When we tell a patient they need a dental crown, we usually get one of two reactions: Confusion or worry. Let’s clear both of those up right now. A dental crown is simply a cap that fits over your tooth. It looks exactly like a natural tooth. And it’s one of the most common, reliable procedures we do here at Apex Dental.
But how do you know if you might need one? Here are the most likely reasons.
You Have a Tooth That Is Chipped or Broken
Maybe you bit down on a popcorn kernel. Maybe you grind your teeth at night or you took a spill on the basketball court. Whatever the cause, a chipped tooth is not something to ignore. Small fractures might not hurt at first. But over time, they can grow deeper. Food and bacteria sneak in. Suddenly that little chip becomes a big problem.
A crown wraps around the entire tooth, holding it together like a hug. It stops the crack from spreading and protects what’s left of your natural tooth.
You Just Finished a Root Canal
You come in for a root canal, thinking that is the hard part. Then we tell you that you will need a crown afterward. A tooth that needs a root canal has usually been weakened by deep decay or infection. The root canal cleans out the infection, but it doesn’t make the tooth stronger. Without a crown, that tooth could chip or fracture the next time you chew something crunchy.
Think of it this way: The root canal saves the tooth’s life. The crown gives it the armor it needs to survive everyday use.
Your Filling Is Too Big
Fillings are great for small cavities. But sometimes a cavity gets large before it gets treated. Maybe it’s been years since you last saw a dentist. Or maybe an old filling has started to break down.
When a filling takes up more than half of your tooth, the tooth becomes fragile. The remaining walls of enamel can crack under pressure. A crown replaces the entire outer surface, giving you a fresh start.
You Are Covering a Dental Implant
If you’ve lost a tooth, dental implants are the best way to replace it. But the implant itself is just a metal post placed in your jawbone. It needs something on top to look and act like a real tooth: a dental crown. We match the color to your surrounding teeth so no one can tell the difference. You could eat, smile, and talk exactly like you used to.
Your Tooth Is Worn Down
Some people grind their teeth for years without realizing it. Others have a bad bite that puts too much pressure on certain teeth. Over time, teeth can get shorter, flatter, and more sensitive. A crown helps restore the original height and shape of your tooth. It also protects what’s left from wearing down any further.
What to Expect at Apex Dental
We use digital technology, which means no goopy impression material. We capture a precise 3D image of your tooth and create a crown that fits perfectly.
Most crown appointments are comfortable and straightforward. We numb the area, shape the tooth, take our digital scan, and place a temporary crown. On your second visit, we bond the final crown in place.
Don’t Wait Until It Hurts
The best time to get a crown is before your tooth becomes an emergency. If you have a chipped, worn, or heavily filled tooth, give us a call at (508) 506-1691. Let us take a look and help you decide what makes sense for your smile.
Because protecting your natural teeth is always our goal. And sometimes, a crown is the best way to do that.