Modern dentistry has numerous options to improve the appearance of your teeth and prevent tooth decay. Dental crowns are common restorative solutions. The procedure involves putting a cap over your natural tooth or pre-existing dental implant to maintain your jaw structure and stop further damage. Crowns are generally made from hard materials such as porcelain or ceramic, as these match the natural color of teeth the best. While crowns can be made from gold, resin, and stainless steel as well, at Definitive Dental, we only use metal-free materials that help you achieve a natural-looking smile.
Is getting a dental crown worth it? The answer depends on your overall oral health and the extent of the problem you’re looking to address. Here are the major advantages and disadvantages of a dental crown.
The Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns improve the overall appearance of your smile and the function of your bite. Crowns can also correct many cosmetic issues, leading crown placement to be one of the more common dental procedures throughout the United States. Advantages include:
- Replacing large or worn-out fillings in the teeth
- Restoring the structural integrity of dental implants
- Covering cracked, injured, or damaged teeth
- Correcting discoloration or alignment
- Reshaping your teeth
- Preventing cracked or damaged teeth from further breaking down
- Protecting the original tooth after a root canal
Crowns are highly durable. They are designed to last for at least 5-10 years, but, with proper care, they can last up to 20 years.
The Drawbacks of Dental Crowns
Similar to most restorative dental procedures, dental crowns also have certain disadvantages that patients should be aware of. In order to fit the crown, the dentist may need to file down your existing tooth. Many patients experience some discomfort or heightened sensitivity to hot and cold foods for a few weeks or months after the procedure. Our office typically recommends sensitive toothpaste to help with this issue.
With regular checkups and proper care at home, the chances of further tooth decay are low. A dental crown, however, does not completely dismiss the chance of further decay. If your crown ever feels loose or becomes chipped, it’s important to visit the dentist as soon as possible. Leaving a damaged crown untreated can cause further complications later down the line.
A Quick Summary: Dental Crown Pros vs. Cons
Pros
- Restore cracked or damaged teeth
- Correct discoloration or alignment
- Replace worn-out fillings before they break
- Restore dental implants
- Prevent tooth breakage after a root canal
Cons
- May need to be repaired or replaced
- Requires minor tooth reduction
- Heightened sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages for a few weeks or months
Get an Expert Consultation
Is it worth getting a dental crown? Overall, dental crowns have several benefits and give patients a beautiful, natural smile. Understanding the pros and cons of dental crowns can help you make an informed decision.
For more information about dental crowns in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area, reach out to Definitive Dental. Whether you’re an existing patient or visiting us for the first time, we’ll review your oral health history and fully explain the pros and cons of your restorative options.
When you fill out our form, our team will be in touch within one business day. Alternatively, you can give us a call at (972) 646-0660. Contact us today to book an appointment!
