A Chipped Tooth Might Need a Crown Before a New Cavity Can Set In

A chip in your tooth can result in a small crack. If not addressed immediately, this can develop into a larger crack. This larger crack can result in a more severe cavity.

What is a dental crown?

If a tooth has become chipped, cracked, or fractured, a large filling has worn away, or the tooth has been compromised due to excessive decay, your dentist may suggest that a crown be placed over the tooth to protect it from further damage and restore its function. A crown can also restore a tooth’s shape, size, and strength if the tooth is worn down from clenching, grinding, or erosion.

Dental crowns can be made from a variety of materials; metals like gold and silver are often chosen for their durability, while porcelain and ceramic can be matched to the color of your natural teeth. Porcelain is often preferred for visible teeth since it looks like natural enamel. Your dentist can help you determine which material is best for you based on your needs, preferences, and budget.

What problems can a dental crown fix?

A tooth that has been chipped or cracked by trauma or by biting down on something too hard will need a crown in order to restore the strength and function of the tooth and reduce the pain that may be caused by bacteria getting inside the damaged area.

The crown will effectively “cap” the outside of the tooth, protecting it from further damage and sealing it off from bacteria and food particles that could cause decay.

Your dentist will want to examine your tooth to determine if it is damaged enough to the point where it needs a crown. If he does determine this, he will then proceed with fitting you for the crown so that you no longer have to endure the pain that comes from a weakened or damaged tooth.

Dental crowns are not used only for cosmetic purposes. They can actually be used to protect a tooth that is too badly decayed for a filling to fix. In this case, your dentist will fill the area in with some kind of material to protect it while a permanent restoration, such as a crown, is created in the lab.

In addition to being useful as a protective measure, crowns can also help to make your smile look brighter and more uniform since they can cover up any discolorations or imperfections on the teeth surrounding the damaged one. This can help to give you back your perfect smile.

When is a dental crown recommended?

While fillings restore function to a tooth that has been damaged by decay, a dental crown is used to restore the structure. The crown goes over the entire tooth and restores its shape and size. They are often used for teeth that have been broken or severely worn down.

Dentists often recommend crowns when the filling won’t last much longer, but the tooth is still healthy enough to support a crown. A temporary crown may be used while the mouth is healing from the preparation process. Then a permanent crown can be set during a second visit.

To learn more, please call 773-880-2310 to seek professional treatment with Dr. Eliot Tokowitz.