Sometimes your teeth need a little extra help to stay strong and healthy. That’s where a dental crown comes in. But how do you know when you need one? At Hermitage Dental, we want to help you catch the signs early. We provide dental crown treatment in Edmonton, AB, to restore the shade and shape of your teeth. Learn about the top signs you may need this restoration, and call us if you have questions.
1. You Have a Cracked or Broken Tooth
If you have cracked or broken a tooth from biting something hard or from an injury, you might need a crown. A small chip can sometimes be fixed with bonding. But a larger crack or break often requires more support.
A filling may not be strong enough to fix the damage, especially if a large part of the tooth is missing. A crown can hold the tooth together and protect it from getting worse. Without a crown, the crack can spread and cause the tooth to split all the way to the root. That could mean losing the tooth entirely.
2. You Have a Large Cavity
When a cavity is small, we can usually fix it with a filling. But a filling might not be enough if the decay is too big. A tooth with a large cavity is weaker and more likely to break.
A crown can cover and protect the remaining tooth structure. It keeps the tooth from breaking or getting infected. If you have a large cavity, a crown is often the best way to save the tooth and keep it functional for years to come.
3. You Have Had a Root Canal
A root canal helps save a tooth when the inside is infected or damaged. After a root canal, the tooth becomes weaker and more likely to crack. The nerve and blood supply are removed, so the tooth can become brittle over time.
That is why we often place a crown afterward. The crown protects the tooth and makes sure it lasts. Without a crown, a tooth that has had a root canal is at high risk of breaking. A crown gives it the strength it needs to handle normal chewing.
4. You Have a Worn Tooth
Some people grind or clench their teeth, especially at night. This is called bruxism. Over time, grinding can wear down the teeth and make them shorter or flat. It can also cause chips, cracks, and sensitivity.
If a tooth is badly worn, a crown can restore its shape and protect it from more damage. A crown also helps improve your bite and prevents further wear on your other teeth. If you notice your teeth looking shorter or flatter, it is one of the signs you need a dental crown.
5. You Have a Misshapen or Discolored Tooth
Sometimes a tooth is healthy but does not look right. It might be oddly shaped, too small, or deeply discolored. Teeth whitening or dental bonding cannot always fix these issues.
A crown may be the best choice if cosmetic treatments cannot solve the problem. It can improve your smile and help your teeth look more even. Crowns are custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. No one will ever know it is not your real tooth.
6. You Have a Loose or Broken Filling
If you have had a filling for a while and it falls out or breaks, your tooth may be at risk. A loose or broken filling can allow bacteria to get inside the tooth. This can lead to decay and infection.
A crown may be a better long-term solution, especially if the tooth has been filled more than once. It will give the tooth better protection and help prevent future problems. If you keep losing fillings in the same tooth, a crown is often the answer.
7. You Have Pain When You Bite or Chew
Pain when biting down could be a sign of a cracked tooth or a weak spot in the enamel. This type of pain often means the tooth is under stress and may be at risk of breaking further.
A crown can help take the pressure off that tooth and protect it from breaking. If you notice this kind of pain, it is a good idea to get it checked. Ignoring it could lead to a more serious problem.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a cap that covers your entire tooth. It is custom-made to fit your tooth perfectly. Crowns can be made from different materials, including porcelain, ceramic, and metal.
Porcelain and ceramic crowns look natural and blend in with your surrounding teeth. They are a great choice for front teeth. Metal crowns are stronger and often used for back teeth where chewing forces are greater.
Crowns are durable and can last 10 to 15 years or more with proper care. They restore the shape, size, and function of your tooth while also improving its appearance.
Book Your Crown Appointment Today
At Hermitage Dental, your dental health is our top priority. Our dentists can help if you think you might need a dental crown in Edmonton, AB, or want to ensure your teeth are in good shape. Call us today at 587-806-4168 or request an appointment online. We’re proud to serve Fort Saskatchewan, Dunluce, and other Edmonton communities.