QUESTION: What is a Dental Crown and do I need one?
ANSWER:
A crown is a cap that is placed on top of your natural tooth as part of a dental restoration. This is different from a filling which is another type of restoration that fills in or covers a portion of a tooth. Whether or not you need a crown will depend on your unique situation.
Generally speaking, a crown is used when a large portion of your tooth is missing either due to an accident or decay. Even though the tooth can be built up using various materials, the strength of the tooth may be greatly enhanced by placing a crown on it. Tooth strengthening with a crown may also be done after a root canal as well. Another situation where a tooth crown is used is with implants or for cosmetic reasons since it can be made to look in specific ways.
These are all situations when a dental crown would be used. Ultimately you will have to discuss your situation with your dentist and together come up with an appropriate treatment plan which may include a crown and/or some other form of restoration.
If you have any questions about this or any of my previous articles, then feel free to email me at ask@stoneycreekdental.ca.
