How Bad Can A Tooth Be And Still Get A Crown?
A dental crown is a restorative option for a damaged tooth. When there is too much damage for a filling to be effective, a crown can sometimes be placed over the tooth for protection.
Is a crown always an option? How bad can a tooth be and still get a crown? Here are the requirements for a dental crown restoration.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cover that is placed over an existing tooth when it is damaged. The tooth is reduced in size to make room for the crown to be placed over the top. The root of the tooth remains in place for support, allowing the tooth to function naturally.
When is a Dental Crown Effective?
Here are some situations when dental crowns can be effective:
- Widespread decay. A tooth with a significant amount of decay may not be effectively repaired with a filling. A crown can save the tooth and protect it from further damage.
- Broken or cracked tooth. If a large portion of a tooth is cracked or broken, a crown may be the best restorative option.
- After a root canal. A tooth that needs a root canal due to infection will most often need to be covered with a crown afterwards.
When is a Dental Crown Not an Option?
There are some situations when a dental crown cannot save a tooth:
- Extensive damage. Sometimes the damage is so extensive that there is not enough tooth material left to place a crown.
- Certain types of cracks in teeth. A crack in a tooth that extends or begins under the gum line may not be saved with a crown.
- Dead tooth. If the dental pulp inside of a tooth loses its blood supply, the tooth may be considered dead and cannot be saved with a crown.
Alternatives to Dental Crowns
A crown is usually the last remaining option for preserving the natural tooth. If a tooth can’t be saved with a dental crown, it will most likely need to be extracted. After a tooth is extracted, it will need to be replaced with one of the following options:
- Dental bridge. A dental bridge replaces one or a few teeth in a row using the healthy teeth for support. It is a row of artificial teeth with crowns on each end that fit over the existing teeth. The artificial teeth (pontics) are suspended between them and sit on top of the gums.
- Dental implants. A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically placed in the jaw to replace the natural root of a tooth. A crown is attached to the implant to replace the missing tooth. Dental implants have no effect on the neighboring teeth and help to preserve the bone structure of the jaw. They are considered to be the highest quality tooth replacement option.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns
How long does a dental crown last?
A crown can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years on average. But it may last longer with good care and maintenance. Some crowns will last for 30 years or more.
What are dental crowns made of?
A dental crown can be made of porcelain, metal, or porcelain fused to metal. Porcelain offers the most natural appearance, but metal offers more strength. Porcelain fused to metal can sometimes provide the best of both options.
Doctors Lake Family Dental Provides Same Day Crowns
If you have a tooth that needs a dental crown, Doctors Lake Family Dental can restore your tooth in as little as one appointment. With CEREC technology, we can create a custom crown right in our office that offers a natural look and function.
To learn more, call 904-264-6700 or contact us today to schedule an appointment.