A dental crown is one of the most common and effective restorative treatments we perform at BlueDot Dental. Sometimes called a dental cap, this custom-made covering fits over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. But how do you know if you actually need one? Let’s explore the situations where a tooth crown procedure becomes necessary.
What Exactly Is a Dental Crown?
Think of a dental crown as a protective helmet for your tooth. It’s a tooth-shaped cap that completely covers the visible portion of your tooth above the gum line. Dr. Aaron Jeziorski crafts each crown to match your natural teeth in color and shape, ensuring it blends seamlessly with your smile. Modern crowns are incredibly durable and can last 10-15 years or even longer with proper care.
When Do You Need a Crown?
So, when do you need a crown? There are several scenarios where this restoration becomes the best treatment option:
After a Root Canal
Teeth that have undergone root canal therapy become more brittle over time since they no longer have a living nerve supplying nutrients. A dental crown protects these weakened teeth from cracking or breaking during normal chewing.
To Repair a Severely Damaged Tooth
If you have a tooth with extensive decay or a large fracture, a filling might not provide enough support. When more than half of your tooth structure is compromised, a crown offers the comprehensive coverage needed to hold everything together and prevent further damage.
To Replace a Large or Failing Filling
Over time, large fillings can weaken the remaining tooth structure. If you have an old, oversized filling that’s starting to fail, replacing it with a crown can provide better long-term protection for your tooth.
For Cosmetic Improvements
Sometimes a dental cap serves an aesthetic purpose. Crowns can cover severely discolored teeth that don’t respond to whitening, or reshape teeth that are poorly formed or irregularly sized.
To Support a Dental Bridge
If you’re missing one or more teeth, crowns are placed on the teeth adjacent to the gap to anchor a dental bridge in place.
Signs You Might Need a Dental Crown
Watch for these warning signs that might indicate you need a crown:
- Persistent tooth pain or sensitivity
- A visible crack or chip in your tooth
- An old filling that feels loose or has fallen out
- A tooth that feels weak when you bite down
- Severe discoloration that bothers you
What to Expect During the Tooth Crown Procedure
The tooth crown procedure at our Gilbert, AZ, office typically requires two visits. During your first appointment, Dr. Aaron Jeziorski will prepare your tooth by removing any decay and reshaping it to accommodate the crown. We’ll take detailed impressions that serve as a blueprint for your custom crown, and place a temporary crown to protect your tooth.
At your second visit, usually a few weeks later, we’ll remove the temporary crown and carefully fit and cement your permanent crown into place. We’ll make any necessary adjustments to ensure your bite feels comfortable and natural.
Ready to Restore Your Smile?
If you’re experiencing any of the issues mentioned above, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. At BlueDot Dental, we’re committed to preserving your natural teeth whenever possible, and a dental crown might be the perfect solution to protect and strengthen your tooth for years to come.
Call us today at (480) 712-6728 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Aaron Jeziorski. We’ll evaluate your specific situation and discuss whether a dental crown is the right choice for your oral health needs.