Indication for Full Coverage Crowns
Dental crowns are a common treatment for a number of dental issues. A dental crown works to ensure function and stability for a tooth that may otherwise have to be extracted. Crowns are often used to restore a tooth that has been treated with root canal therapy, helping maintain the integrity of the tooth as it becomes brittle over time.
When a tooth is damaged and needs a crown, a very small amount of enamel is removed from each surface of the tooth to allow room for the crown to fit snugly in place. It protects the outer layer of a tooth, essentially acting as the enamel.
Indication for Full Coverage Crowns
Extensive Decay
Tooth decay (cavities) can cause tooth sensitivity and pain and will only get worse over time. Sometimes decay can be removed and repaired with a composite filling but if the cavity is very large or deep, the only treatment option may be a crown because a lot of tooth structure will need to be removed to make the tooth healthy. The crown will serve to strengthen the tooth and protect the area from further damage.
Root Canal Therapy
As we mentioned briefly before, crowns are used to restore root canal treated teeth. Root canal therapy is a treatment that can save an otherwise hopeless tooth and allow the patient to keep their natural teeth as long as possible. During a root canal, a small access hole is drilled into the tooth so the doctor is able to clean out the infected pulp in each canal, effectively getting the patient out of pain.
While a root canal can save a tooth, it also leads to significant brittleness overtime. The pulp is where the nerves and blood flow to the tooth are housed. The loss of blood flow makes the tooth brittle and susceptible to fracture. A dental crown is usually placed after a tooth has root canal treatment to ensure the integrity of the tooth and to keep it strong, reducing the risk of fracture.
Broken or Fractured Teeth
When a tooth is damaged from trauma or decay, the tooth can crack which can be very painful and cause discomfort when eating or sleeping. Additionally, teeth that are compromised by old dental work are more susceptible to fracture. Bacteria and debris can get into the inner part of the tooth through the fracture and cause an infection in the pulp at which point the only treatment is root canal therapy.
A dental crown will protect the underlying layers from sensitivity and infection. However, if a crack in the tooth extends beyond the gum line, the tooth may need to be extracted. Your dentist will be able to identify fractures and provide the appropriate treatment.
Another indication that you might need a new crow is decay under an existing crown. The existing crown will need to be taken off in order to remove the decay before a new crown is placed.
Full coverage crowns are a versatile dental restoration that are safe, durable, and natural-looking. If you have any of the problems discussed above, see your dentist to know if you might benefit from a full coverage crown.