Need a Crown? What Happens If You Don’t Get One?
Dental crowns in San Diego are necessary for a variety of oral health situations. At Dental Express, we use them to restore the function and appearance of a tooth. A dental crown is often the best option to extend the life of a tooth. Our team can evaluate all of the options available before recommending a crown to our patients. During a dental exam, we can examine your teeth and gums to make treatment recommendations, such as dental crowns.
What does a dental crown do?
A crown is a cap or covering for a tooth that is custom-made to match surrounding teeth. At Dental Express in San Diego, CA, we use crowns to protect worn-down or damaged teeth, restore a cracked tooth, cover stains or discoloration, or treat tooth decay. We offer crowns in porcelain, metal, and metal covered with porcelain. Our team uses porcelain crowns for front teeth since they look the most natural. We also offer an implant-retained crown for a more durable treatment option.
What should I ask a dentist before getting a crown?
At your visit to Dental Express, you can ask our dentist questions to decide if a dental crown is best for you, including:
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When are dental crowns necessary? Ultimately, crowns can be used for different oral health situations to strengthen or restore a tooth.
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Do I need a root canal therapy anterior before getting a dental crown? Not always. We will take X-rays to look at the root of the tooth to determine if it is infected or diseased.
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Does an old metal filling mean I need a crown? If your filling is 2/3 of the width of the tooth or more, yes, you do. The small amount of tooth left is compromised without the filling. To prevent it from cracking, get a dental crown.
What happens if I wait to get a dental crown?
This depends on your situation. For damaged teeth, the chipped tooth or crack more. In some cases, waiting may lead to the need for a root canal before the dental crown procedure. Some worn-down teeth may split, which may require crown lengthening or extraction. At Dental Express, we never recommend our patients in San Diego, CA, delay any dental care.
What to expect after getting a dental crown?
Most patients can continue with their daily activities unless sedation is used. We will discuss the best way to care for your crown from home. During an exam, we will look at your crown and adjust its fit for comfort. With good care, Dental crowns should last 10 – 15 years.
Learn how dental crowns can restore your oral health
A damaged tooth can be repaired with a custom dental crown at Dental Express in San Diego, CA. During a consultation, we can evaluate your teeth and gums to determine if you’re a candidate for a crown. We also can discuss any insurance coverage or affordable payment plans we offer. To keep your smile looking its best, learn more about crowns today by calling our dental office for an appointment.