The Pros and Cons of Getting a Dental Crown

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength, and function. It’s often used when a filling isn’t enough to repair the tooth, especially after procedures like root canals or in cases of severe fractures.

Crowns are typically made from materials such as porcelain, metal, or zirconia, chosen based on the tooth’s location, the patient’s bite, and aesthetic preferences. The crown is cemented into place, fully encasing the visible portion of the tooth above the gum line to protect it from further damage.

If you're considering whether a dental crown is the right solution for your dental needs, it’s essential to understand how it can restore both function and appearance while preventing future issues.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns offer strong structural support for teeth that are weakened, cracked, or severely worn down. They help preserve the natural tooth by shielding it from further decay or fracture, especially after treatments like root canals.

Crowns restore full chewing function, making it easier to eat without discomfort or sensitivity. They also improve speech clarity in cases where tooth loss or damage affects pronunciation.

Aesthetically, crowns are custom-designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, making them an ideal option for restoring visible teeth without compromising appearance.

Crowns made from durable materials like zirconia or metal can last over a decade with proper oral hygiene, making them a long-term investment in both oral health and functionality - says Dr. Ruggio from nwdgrp.com.

In cases involving large fillings or broken cusps, crowns provide full-coverage protection that a standard filling cannot, reducing the risk of further complications or tooth loss.

Drawbacks of Dental Crowns

Placing a dental crown requires the removal of a significant portion of the natural tooth structure, which is irreversible. This preparation is necessary to ensure the crown fits properly but weakens the underlying tooth.

Patients may experience temporary or long-term sensitivity to hot and cold after the procedure, particularly if the crown is not properly sealed or if the tooth’s nerve is irritated.

Crowns can chip, crack, or become loose over time, especially if subjected to excessive grinding, biting hard objects, or poor oral hygiene. In some cases, they may need to be replaced sooner than expected.

Improper crown fit can lead to gum irritation, decay beneath the crown, or bite alignment issues, requiring adjustment or replacement.

The cost of dental crowns can be high, especially for materials like zirconia or all-ceramic. Insurance coverage may vary, making it important to confirm benefits before starting treatment.

Types of Dental Crowns

• Porcelain crowns are often used for front teeth because they closely resemble natural tooth enamel. They offer strong aesthetic benefits but may be more prone to chipping under heavy pressure.
• Metal crowns, typically made from gold or base metal alloys, are highly durable and resistant to wear. They're ideal for molars where strength is more important than appearance.
• Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns combine the strength of metal with the appearance of porcelain. However, the metal substructure can sometimes cause a dark line near the gum if gums recede.
• Zirconia crowns provide both strength and aesthetics, making them suitable for both front and back teeth. They are less likely to chip and offer excellent longevity.
• Composite resin crowns are less expensive but wear down faster and are more likely to fracture compared to other materials. They’re typically used as a temporary solution.

Each type of crown varies in terms of durability, appearance, and cost. The best choice depends on the location of the tooth, your bite, and cosmetic goals.

Maintenance and Longevity

The lifespan of a dental crown depends heavily on proper oral hygiene and daily habits. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing around the crown helps prevent decay at the margins where the crown meets the natural tooth.

Regular dental checkups are essential to monitor the crown’s condition and catch potential issues early, such as loosening or decay underneath.

Avoiding hard foods like ice, nuts, and hard candy can reduce the risk of chipping or cracking the crown, especially with porcelain or ceramic types.

Using a night guard is recommended for patients who grind their teeth, as bruxism can significantly reduce the longevity of the crown.

With consistent care, most dental crowns last between 10 to 15 years, and some may last even longer depending on the material and placement.

Is a Dental Crown Right for You?

A dental crown is typically recommended when a tooth is too damaged or weakened to support a filling but not so compromised that it requires extraction. It’s also used to restore teeth after root canal therapy, to anchor dental bridges, or to improve the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth.

The decision to get a crown depends on the extent of the damage, the location of the tooth, your bite alignment, and your long-term oral health goals. Front teeth may benefit from more aesthetic materials, while back teeth require strength and durability.

A dental evaluation that includes X-rays and a bite assessment is essential to determine whether a crown is the best solution or if alternatives like inlays, onlays, or veneers might be more appropriate.

Consulting with your dentist will ensure the treatment plan matches both the functional and cosmetic needs of your specific case.