Few treatments are as versatile and long-lasting as dental crowns when it comes to restoring and preserving damaged teeth. Whether you’re dealing with a cracked tooth, a large cavity, or a worn-down molar, a crown can help protect and strengthen the tooth for years. But if your dentist recently recommended one, you may wonder, “Why do I need a crown?” or “What does the process involve?”
This article breaks down everything you need to know about dental crowns—from materials and uses to benefits and expectations—so you can make an informed decision about your oral health. If you’re considering restorative care or already have a treatment plan, Family Dental Missoula is here to provide clarity, precision, and care every step of the way.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made, tooth-shaped cap that fits over a natural tooth or dental implant. Its primary purpose is to restore the tooth’s shape, strength, and function, especially after it’s been weakened by trauma, decay, or extensive dental work.
Crowns are typically made from porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, metal alloys, or a combination (e.g., porcelain fused to metal). Each type offers specific advantages in durability, aesthetics, or biocompatibility.
Crowns fully encase the visible portion of the tooth above the gum line and are permanently cemented in place. They are often recommended after root canals, large fillings, or significant enamel loss.
Why Do I Need a Crown?
“Why do I need a crown?” is often heard at Family Dental Missoula, and the answer varies based on individual dental history. A crown may be necessary to:
1. Restore a Damaged or Fractured Tooth
If a tooth has suffered structural damage due to trauma or wear (such as from grinding), a crown can prevent it from breaking further. Unlike fillings, which patch the damage, crowns provide complete coverage protection, distributing chewing forces more evenly.
2. Rebuild a Tooth with a Large Cavity
When decay compromises a significant portion of a tooth, there may not be enough healthy structure to support a filling. In this case, a crown reinforces the tooth and reduces the fracture risk.
3. Protect a Tooth After a Root Canal
Root canal therapy removes infected pulp inside the tooth, leaving it more brittle and vulnerable. A crown seals and reinforces the treated tooth, helping prevent cracks or reinfection.
4. Cover a Misshapen or Discolored Tooth
Cosmetic concerns—like severe discoloration or malformation—can also be addressed with crowns. For front teeth, porcelain or ceramic crowns offer a natural-looking solution.
5. Support a Dental Bridge
Crowns anchor dental bridges by being placed on adjacent healthy teeth. They provide stability for replacing one or more missing teeth.
6. Top a Dental Implant
When a tooth is missing, an implant acts as the root replacement, and a crown is attached to complete the restoration. The result is a functional and aesthetically pleasing replacement that mimics the look and feel of a natural tooth.
How the Dental Crown Process Works
At Family Dental Missoula, crown placement typically involves two appointments, unless same-day crowns (CEREC) are offered. Here’s a step-by-step overview:
Appointment 1: Tooth Preparation and Impressions
Evaluation – The dentist examines the tooth and takes X-rays to assess its health and structure.
Preparation – A small amount of enamel is removed to make room for the crown. If too much of the tooth is missing, a core build-up may be placed to provide a stable base.
Impressions—A digital scan or putty mold is made to capture the shape of your tooth. This information is used to design the crown for a precise fit.
Temporary Crown – A temporary crown is placed to protect your tooth until the permanent one is ready (usually 1–2 weeks).
Appointment 2: Crown Placement
Temporary Crown Removal – The temporary crown is carefully removed.
Fit Check – The permanent crown is checked for shape, bite, and appearance accuracy.
Cementation – Once approved, the crown is cemented and polished onto your tooth.
Types of Dental Crowns and Materials
Each material has its pros and cons. Your dentist will recommend the most appropriate option based on your tooth location, personal needs, and aesthetic preferences.
Porcelain/Ceramic – Best for front teeth. Natural appearance, color-matched. Less durable for molars.
Zirconia – Best for molars or high-pressure areas. Strong, metal-free. Can be abrasive to opposing teeth.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal—This material is used for bridges or back teeth. It combines strength and aesthetics, but it may show a metal edge over time.
Gold Alloys – Best for back teeth. Extremely durable and gentle on opposing teeth. Highly visible.
Composite Resin – Used for temporary crowns. Inexpensive but less durable in the long term.
Are Dental Crowns Durable?
Yes, when properly cared for, dental crowns can last between 10 and 15 years—and in some cases, even longer. According to a study in the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, the 10-year survival rate of porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns is around 95%, while all-ceramic crowns are improving in longevity due to advances in materials like zirconia.
Key factors that affect crown longevity include:
- Oral hygiene habits
- Diet (avoid excessive hard foods or sticky candy)
- Bruxism (grinding/clenching)
- Gum health and supporting bone structure
- Type of material used
If you grind your teeth at night, our dentist may recommend a custom night guard to protect your new crown from undue pressure.
What Happens If I Don’t Get a Crown?
Delaying or refusing a recommended crown can put your tooth at risk. Depending on the condition of the tooth, you may experience:
- Progressive cracking or total fracture
- Recurrent decay under large fillings
- Pain and sensitivity
- Infection requiring root canal or extraction
- Compromised bite and function
A cracked or weakened tooth won’t heal on its own. The longer treatment is postponed, the more complex and costly the outcome may become. That’s why we encourage patients at Family Dental Missoula to act early when a crown is advised.
Cost of a Dental Crown
The cost of a dental crown can vary based on several factors, including material, location, and whether the procedure is part of a more comprehensive treatment plan.
Average cost ranges (U.S.):
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal: $800–$1,400
- All-ceramic or zirconia: $1,000–$1,600
- Gold crowns: $1,200–$2,500
Most dental insurance plans cover 50% or more of the cost of a crown when deemed medically necessary. Family Dental Missoula offers transparent pricing and works with a wide range of insurance providers to ensure affordability. Financing options may also be available for out-of-pocket costs.
Caring for Your Dental Crown
Crowns are low-maintenance but require good hygiene and regular dental visits to maximize their lifespan.
Tips for Crown Care:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to prevent decay near the gumline
- Avoid chewing ice or biting your nails
- Wear a night guard if you clench or grind your teeth
- Visit your dentist every 6 months for exams and cleanings
Regular exams allow your dentist to monitor the integrity of your crown and surrounding gum tissue. If issues are spotted early, like marginal gaps or wear, they can be addressed before compromising the crown.
Final Thoughts: Trust Your Smile to Family Dental Missoula
If you’ve been told you need a crown, it’s not just a cosmetic upgrade—it’s a functional investment in your tooth’s longevity. Understanding why I need a crown can help you make informed decisions about your care and avoid unnecessary complications.
At Family Dental Missoula, we take a conservative, personalized approach to treatment. We only recommend dental crowns when necessary to preserve oral health and quality of life. From modern imaging to advanced materials, we ensure that each restoration is built to last and made to look great.
If you suspect you might need a crown or want a second opinion, contact Family Dental Missoula today. We’re here to protect your teeth, restore your confidence, and help you maintain a strong, healthy smile for life.
Sources:
- American Dental Association (ADA) – “Dental Crowns: Patient Guide”
- Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry – “Long-term Clinical Performance of Crown Materials”
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research – “Tooth Restoration Facts”
- American Association of Endodontists (AAE) – “Post-Root Canal Crown Placement”
