Is it necessary to put a crown on a tooth: indications and alternatives

Crown — it is a way to restore teeth. It has the form of a cap that completely covers the tooth or dental implant. Once installed, the crown actually becomes the new outer surface of the tooth. The crown rests on the gumline and above it.

The dentist determines whether a crown should be placed on a tooth. However, each patient should know in which cases prosthetics are necessary, and in which alternative methods of tooth restoration can be used.

• Should put a crown: grounds for prosthetics
• Crown preferred over other tooth restoration methods
• When not to put dental crowns

Do do I need to put a crown: grounds for prosthetics

There are several reasons why a dental crown is placed on tooth.

• Restoration of a broken or cracked tooth. Placed in in cases where the deformation has occurred above the gum line, and the root has not been damaged.

• Tooth covering with large filling with composite material.If the tooth cavity is destroyed by caries and repeatedly cleaned and filled, the tooth walls become thinner and need to be reinforced with a crown.

• A crown is required to hold a dental bridge.

• Covering a dental implant or post

• Improve the appearance of the tooth

  , including color, shape, alignment.

Read also: 

Pin tooth: advantages of post prosthetics Priority of a crown over other methods of tooth restoration

There are alternative methods of tooth restoration.

Dental veneer or as it is also called porcelain veneer. These are thin shells that cover the front of the tooth. They are stained to match the color of the teeth and are easily connected to the surface. The purpose of such a restoration — cosmetic. Porcelain veneer changes the length, size, shape and color of natural teeth, improving their appearance.

Read also: 

Veneer installation: what you need to know about the procedure and results

• Tooth bonding.

  The composite material is applied in a thin layer to the tooth, mimicking the color and appearance of tooth enamel. This method is used to correct minor defects in the tooth.

• Filling gaps between teeth.

  Dentists use the term "diastema" to indicate the gap between two front teeth. From a function and dental health point of view, these gaps do not pose a problem. But in terms of cosmetic appearance, some people find them unattractive. The principle of correction is to place the dental composite on the sides of the teeth. In this way, each tooth becomes a little wider, the space is filled.

However, no other dental restoration provides the same set of benefits as crowning. It is installed not to improve the appearance of the tooth, but to strengthen and restore functionality. Quality crowns last 15 and years.

When not to put dental crowns

While there are no strict limitations in prosthetics, there are some things to consider. Crowns are not recommended if any of the following factors occur:

age 17 — 18 y.o.,
pregnancy;
oral disease;
diseases of the jaw bone;
chronic diseases in the stage of exacerbation;
after radiotherapy;
anesthetic intolerance;
pathological bite.
All of these reasons are temporary. After eliminating them, you can start prosthetics.

Whether to get a crown: the choice is you 

If the tooth is so damaged that it cannot be treated, does not perform chewing functions, then the best way to restore it — put a crown. If you just want to improve the aesthetics, use alternative methods.

Read also: 

Modern dentistry: how to choose the right clinic?

You might be wondering: How do you deal with imperfections in your appearance? Watch the video!