Discovering a crack in your tooth can be stressful. Whether it happened while eating something crunchy or due to an old injury, a fractured tooth needs quick attention. If you are looking for dental crowns in Burnaby, understanding how this treatment works is the first step toward saving your smile. A dental crown acts as a protective cover, preventing a minor crack from becoming a lost tooth.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over the entire visible part of your tooth. Think of it as a sturdy helmet for a damaged tooth. It is designed to match the shape, size, and colour of your natural teeth. By encasing the tooth, the crown holds the structure together and prevents the crack from spreading deeper into the root.
When Do You Need a Dental Crown?
Not every tooth chip requires a full cap, but certain situations make it necessary. You might need one if:
- You feel sharp pain when biting down.
- Your tooth is sensitive to hot or cold liquids.
- A large filling has failed, leaving the tooth walls weak.
- There is a visible fracture line extending toward the gum line.
If you visit a dentist in Burnaby, they will examine the depth of the crack to see if a crown is the right solution for you.
How a Crown Saves Your Natural Tooth
The primary goal of modern dentistry is to keep your natural teeth for as long as possible. Pulling a tooth is usually a last resort. Crowns help achieve this by:
- Restoring Strength: A cracked or weakened tooth becomes fragile. A crown reinforces it by evenly distributing chewing pressure, helping prevent further damage or splitting.
- Preventing Infection: Cracks in a tooth can allow bacteria to reach the inner pulp, leading to infection. A crown seals the tooth and blocks bacteria from entering.
- Improving Appearance: Crowns are designed to match the natural look of your teeth, helping restore your smile and boost your confidence.
Comparing Treatment Options for Damaged Teeth
| Feature | Dental Filling | Dental Crown |
| Best For | Small cavities or minor chips | Large cracks or structural damage |
| Coverage | Fills a small hole | Covers the entire tooth |
| Durability | Moderate | Very High |
| Protection | Low structural support | Maximum structural support |
Finding the Right Care
When searching for dental crowns near you, it is important to choose a provider who uses high-quality materials, such as porcelain or ceramic. These materials are biocompatible and very tough. The process usually involves two visits: one to shape the tooth and make an impression, and a second to bond the permanent crown in place.
Why You Should Not Wait
Ignoring a cracked tooth can be risky. Over time, the pressure of chewing continually causes the crack to flex. This movement can eventually reach the nerve, causing an abscess or requiring a root canal. If you take a restorative procedure early on, you avoid a more complex and costly one.
Conclusion
Your smile is an important part of your health and personality. If a cracked tooth is causing you discomfort, taking action now will protect your long-term oral well-being. At Gilmore Dental, we focus on delivering durable, natural-looking results for every patient. Our team is ready to help you restore your comfort and function. If you are ready to protect your smile, please get in touch with us today to book an appointment.
FAQs:-
1. How long do dental crowns usually last?
With proper brushing and flossing, a high-quality crown can last 10 to 15 years before needing replacement.
2. Is the procedure for getting a crown painful?
The area is numbed with local anesthesia, so you should feel no pain while the tooth is being prepared.
3. Can a cracked tooth heal on its own?
No, teeth do not heal like bones. A crack will only stay the same or get worse without professional help.
4. Do dental crowns require special cleaning?
You can clean them just like natural teeth. Regular brushing and flossing are all you need to keep them healthy.
5. Will my crown look different from my other teeth?
Modern crowns are colour-matched to your surrounding teeth, making them look very natural and nearly impossible to notice.
