Why Do Some People Get Crowns on Their Teeth?

Teeth go through a lot—chewing, biting, grinding, and sometimes, unexpected accidents. Over time, they can weaken, crack, or decay. That’s where dental crowns in Colonia, NJ, come in. These protective caps restore strength, function, and aesthetics, keeping your smile intact. Whether it’s to fix a damaged tooth or enhance appearance, crowns play a crucial role in dental health.

What Is a Dental Crown?

Think of a dental crown as a helmet for your tooth—it protects, strengthens, and improves the overall appearance of a damaged or weakened tooth. Dentists recommend crowns when a tooth has extensive decay, cracks, or structural loss that a simple filling can’t address.

How Does a Crown Work?

A crown fully encases the noticeable part of the tooth, acting as a shield against further damage. Unlike fillings, which treat small cavities, crowns restore function and appearance, allowing you to chew, bite, and smile confidently.

Different Types of Dental Crowns

Crowns come in various materials, each offering different benefits:

• Porcelain: Best for front teeth, blends seamlessly with natural enamel.
• Metal (Gold or Silver): Extremely durable, ideal for molars.
• Zirconia: A strong, tooth-colored option that balances durability and aesthetics.

Common Reasons for Getting a Dental Crown

1. Tooth Decay and Damage

Cavities don’t just stop at fillings. If decay reaches a point where too much tooth structure is lost, a crown becomes necessary. Large fillings can make teeth weak and prone to breaking, but a crown offers complete coverage and protection.

Key Fact: Severe decay can spread, affecting neighboring teeth. Crowning a compromised tooth prevents further complications and preserves oral health.

2. After a Root Canal Treatment

Root canals remove infection from inside a tooth, but the process leaves the tooth brittle and fragile. Without a nerve to keep it nourished, it becomes more susceptible to cracking.

A crown acts as a reinforcement, keeping the treated tooth functional for years.

Why is a crown necessary after a root canal?

A tooth with a root canal has a higher risk of fracturing, especially molars, which endure strong chewing forces. Crowning them ensures long-term durability.

3. Cracked or Broken Teeth

Ever bitten into something unexpectedly hard? Cracks can develop from accidental injuries, nighttime grinding (bruxism), or wear and tear. Left untreated, these cracks may worsen, leading to pain, infection, or tooth loss.

A tooth cap protects against further breakage while restoring normal function.

How to tell if a crack needs a crown:

• Sudden pain when biting
• Visible fractures on the surface
• Sensitivity to hot or cold

If you notice these signs, a dentist can determine whether a crown is the best solution.

4. Cosmetic Enhancements

Crowns aren’t just for damage—they’re also used for cosmetic reasons. If you have a misshapen, discolored, or uneven tooth, a crown can improve its size, shape, and shade.

Veneers vs. Crowns:

• Veneers only cover the front surface and are for minor adjustments.
• Crowns cover the entire tooth, making them ideal for more extensive cosmetic changes.

If a tooth is severely worn down or discolored beyond whitening, a crown offers a permanent and natural-looking solution.

5. Supporting a Dental Bridge

When a tooth is missing, a dental bridge can fill the space. But bridges need support—and that’s where crowns come in. They anchor the bridge in place, using neighboring teeth as support.

Why bridges need crowns:

• They keep surrounding teeth from shifting into empty spaces.
• They help maintain a balanced bite and prevent jaw pain.

If you’re considering a bridge, your dentist will assess whether the adjacent teeth are strong enough to hold crowns for support.

The Process of Getting a Dental Crown

Getting a dental crown near you typically requires two visits. During the first visit, the tooth is prepared, and impressions are taken. A custom crown is then crafted and placed during the second visit.

Step 1: Tooth Preparation

• The dentist removes decay and reshapes the tooth to fit the crown.
• If the tooth is extremely damaged, a build-up material may be added for support.

Step 2: Taking Impressions

• A digital scan or traditional mold is taken to create a precise fit.
• A temporary crown is settled while the final one is fabricated in a lab.

Step 3: Crown Placement

• The dentist removes the temporary crown.
• The permanent crown is adjusted for a perfect fit and cemented into place.

How to Care for a Dental Crown

Crowns are durable, but they require proper care to last 10-15 years or more.

Daily Care Routine

✔ Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.

✔ Floss gently around the crown to prevent plaque buildup.

✔ Avoid sticky, hard foods like caramel, ice, and popcorn kernels.

Signs You May Need a Replacement

🚨 The crown feels loose or wobbly.

🚨 Visible chips, cracks, or discoloration.

🚨 Pain or sensitivity when biting.

If you notice any of these, visit your dentist to avoid further damage.

Final Thoughts

A dental crown near you isn’t just about fixing a tooth—it’s about protecting, strengthening, and enhancing your smile. Whether it’s for decay, cosmetic reasons, or post-root canal care, crowns play an essential role in long-term oral health.

If you think a crown might be right for you, Colonia Dental Associates can help you explore your options and keep your smile strong.