Signs and Symptoms You May Need a Dental Crown

Dental crowns are an effective method to address a variety of dental issues. However, how do you know if you need a dental crown? Understanding the following signs and symptoms can help you maintain optimal oral health and prevent further complications.

Severe tooth decay

Tooth decay is a common problem that can lead to severe damage if left untreated. Severe decay weakens the tooth structure, making it prone to further damage and infection. Common signs of severe tooth decay include:

• Persistent tooth pain
• Sensitivity to hot or cold
• Visible holes or pits in the teeth
• White, brown, or black spots on the teeth
• Bad breath

While dental fillings are typically the go-to treatment for tooth cavities, there are situations where a cavity is too large for a filling to adequately repair the tooth. In these cases, a dental crown acts as a protective cap, covering the entire tooth and preventing the decay from spreading.

Cracked or fractured teeth

Cracked or fractured teeth can be incredibly painful and can worsen over time if not treated properly. Whether the damage is due to an injury, biting down on something hard, or natural wear and tear, a dental crown can restore the structure and integrity of the tooth. Crowns hold the cracked pieces together, preventing further breakage and alleviating pain. Additionally, sharp pain when chewing, sensitivity to temperature changes, or visible cracks in the teeth indicate the need for dental crown treatment.

Worn down teeth

If the patient finds that their teeth appear shorter than they used to, have flat edges, or experience increased sensitivity, a dental crown might be the answer to restoring their smile. Teeth can wear down for various reasons, including grinding (bruxism), acidic erosion, or age-related issues. When teeth wear down, they lose their shape and strength, leading to chewing problems and oral health. Dental crowns can restore the original shape and function of the patient's teeth, providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution to worn-down teeth.

Root canal treatment

During a root canal, a dentist drills into the middle of the affected tooth to remove all of the decay. While this is necessary to preserve the patient's oral health, it can leave the affected tooth more fragile and more susceptible to fractures. Fortunately, the dentist will often place a dental crown over the treated tooth to maintain the integrity of the tooth structure and prevent future complications.

Misshapen or stained teeth

In some cases, a patient may need a dental crown for cosmetic reasons, particularly for misshapen and severely stained teeth. A misshapen tooth may result from a minor chip, severe grinding, or age. Meanwhile, deep stains develop due to habits such as smoking, drinking coffee or dark wines, or poor oral hygiene.

Crowns can improve the appearance of a patient's teeth, providing a uniform and attractive smile. A dental crown can offer a permanent and long-lasting solution if whitening treatments and other cosmetic procedures have not met one's treatment goals. It can also strengthen the tooth's structure and strength, protecting it from further discoloration and damage.