Dental Crowns: When Do You Need One?

If your dentist has recommended a dental crown, you might have a few questions. Why does the tooth need one? What does a crown actually do? And how do you know when a crown is the right treatment?

Dental crowns are commonly used to restore and protect teeth that have become damaged or weakened. Depending on your individual situation, a crown may help restore the function, strength, and appearance of a tooth.

Understanding why crowns are recommended can help you feel more comfortable discussing your treatment options with your dentist.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a restoration designed to cover the visible portion of a tooth. You can think of it as a protective covering created specifically for the tooth being treated.

A crown can help restore the tooth’s shape and function while providing additional support. Because every patient’s smile is different, crowns are planned with the individual tooth and surrounding smile in mind.

The goal is to restore the tooth so that it works comfortably as part of your smile.

Why Might Your Dentist Recommend a Crown?

There are several situations in which a dentist may discuss a dental crown as a treatment option.

A tooth may have been weakened by significant decay or damaged over time. In other cases, a tooth may have a large existing restoration and need additional support.

Crowns may also be considered when restoring the appearance or function of certain teeth.

However, needing dental treatment doesn’t automatically mean you need a crown. Your dentist will first need to evaluate the tooth and determine which treatment option is appropriate for your individual situation.

What Happens if a Damaged Tooth Isn’t Treated?

It can be tempting to delay dental treatment when a tooth isn’t causing significant pain. Unfortunately, the absence of discomfort doesn’t necessarily mean the tooth is healthy.

Dental problems can sometimes progress over time. Having a damaged or weakened tooth evaluated allows your dentist to determine what’s happening and explain whether treatment is necessary.

Addressing a concern earlier may also give you a better understanding of your treatment options before the problem becomes more complicated.

Will a Dental Crown Look Natural?

The appearance of dental work is understandably important to many patients.

When planning a crown, your dentist considers how the restoration will fit into your overall smile. The goal is to restore function while creating an appearance that complements the surrounding teeth.

If you’re concerned about what your crown may look or feel like, discuss those concerns during your appointment. Your dentist can explain what to expect based on your specific treatment.

Do You Think You May Need a Dental Crown?

The only way to know whether a crown is right for your tooth is to have it evaluated by a dentist.

If you have a damaged tooth, an older restoration, or another dental concern, Saxon Dentistry can examine the area and explain the available treatment options.

Have questions about dental crowns in Oklahoma City? Contact Saxon Dentistry to schedule an appointment and learn more about your options.