Are you struggling with a damaged or weakened tooth? If you are, you might be wondering if a dental crown is the solution you need. At iSmile Dental, we offer a whole suite of dental services to help you restore your oral health. This guide will help you understand if a dental crown is the right option.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made “cap” that fits over your existing tooth. Think of it as a protective helmet for your tooth — it covers the entire visible portion above the gum line, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance.
But what is the purpose of a tooth crown? It’s there to reinforce and protect a damaged tooth, allowing you to bite, chew, and smile with confidence. Understanding how dental crowns are attached can ease your anxiety about them as well.
By going over your existing tooth, you can maintain the same facial appearance without worrying about losing bone structure.
When Are Dental Crowns Necessary?
Here are some of the reasons you might need a dental crown:
- You have a severely decayed tooth that can’t be fixed with a filling
- Your tooth is cracked, worn down, or weakened
- You’ve had a root canal and need to protect the treated tooth
- You want to cover a severely discolored or misshapen tooth
- You’re getting a dental implant crown to replace a missing tooth
Dental crowns are versatile solutions that can address a wide range of dental issues. They’re not just about aesthetics — they play a crucial role in maintaining your oral health and function.
Types of Dental Crowns
Not every type of dental crown is right for every situation. Check out the options to determine what is the best choice for you:
1. Porcelain or ceramic crowns: These blend in perfectly with your natural teeth and are ideal for visible front teeth.
2. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns: A strong option that combines the strength of metal with the natural look of porcelain.
3. Metal crowns: Mostly used in the back of the mouth where appearance doesn’t matter. Very strong.
4. Zirconia crowns: A newer option that is both strong and natural looking.
When is it Too Late for a Dental Crown?
While dental crowns are incredibly versatile, there are situations where they might not be the best solution. If a tooth is too severely damaged or decayed, extraction might be necessary. In this case, we might recommend a dental implant crown instead — a great option for replacing a missing tooth entirely.
But don’t wait until it’s too late! The earlier you address dental issues, the more likely we can save your natural tooth with a crown.
Final Thoughts
Dental crowns are one of the best solutions for protecting and restoring damaged teeth. They can make a world of difference in both the function and appearance of your smile.
At iSmile Dental, we’re committed to providing you with the highest quality dental care. Whether you need a single crown or are considering more extensive dental work, we’re here to help you achieve a healthy smile.
Remember, your oral health is a part of your overall health. Don’t let small dental issues become larger, more significant problems. We believe that everyone deserves to have a beautiful smile, and our patient experience is most important to us.
Reinforce your at-risk teeth with a dental crown now! Contact iSmile Dental today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a stronger, healthier smile.