A dental crown covers a tooth to protect it. It restores a damaged tooth so it regains its original appearance and shape. Until recently, if a tooth became seriously damaged, it was extracted. Today, dentists use dental crowns to cover a damaged tooth instead of pulling it. Dr. McCune places a natural-colored crown on a tooth to protect it or to improve its appearance, function, or shape. But how do you know if you need a dental crown or not? Here are six of the top signs you need a dental crown.
Do you have an advanced cavity?
In some cases, your Buffalo Grove, IL dentist will recommend a dental crown instead of a filling. When a tooth suffers an advanced cavity, it lacks the strength needed to accommodate the filling. Dental crowns are often a better choice. They help strengthen the tooth and prevent further decay and damage from occurring. Ask your Creekside Dentist if a crown or filling is the right option for you.
Have you had a root canal?
Sometimes, Dr. McCune has to drill into the middle of a tooth to remove decay. Even though the drilling is a necessary part of a root canal, it can weaken the tooth’s structure. A weakened tooth is more vulnerable to fracturing. Since the back teeth are used for most chewing action, they are more vulnerable. A filling can often fix a front tooth. Crowns can provide a tooth with protection and strength following a root canal.
Do you have a fractured or broken tooth?
A fractured tooth is often the result of an injury. Sometimes, it fractures in more than one place. A dental crown can help keep the tooth together and provide the support it needs. The severity of the break determines if a crown or filling is adequate. Crowns usually offer protection from further damage.
Are your teeth misshapen or discolored?
Having teeth that are severely stained can be embarrassing. Misshapen teeth can make you feel self-conscious too. Dental crowns are a good way to correct teeth that are either misshapen or stained. The crowns improve their appearance and strengthen the structure of the tooth.
Did the Creekside dentist recommend a bridge?
Dental bridges are used to fill in gaps where teeth are missing. Crowns are often used to anchor a dental bridge. The crowns are placed over teeth on either side of the gap, then the bridge is attached to each crown. Since dental crowns add strength, they provide great support for a bridge.
Do you grind your teeth?
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, usually occurs while you are sleeping. Sometimes it can be due to having anxiety, but often the reason is unknown. Severe bruxism can cause pain or sore jaws. It can also lead to damaged teeth. Grinding your teeth leads to the teeth being worn down. Dental crowns can be used to repair the worn-down teeth, so they regain their original appearance. However, you will need treatment for bruxism before crowns are placed, or you can damage the crown too.
Talk to Your Buffalo Grove, IL Dentist
If you think you may be a good candidate for dental crowns due to one of the circumstances described above, contact us to schedule an appointment with Dr. McCune at Creekside Dental. He can discuss your concerns and examine your teeth to see if you need a dental crown or if another type of dental treatment is needed. We’d be happy to schedule your next exam.