Why Does a Tooth Require a Crown?

Sometimes referred to as a “cap,” a dental crown is a very common procedure that is used to restore a damaged tooth to ideal form, function, and aesthetics. The reason why a tooth needs to be crowned can vary from patient to patient and may sometimes be used purely for cosmetic reasons to hide a tooth that has darkened or stained due to medication or illness. But usually, crowns are used in situations where the tooth or teeth are damaged or are at risk of fracturing.

Does a Crown Help Protect a Tooth?

When you get a crown, a strong material such as porcelain or metal is used to cover your entire tooth down to the gum line. This artificial crown strengthens the tooth and simultaneously provides protection from forces due to chewing, biting, clenching, and grinding. There are a variety of reasons that your dentist may suggest getting a crown. Most commonly, when a tooth breaks or has had a root canal, a crown is placed to protect the integrity of the underlying tooth. In the case of a root canal, the tooth is no longer vital (alive), so it can become dry and brittle with time. Crowning a root-canaled tooth reduces its risk of fracturing and enables it to remain strong for many years. But it isn’t just broken and root canaled teeth that can benefit from crown coverage, teeth that have been restored numerous times with large fillings are also at a greater risk of fracturing. This risk is especially true for teeth that are more filling than natural tooth, or have amalgam fillings. Because of the risk of fracturing, many Calgary dentists will tell you that these teeth should also be crowned.

Are All Crowns the Same?

Dental crowns aren’t all the same. Materials can vary and designs can range from ¾ coverage to full coverage.  The differing materials present a huge advantage to dentists and patients as cosmetic concerns and bite needs can be taken into consideration when choosing which material will perform the best in your mouth.  Though the thought of a gold crown might not be everyone’s choice, this material actually holds up incredibly well in the mouth and is a great option for patients who grind their teeth or are prone to excessive wear.  Gold wears at the same rate as dental enamel, and it also provides excellent thermal protection.  On the other hand, if having a smile that shows no signs of dental treatment is your goal, then selecting a tooth-coloured material makes sense.  Full ceramic crowns have come a long way in both strength and shading. These advances have allowed dentists to use this material in mouths that have heavy bites and on front teeth that require perfect aesthetics.  Strong, beautiful and lasting – porcelain dental crowns not only protect teeth they can also add to a person’s smile.

If you think you may benefit from a dental crown, it’s a good idea to talk to your dentist about the different options. The friendly Calgary dentists at Centennial Smiles would be happy to answer any of your questions and give you the information you need. If you’d like to talk with a Calgary dental expert about Dental Crowns and Restorations, talk to the dental team at Centennial Smiles Dental today! (587) 317-7959