Decayed, chipped, or missing teeth don’t have to keep you from achieving an award-winning smile. When a filling or veneer is inadequate, a dental crown may be an alternate solution to your smile. Dental crowns are a permanent covering for your tooth that can make your tooth stronger and aesthetically pleasing. Read on to discover some of the benefits and disadvantages of dental crowns!
The Pros
- Alleviates Pain. A decaying tooth or a tooth that has suffered trauma can be quite painful! A dental crown can alleviate the symptoms of inflammation, sensitivity on the tooth and surrounding teeth, and general toothache.
- Balancing Your Bite. A balanced bite isn’t just important to your oral health, but for your digestive health as well. Malocclusion can negatively affect your ability to chew properly, which can lead to improper nutritional intake and poor health. Of course, the aesthetic benefit of aligned teeth is a pretty good reward of crowns, as well!
- Protection that Lasts. Crowns last much longer than most other dental treatments! This can greatly benefit your teeth by preventing further damage due to deterioration or decay.
- Teeth Whitening. Typically, dentists use porcelain or ceramic to build your crowns. Not only can these materials whiten a tooth that was stained, but they are stain resistant to prevent discoloration as you age. Who doesn’t want a gleaming white smile?
- Perfects Those Imperfections. We’ve already mentioned that dental crowns can fix a damaged, chipped, or cracked tooth, but in some cases, it can go above and beyond. Your dentist may even be able to address other aesthetic and/or physical issues, such as spacing or shape.
The Cons
- Cost. One disadvantage of crowns can be the cost. Though the cost will depend on many different factors, including the type of crown and procedures involved, the average cost is around $1000. Each person’s mouth is different, so it will depend on your needs. However, insurance can often help. Your provider and policy can give further insight into what is and isn’t covered regarding dental crowns.
- Risk for Nerve Damage. There is a possibility of nerve damage if a tooth is filed too thin. In this case, root canal therapy is an option, or in worst cases, complete nerve removal may need to be done. Your dentist will always do a thorough check to determine that your tooth can support the crown before filing, though.
- Sensitivity. Dental crowns can also be destructive to other teeth if the crown is too abrasive. It may wear on surrounding or opposing teeth, leading to sensitivity or even damage. Make sure to tell your dentist if there is any pain or discomfort surrounding your crown right away!
- Potential Need for Further Repairs. In the unlikely event that a crown is not placed properly, other problems are possible, such as decay, TMJ, or infection. If you feel any discomfort with your crown, be sure to address the issue with your dentist straight away!
You can reduce all of these risks by choosing to work with an experienced dental professional and following your dentist’s follow-up care plan!
Visit Anew Dental & Orthodontics in Plainfield to meet with a qualified cosmetic dentist in Plainfield you can trust to discuss any dental crown questions you may have. Our dental services cover a wide range of treatments, ensuring your oral health and aesthetic concerns are addressed with expertise and care.