You’ve probably heard of dental crowns in Knoxville. Dentists use these permanent prosthetic coverings, also known as caps, to naturally enhance the look and function of teeth by providing protection and support where it's needed most. Besides covering up damaged teeth, crowns also work to fill in the gaps where there are missing ones. Moreover, a dental crown also works to support and strengthen a severely damaged tooth.
Signs It Might Be Time for a Dental Crown
You Have Stained or Misshapen Teeth
While misshapen teeth can happen naturally, they can also result from a small chip or severe teeth grinding. On the other hand, smoking tobacco, drinking coffee, or failing to brush and floss teeth can cause stained teeth. Dental crowns are ideal solutions for patients with misshapen, stained, or severely discolored teeth. Consider getting dental crowns if any cosmetic issue makes you feel anxious, self-conscious, or embarrassed in social situations.
Crowns come in different types:
- All-ceramic or all-porcelain
- Composite resin
- Porcelain fused to metal
- Metal alloys or gold
You Have a Weak Tooth
A weak tooth may result from decay, injury, a large filling, or enamel loss. Regardless of its cause, a weak tooth can cause pain and discomfort. A dental crown could be your best option, whether you have weak or loose teeth. Installing one helps prevent further damage to the compromised tooth as you chew your food or brush your teeth.
You Have a Broken or Fractured Tooth
You may have a broken tooth if you're experiencing excessive tooth pain after sustaining a heavy blow to the face. A dental crown does more for a broken tooth than just restoring its overall appearance. Besides keeping the broken tooth together, a crown offers protection from additional damage while it supports and strengthens the tooth.
You Have a Large Cavity
If you're dealing with an advanced cavity, the affected tooth won't be strong enough to receive a filling. Consequently, your dentist will likely suggest a dental crown to strengthen the tooth and protect it from further damage.
You've Had a Root Canal Procedure
Dentists perform a root canal procedure to treat a severely decayed or infected tooth. During the process, they drill into the middle of the tooth to eliminate the decay. While drilling is necessary for the treatment, it compromises the tooth's structural integrity. Without a dental crown covering a tooth's visible part, it becomes more vulnerable to fracture.
You Have Bruxism
You suffer from bruxism if you involuntarily clench or grind your teeth during sleep. You may experience pain, sore jaws, and tooth damage if your condition is severe. Placing a crown over worn-down teeth restores their function and original appearance.
You Need a Bridge
Dentists use a dental bridge to fill a gap caused by a missing tooth. Since bridgework requires dental crowns to anchor the bridge, the dentist places the crowns over the abutment teeth on both sides of the gap. Since crowns are strong enough to support the bridge, the dentist attaches the bridge that holds the artificial tooth to the crown.
Considering Dental Crowns in Knoxville?
Dr. Brian Rich, DMD, is committed to using state-of-the-art technology to help patients get the dental care they need as comfortably and quickly as possible. If you need more information on dental crowns, Dr. Rich and his team of highly trained and dedicated professionals can explain what goes into restoring your smile. Contact our office today to make an appointment.