Trying to decide between a dental crown and veneers, a tooth extraction, or a dental bridge? Each of these options provides numerous benefits as well as some disadvantages. Veneers are more for aesthetic benefits and a dental bridge can replace up to three missing teeth. Dental crowns, on the other hand, can be used to meet a variety of needs.
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that fits directly over a natural tooth that has been damaged. It can be made from metal, porcelain, or zirconium. Our dentist recommends dental crowns to patients with chipped, cracked, broken, decayed, discolored, or missing teeth. If you are suffering from any of these issues, contact our friendly dental team today for an initial consultation.
To decide if a dental crown is right for your smile, consider these advantages and disadvantages.
Dental Crown Pros
1. Protect a weak or damaged tooth
Cavities, stress, and trauma all weaken or damage dental enamel. In severe cases, dentists may recommend a dental crown or a tooth extraction. If you opt for a dental crown, the dentist will prepare your natural tooth by cleaning and reshaping it, have your unique dental crown made at a dental lab (or in-office), and place the crown with a strong dental adhesive.
2. Improve the appearance of a tooth
Although dental crowns aren’t mainly for aesthetic purposes, they certainly benefit the appearance of a smile. When made from porcelain specifically, a crown looks identical to natural teeth. Our dentist will work with a lab technician to ensure your crown fits right in with the rest of your teeth, so no one but you will know the difference!
3. Pain relief
If you need a dental crown, it's very likely that your natural tooth is causing you pain. Our dental team will ensure you are as comfortable as possible during the preparation and placement of the crown. Once placed and healed, you’ll no longer feel the pain or discomfort you had before.
4. Long-lasting
More durable than inlays, onlays, and fillings, dental crowns are made to last. As long as they are properly cared for, your crown could last longer than ten years.
5. Improved chewing and speaking
A missing or damaged tooth can make simple tasks like chewing and speaking difficult. This not only affects these specific parts of a person’s life, but it can also have a negative impact on their confidence and overall health. Restoring the tooth with a crown will dramatically improve chewing and speaking.
Dental Crown Cons
1. Reduction of dental enamel
To place a dental crown, part of your dental enamel must be removed from your natural tooth. This may be considered a disadvantage because it means you will always need to have something to cover and protect your natural tooth, however, the alternative is to completely extract the tooth.
2. May need to be replaced
Although unlikely if you are attending regular dental cleanings and practicing good oral hygiene, your dental crown may need to be replaced every five to ten years. Decay beneath the crown, a crack, or a loose crown, are all reasons to have your crown replaced.
3. Possibility of Nerve Damage
As with any medical procedure, there are risks to having a dental crown placed. If the tooth is filed too thin before placing the dental crown, you may experience nerve damage. In these cases, our dentist may recommend root canal therapy or complete nerve removal.
4. Dental sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is another risk to consider before choosing a dental crown. If a crown does not fit properly or if it rubs against neighboring teeth, you may experience sensitivity to hot and cold substances. This can be very uncomfortable and you should contact your dentist right away for treatment.
Ease Your Dental Crown Anxieties
The key to reducing dental crown risks is to choose an experienced and trusted dental provider. Read reviews, get recommendations from friends and family, ask questions at your initial consultation, and follow your gut before undergoing any procedure to ensure you’re in the hands of a great dentist.
If you live in our area or are willing to drive, contact our friendly dental team today to schedule an appointment with our gentle and skilled dentist. We look forward to restoring your smile back to health and beauty!