How Dental Crowns Can Fix Cracked Teeth

Dental crowns are a reliable and effective tool for restoring damaged teeth. While most people think of dental crowns in relation to root canals, crowns can also restore beauty and function to cracked teeth. If you have fractured a tooth, a dental crown may be the solution you have been looking for.

How dental crowns function

A dental crown sits on top of the cracked or otherwise damaged tooth. A dentist will shape the crown like the missing part of the tooth. They can also color-match it to the surrounding teeth to ensure it blends in without an issue. Dental crowns can contain various materials, including metal, resin, porcelain, and more.

Restoring cracked teeth

Dental crowns are an effective restoration for teeth that have sustained severe cracks. A more conservative approach is preferred if the crack only impacts the outermost layer of the tooth, known as tooth enamel. However, if the crack extends into the tooth's root (the pulp chamber), it must be treated with a dental crown to prevent infection and disease.

Dental crowns are permanent restorations. However, it is common for patients to need a replacement due to general wear and tear after about five to 15 years. A damaged crown could cause pain or infection and will require replacement immediately.

The procedure

To install a dental crown on a cracked tooth, patients will need to schedule two appointments. The first is to address the natural tooth and get impressions of it; the second is to place the permanent crown. The following is what to expect during each appointment:

First appointment

During the first appointment, the dentist will evaluate and prepare the cracked tooth for its crown. They may fill in parts of the crack with dental bonding (a tooth-colored material used to fill cavities) to reinforce the remaining tooth. Next, the dentist will make a mold of the tooth, which the dental lab will use to create a custom-fitting crown. They will also place a temporary crown to ensure the patient can eat and talk easily while waiting for the permanent crown.

Second appointment

Dental labs typically take two to three weeks to create a permanent crown. The patient can then return for a second appointment to have it placed. The dentist will ensure proper fit, placement, and color shade before cementing the permanent crown in place.

Aftercare

Crowns are not only effective, but they are also easy to care for. Patients can care for them just like natural teeth — with regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings. The only difference is that patients should avoid chewing very hard or chewy foods with their crowns because it could break or dislodge them. Use the other side of the mouth to chew these foods.