Throughout the course of your life, there are times in which a tooth may become damaged, worn down, or require a root canal. Whatever the case may be, a dentist may suggest a dental crown as a means of safeguarding the affected tooth. A dental crown is essentially a false tooth that is placed over a tooth to restore its shape, function, and appearance. Please continue reading to learn when a dental crown may be necessary and how our dental crowns/dentists located in Basking Ridge & Morristown, NJ, can help you understand your treatment options.
What is a Crown?
During a dental appointment, it’s possible that your dentist may detect an issue with one of your teeth. In such cases, they may determine that the tooth needs the protection of a dental crown. A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that restores the natural tooth structure, function, and appearance. Dental crowns may be composed of various materials, including resin, metal, and porcelain. They are primarily used to restore weak, broken, or decayed teeth.
When Would I Need One?
As mentioned above, crowns serve several purposes. They are often used for restorative treatments. The most common reason for a dental crown is to restore a badly decayed tooth. Smaller cavities can usually be repaired with dental fillings. However, larger cavities can compromise the structure of your tooth, leaving it more susceptible to breaking. Therefore, a dental crown may be necessary to protect the tooth from further damage.
Additionally, a dental crown may be necessary to repair a cracked, chipped, or broken tooth. While minor chips can be repaired with cosmetic remnants like veneers or bonding, significant tooth damage will require a detailed crown. The crown will cover the tooth and strengthen it, enabling you to eat, speak, and smile again.
Furthermore, it can be used to protect a tooth after a root canal. To treat an infected tooth, a dentist may open a hole in the tooth to extract decayed material. Then, they fill the tooth and cover it with a filling or a crown. Dental crowns are usually more effective for rear teeth than filings, as your back teeth experience much more force and pressure.
If you think that you may require a dental crown, please don’t hesitate to contact our office today to schedule an appointment with Dental Associates of Basking Ridge, who can help you determine the best treatment option to restore your bite and smile. Our dental team is prepared to help you maintain and improve your oral health.
