When Should You Opt for Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns provide a reliable solution for restoring damaged teeth. They strengthen and protect your teeth, extending their lifespan and enhancing their function. Let's take a closer look at dental crowns, their types, and when you might need them.

What Are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are custom-made, tooth-shaped caps that fully cover damaged or weakened teeth. They restore the tooth’s size, shape, and appearance while providing the strength needed for normal chewing and biting. Dentists place crowns over natural teeth or dental implants, which act as artificial roots anchored in the jawbone. With proper care, crowns can last 5 to 15 years.

What Are the Types of Dental Crowns?

Today, dental crowns come in a variety of materials, each offering unique benefits. Early crowns were typically metal, but modern options include:

Stainless Steel

Porcelain

Other metals like silver or gold

Ceramic

Composite resin

Zirconia

Hybrid materials (a blend of the above)

Dentists choose the best material based on the tooth’s location, the extent of damage, the tooth’s function, and the position of your gum tissue.

When Should You Consider Dental Crowns?

You should consider a dental crown if you have:

Broken teeth: Broken teeth are vulnerable to further fractures and severe pain. Crowns protect the remaining structure and prevent additional damage.

Cracked teeth: Cracks can develop from clenching, chewing hard foods, nail-biting, or grinding. Without treatment, these cracks can worsen. Crowns stabilize the tooth, reduce sensitivity, and prevent further cracking.

Decayed teeth: Tooth decay weakens the structure, making it prone to fractures. Crowns restore the strength and appearance of the affected teeth.

Teeth after root canal therapy: After a root canal, the remaining tooth can become brittle. A crown protects the tooth from further damage and restores its function.

At Grand Ledge Smiles, we provide top-quality dental services. Our experienced team is dedicated to delivering the personalized care and attention you deserve. If you have damaged, broken, or decayed teeth, schedule an appointment with our experts. If you have questions, call us at (517) 412-2267 or contact us online.