
August 22, 2024
A cracked, decayed, or root canal treated tooth doesn’t have to mean losing it. The dental crown is a special cover for your teeth designed to make it strong again. If you have undergone a root canal treatment or need a crown to strengthen a weakened tooth due to large fillings, knowledge of how crowns work will definitely come in handy.
In this guide, we’ll walk through why crowns are recommended, the different types available, what happens during the procedure, and how to care for your crown so it lasts for years.
There are several reasons why your tooth may be better off with a dental crown.
When a large portion of your tooth becomes decayed, or you have a large filling where the decay is developing around it, the strength of the tooth gets significantly reduced.
As a result, the tooth finds it difficult to cope with regular chewing activity, particularly the sideways movement that occurs naturally during the chewing process. The weakened tooth may develop cracks due to the pressure being applied to it.
Not all crowns are the same. Each type offers a different balance of strength, looks, and cost, so the right one depends on which tooth needs it and what matters most to you.
Here’s a quick breakdown of your options.
Here’s our step-by-step procedure for a dental crown.
After getting a crown, you might be wondering how to properly care for it. Luckily, looking after a crown is quite similar to taking care of your teeth.
Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Dental crowns are quite resilient. On average, most crowns last for at least 10 to 15 years, but can even last longer if cared for properly. Crowns made from metal last the longest, whereas porcelain crowns may wear out sooner when there is continuous grinding and chewing of foods.
Good oral hygiene practices will increase the life of your crown. This includes brushing and flossing, getting regular checkups at your dentist’s office, and avoiding things such as nail biting and opening packages with your teeth.
If your dentist has recommended a crown and you choose to delay the treatment, there are potential risks. The tooth that has already been weakened by decay or injury can continue weakening; this may eventually result in:
Cracks or fractures that might make the tooth unrepairable.
Infection, requiring a root canal or even extraction.
Increased sensitivity or pain.
Higher costs due to more complex treatment later.
In short, postponing a crown can transform a simple fix into a more expensive dental issue.
Having a dental crown doesn’t mean the end of the world. It may be quite the contrary, since wearing a dental crown can be an advantage, as you will have a chance to retain your tooth for many more years. If you have any concerns regarding damaged teeth, visit a qualified dentist to discuss your options.
No. Your dentist will numb the area, so you won’t feel anything during the procedure. Mild sensitivity in the first few days after the procedure is expected.
Usually two visits are required; the first one lasts about 60-90 minutes, while the second one lasts about 20-30 minutes.
This is unusual, but it can happen when the bonding agent is worn out, there is decay beneath it, or you bite down on something hard. You should see your dentist immediately if this occurs.
This depends on several factors and may cost from $800 to $2,500 per tooth. Dental insurance covers a part of this fee in many cases.
You can eat, but avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods on that side of your mouth to prevent dislodging the temporary crown before your permanent one is placed.

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