5 Signs You Might Need a Dental Crown
Being told that you might need a dental crown can naturally lead to questions. Some patients imagine a complicated or painful process, but in reality, crowns are one of the most common and effective ways we restore and protect damaged teeth.
Think of a crown like a protective cover or “helmet” that fits over your natural tooth. It restores your tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance—and can prevent further damage, discomfort, and even tooth loss.
So how do you know if a crown might be the right solution? Let’s go over five key signs that your tooth could benefit from a crown, and what the process looks like from start to finish.
1. You Have a Large Cavity That’s Too Big for a Filling
If a cavity has damaged more than half of your tooth, a filling may not be enough. While fillings are great for small to medium areas of decay, large cavities can weaken the tooth structure, making it more prone to fractures. A dental crown completely caps the tooth, giving it the strength to handle chewing forces again and preventing further decay or breakage.
2. You’ve Cracked or Broken a Tooth
Whether it’s from biting down on something hard, clenching your jaw, or a past injury, a cracked tooth needs attention—fast. If the crack doesn’t extend below the gumline or into the root, we can often save the tooth with a crown. The crown holds the tooth together and shields it from bacteria and pressure that could make the crack worse.
Pro tip: If you notice sharp pain when biting down, especially on one side, it might be a sign of a cracked tooth.
3. You’ve Had a Root Canal
Once a tooth has had a root canal, it no longer has a blood supply. That makes it more brittle and likely to fracture, especially the back molars which take most of the chewing pressure. We almost always recommend placing a crown on a root canal-treated tooth to restore strength, shape, and function. Front teeth may be an exception, depending on the location and bite force.
4. You’re Dealing with Tooth Wear or Erosion
Years of teeth grinding (bruxism), acid erosion from GERD or acidic foods, or general wear and tear can take a toll on your enamel. Crowns can rebuild worn teeth to their natural size and function, helping restore your bite, protect the inner layers of your teeth, and reduce sensitivity. In cases of severe wear, we may place multiple crowns to restore your full bite in a procedure known as a full-mouth rehabilitation.
5. You’re Experiencing Tooth Sensitivity or Pain
If you’re feeling sharp or lingering pain while eating hot, cold, or sweet foods—or pressure while chewing—it could mean your tooth is compromised. This might be due to deep decay, small fractures, or enamel loss. A crown can seal the tooth, reduce sensitivity, and protect the inner pulp from further irritation or infection.
What’s the Dental Crown Process Like?
At Columbine Smiles, we make the process as easy and comfortable as possible:
- Exam & Diagnosis: We’ll take digital X-rays and perform a thorough exam to determine if a crown is necessary.
- Tooth Preparation: We gently reshape the tooth to make room for the crown. This is done under local anesthetic so you won’t feel a thing.
- Impressions or Scanning: We take a digital scan or impression to ensure a perfect fit.
- Crown Placement: Depending on your case, we may provide a temporary crown while the permanent one is being custom-made. In some cases, we offer same-day crowns with advanced technology.
- Final Fit: Once your permanent crown is ready, we bond it securely in place. You’ll be able to eat, smile, and speak with confidence.
FAQs About Dental Crowns
Do dental crowns hurt?
Not at all. The procedure is done with local anesthetic, so you won’t feel any pain. You may have minor soreness for a day or two afterward, but most patients return to normal activities right away.
How long does a crown last?
With proper care, a dental crown can last 10–15 years or more. Good oral hygiene and regular checkups help extend its life.
Are crowns made of metal?
Crowns can be made of various materials including porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, or porcelain fused to metal. We usually recommend tooth-colored materials for a natural look—especially for front teeth.
Can I eat normally with a crown?
Absolutely. Once your permanent crown is in place, you can eat normally—though we recommend avoiding hard candies or chewing on ice to protect the crown (and your natural teeth, too).
Will my crown look natural?
Yes! We use high-quality materials and custom shade-matching so your crown blends seamlessly with your other teeth.
Let’s Talk About Your Smile
If you’re experiencing any of the signs above—or just want a second opinion—we’d love to help. At Columbine Smiles in Littleton, CO we combine expert care with a gentle, personalized approach to help you feel confident and comfortable every step of the way.
