eliminates pain and preserves the tooth, it also removes the inner pulp, leaving the tooth more brittle. Without the natural pulp inside, the tooth is more prone to breaking.
To protect a tooth after a root canal, dentists often place a crown over it. This restoration restores strength and durability, preventing the tooth from crumbling under normal chewing forces. If you’ve undergone a root canal and don’t have a crown yet, it’s essential to discuss this with your dentist before complications arise.
Your Tooth is Severely Worn Down
Teeth naturally wear down over time, but excessive wear can become a serious issue. If you grind your teeth (a condition called bruxism) or have acid erosion from frequent consumption of acidic foods and drinks, your enamel may wear away faster than normal.
Severely worn-down teeth can become sensitive, develop cracks, and lose their original shape. When this happens, a dental crown can rebuild the tooth’s structure and protect it from further wear. If you notice your teeth appearing shorter than before or experiencing increased sensitivity, a dental crown may be the right solution.
You Have a Misshapen or Discolored Tooth
While crowns are primarily used for structural support, they can also improve the appearance of misshapen or severely discolored teeth. If you have a tooth that stands out due to irregular shape or deep stains that don’t respond to whitening treatments, a dental crown can restore a natural, uniform look.
Patients in Swansea, O’Fallon and nearby areas who are unhappy with the aesthetics of their smile often opt for crowns as a cosmetic solution. Crowns are custom-made to match the surrounding teeth, providing a seamless and natural appearance.
You Have a Dental Bridge That Needs Support
If you have a missing tooth, a dental bridge is a common solution to fill the gap. However, a bridge relies on adjacent teeth for support. To ensure the bridge remains stable, these neighboring teeth often need dental crowns to provide the necessary strength.
If you’re considering a bridge or already have one, maintaining the supporting crowns is crucial to its long-term success. Regular check-ups with Dr. Wilson at Corner Stone Dental can help you ensure your crowns remain in good condition.
What to Expect When Getting a Dental Crown
If you suspect you need a dental crown, your dentist will perform a thorough evaluation, including X-rays, to assess the condition of your tooth. The process typically involves two visits:
- Preparation and Impressions – The dentist reshapes the tooth to make room for the crown and takes impressions to create a custom fit. A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth.
- Final Placement – Once the permanent crown is ready, the dentist removes the temporary one and securely bonds the new crown in place.
Modern crowns are made from materials like porcelain, ceramic, or metal, each offering different benefits based on durability and aesthetics. Contact Dr. Wilson by calling (618) 236-0501 and he will help you choose the best option based on your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
The choice of the best dental crown depends on various factors, including the specific dental condition, location of the tooth, aesthetic preferences, and budget. Porcelain crowns are often favored for their natural appearance, while metal crowns provide excellent durability. Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns offer a balance between strength and aesthetics. Your dentist will evaluate your needs and recommend the most suitable crown type.
Without a crown, a tooth that requires one may be at higher risk of damage or decay. The longevity of a tooth without a crown depends on factors such as the extent of damage, oral hygiene practices, diet, and habits like teeth grinding.
If a tooth requires a dental crown, but you choose not to get one, several complications may arise. The tooth’s structural integrity may be compromised, leading to further damage, such as cracks, fractures, or decay. This can result in pain, sensitivity, and even tooth loss. It’s best to follow your dentist’s advice and a dental crown when necessary to preserve the tooth’s health and function.
Yes, alternative dental treatments are available depending on the specific dental condition. Some alternatives to dental crowns include dental veneers, which are thin shells bonded to the front surface of the teeth to improve aesthetics, and dental bonding, which involves applying a tooth-colored resin to repair minor chips or cracks. However, these alternatives may not be suitable for all cases, and your dentist will assess your needs and recommend the most appropriate treatment option.
Don’t Ignore the Signs – Protect Your Oral Health in Swansea, IL
Ignoring dental issues can lead to bigger problems, including tooth loss and more extensive procedures. If you’re experiencing discomfort, sensitivity, or visible damage to a tooth, it’s time to consult a dentist.
At Corner Stone Dental in Swansea, IL, Dr. Randall E. Wilson provides excellent dental care, including custom crowns to restore and protect your teeth. Whether you’re in Swansea, Shiloh, Collinsville, East Saint Louis or the surrounding areas, schedule a dental check-up by calling (618) 236-0501 to help you catch problems early and prevent costly treatments down the road.