When Do You Need a Dental Crown? Understand Why Is It Recommended

A dental crown is a tooth-coloured cap that replaces a broken, chipped, or discoloured tooth. The tooth cap is cemented to your natural tooth structure or a dental implant rod to restore your smile’s appearance, integrity, and functionality during a dental crown procedure. 

When do you need a dental crown? Dental crowns are considered a restorative dental procedure, so typically you need a dental crown when your dentist believes your oral health and function will be negatively impacted without the dental crown procedure. 

This versatile dental treatment can also be a cosmetic dental procedure, helping to disguise stubborn stains or correct a misshapen tooth. 

Discover the common reasons dentists recommend dental crowns and when a dental crown procedure may be the best solution for your oral health. 

When Do You Need a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns are mostly used to protect weak and damaged teeth. They offer your tooth structural support and protection from further decay.

• Broken and Weak Teeth

If you have a broken tooth or a weak tooth damaged by decay, your dentist may recommend dental crowns. You may also need a dental crown if your tooth is worn down. 

Excessive wear on your teeth can occur from acid reflux and a diet high in acidic foods. Bruxism (grinding teeth) also wears down healthy teeth, and your teeth may need protection, although wearing a nightguard can help prevent unnecessary wear and tear. 

Dental crowns protect your teeth from further wear and decay.

• If You’ve Had a Root Canal

You may need a dental crown to replace an old filling, or following a root canal procedure. Large fillings leave your teeth weaker and more prone to fracturing. Root canals hollow out your tooth, creating a weakened tooth structure. A dental crown helps support the remaining parts of your tooth and protects the tooth from stress and cracks.

• If You Have Other Restorative Dental Procedures

Dental crowns are used as an artificial restoration for dental implants and are also used to anchor a dental bridge in place in your mouth.

• For Cosmetic Reasons

A dental crown procedure lets you change the appearance of your teeth. A dental crown can hide a severely discoloured or misshapen tooth and eliminate any gaps between your teeth. 

Regular checkups and X-rays help your dentist assess your oral health and plan for the best long-term treatments. If your dentist notices a potential problem, like excessive tooth decay or a large loose filling, they may recommend a dental crown procedure. 

Types of Dental Crowns Available

When you need a dental crown, the Sydney Dental Group can help restore your smile by using the latest digital scanning and construction to create customised dental crowns. 

They can be made out of metal, all-ceramic, and porcelain fused to metal (PFM). We also offer zirconia dental crowns. At your initial consultation, the dentist can help you make an informed decision about which crown material is best suited to your lifestyle and budget. 

• Zirconia Dental Crowns

Zirconium dioxide is a very strong form of titanium used to make zirconia-based crowns. These dental crowns can last from 10 to 15 years with the proper care, making them one of the most durable options. 

Zirconia crowns are an excellent alternative to metal and PFM crowns for individuals with metal allergies. Our zirconia crowns are biocompatible, meaning there is less risk of inflammation occurring after their installation. 

• Porcelain Fused to Metal Dental Crowns (PFM)

Porcelain has a similar colour to natural teeth, but it is also translucent, so dental crowns made of porcelain will look more natural than those made of other materials. 

When chemically bonded with metal, they create a durable bond that helps strengthen the crown. If well-cared for with good oral hygiene habits and regular dental checkups, PFM dental crowns can last between up to 15 years. 

• All-Ceramic Crowns

All-ceramic dental crowns blend in with the surrounding teeth and have a beautiful opalescent sheen that makes them attractive for front teeth. People with metal allergies may also prefer these crowns, which can last 5 years or more. However, they are not as durable as PFM and zirconia dental crowns. 

• Metal Dental Crowns

The gold, copper, and other metals used in making these malleable dental crowns prevent the tooth from being damaged by fracture and wear. Although metal dental crowns are visible in the teeth, the combination of metals makes them extremely durable. 

With diligent oral hygiene practices and regular dental checkups, these dental crowns can last up to 10 years and even decades afterwards.  

Schedule Your Next Visit if You Need a Dental Crown

Dental crowns help restore your smile and protect your oral health. When do you need a dental crown procedure? A dentist can determine if you need a crown after an oral examination.

If you need a dental crown, contact Sydney Dental Group. We use the latest digital scanning technology along with the finest dental materials to create dental crowns that fit perfectly and match the rest of your smile. Digital scanning and computer-aided construction ensure your dental crowns appear natural so you can feel confident in your smile. 

Contact our practice on (02) 9158 6135 to make your next appointment or fill out our online form to book your dental checkup. 

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.