A dental crown is often used to treat dental cavities, especially when the cavity is too large or too deep for a dentist to repair with a dental filling. This review provides a detailed look at when a dental crown is needed to repair a tooth that has a cavity and how a dental crown compares with other cavity restoration solutions.
By learning more about dental crown treatment for a cavity, you can make a more informed decision as to whether or not a dental crown (or another form of restoration) is most appropriate for your oral health needs and goals.
A dental crown is used to repair a tooth that is damaged. It is a flexible type of dental restoration that can repair many types of teeth damage, including but not limited to chips, cracks, worn-down teeth from bruxism, and dental cavities. There are different types of dental crowns. Notably, the most common types are a ceramic crown, metal crown, porcelain-fused-to-metal crown, and gold alloy crown. Each option offers unique pros and cons to consider.
A dental filling is perhaps the most common type of cavity treatment. However, a filling is typically only an option if the tooth damage is minor. If the cavity is larger, then a dental crown is more likely necessary. In addition, a root canal procedure may be necessary if the tooth decay extends to the root of the tooth. A dental crown is typically placed after a root canal procedure to ensure the long-term support and strength of the tooth (see below).
Root canal treatment involves the removal of decay inside the root of the tooth. The cavity is then filled with gutta-percha (a healthy material that is better at filling larger cavities). Dentists often recommend root canal treatment for cavities that are too large for a dental filling. After a root canal procedure, the dentist can then place a dental crown to protect the tooth long-term.
Tooth extraction is often the last resort when treating a cavity, and it is generally only recommended if the tooth cannot be saved by root canal therapy or another restorative procedure. For example, if the support of the tooth is weakened by periodontal disease, then the placement of a dental crown is not likely going to be enough to save the tooth from becoming lost.
The dental crown placement process has never been easier for patients. The process involves preparing the tooth, which may involve removing a small amount of enamel to make room for the crown, followed by taking a dental impression. The impression is then sent to the laboratory where it is customized for the optimal size and fit. Once the crown arrives back at the dentist’s office, the crown is then placed. While awaiting the permanent crown, the dentist can place a temporary crown.
It is best to ask questions that you have about dental crown placement with a licensed dentist during a consultation visit. The following are two common questions (and answers) that dentists receive about crowns for cavity treatment.
The invasiveness of dental crown placement depends on the specifics of your situation. For example, a patient that requires a root canal may have a more invasive process. However, in most cases, the procedure does not cause much discomfort. There may be some minor discomfort while the tooth is prepared as well, but the placement of the crown is painless for most patients.
This depends on several factors, including how well you care for your crown and the type of crown material; a metal crown (or porcelain-fused-to-metal crown) is likely to last longer than a ceramic crown. On average, crowns last between 10 and 15 years. In some cases, patients wear their crown for more than 20 years.
No one should have to live with a severe dental cavity that causes discomfort. Here at our dental practice, we can help save your tooth and relieve the discomfort by placing a dental crown, or by using a similar restoration that is appropriate and meets your treatment needs and preferences.
Request an appointment here: https://riverfallsfamilydental.com or call River Falls Family Dental at (812) 962-7342 for an appointment in our New Albany office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges in New Albany, IN.
A dental crown can restore a damaged, worn, or weakened tooth. This restoration can bring back your healthy smile and stable dental function. Knowing the benefits of dental caps can motivate you to set an appointment soon. Here are the benefits of a dental crown that you must consider.Losing a tooth can be annoying, especially…
Whether you need a root canal or have decay, your dentist may recommend you get a dental crown. However, you might be wondering what a dental crown is. A crown can restore the appearance and function of your natural tooth. It is a way of saving your tooth, which can be preferable to getting an…
A tooth with significant damage will need a dental crowns or cap. This restoration can restore the form and function of your tooth. Getting a large filling or a root canal will need a cap to protect and strengthen the tooth. If you want to know how a dentist will use a dental crown to…
A dental crown is one of the most versatile restorations used in dentistry. It serves cosmetic and restorative purposes, and it is used as a long-term solution for a variety of dental issues like broken, deformed, or decayed teeth. Crowns are designed to look just like real teeth, making it virtually impossible to notice them…
Dentures are a well-known option for replacing missing teeth that are often given a bad reputation in their reliability. We have all watched the childhood film, where the elderly character has their dentures fall out of their mouth at the dinner table. While this exaggerated age-old misconception is based on legitimate concerns of denture wearing,…
There are several options for replacing missing teeth, and the treatment that is best for you will depend on factors like lifestyle, budget, and dental health. A professional dentist can help you determine what option is appropriate for you.Options for replacing missing teeth include:Tooth-supported or implant-supported bridgesPartial or complete denturesDental implantsThese options for replacing missing…