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A beautiful, healthy smile is something we all want. But sometimes, our teeth need a little extra help to look and function their best. Dental crowns do just that!
But when do you need a crown, and can you get one without a root canal?
In this blog, we’ll answer these questions, so you can make an informed decision about your dental health.
Yes, you can get a crown without a root canal. Crowns address damage or decay to the outer structure of the tooth, while root canals are necessary when the inner pulp is infected or damaged.
What is a Dental Crown?
Think of a dental crown as a protective cap for your tooth. It covers the entire visible portion of your tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are a common and effective solution for a variety of dental issues.
When Do You Need a Crown?
You might be surprised at how versatile crowns are. Here are some of the common reasons we recommend them:
- Tooth decay: When a cavity is too large for a filling, a crown can be used to protect and restore the remaining tooth structure.
- Broken or weakened teeth: Teeth that are cracked, chipped, or weakened by previous dental work may need a crown to prevent further damage.
- After root canal treatment: Root canal procedures remove the infected pulp from inside your tooth. A crown is often placed on the tooth to protect it and restore its strength.
- Dental implants: Crowns are the final step in the dental implant process, acting as the replacement tooth.
- Cosmetic reasons: A crown can be used to improve the appearance of a discolored, misshapen, or otherwise unattractive tooth.
Types of Dental Crowns at Morris Dental Solutions
We offer several types of crowns to suit your needs and preferences:
- Porcelain crowns: These crowns are very natural-looking and are often used for front teeth.
- Metal crowns: Metal crowns (typically made of gold or other alloys) are incredibly strong and durable. These are typically only used on children.
- Zirconia crowns: This type of crown offers the strength of metal with the natural look of porcelain, making it a versatile option.
- Same-day crowns: We also offer same-day crowns using advanced CAD/CAM software. This means you can get your crown designed, created, and placed in a single visit.
Do You Always Need a Root Canal Before a Crown?
The short answer is no. You need a root canal when the pulp inside your tooth is infected or inflamed.
If your tooth is structurally sound and the pulp is healthy, you will not need a root canal before getting a crown. For example, a crown might be needed to repair a broken tooth that doesn’t have nerve damage.
FAQs About Dental Crowns
Most crown procedures can be completed in one to three appointments. The first appointment involves preparing your tooth and taking an impression, and the second appointment is when the crown is placed. With same-day crowns, the entire process can be done in one visit. Sometimes crowns require a third visit.
Modern dental crowns are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. They are custom-made to match the shape, size, and color of your surrounding teeth, making them virtually undetectable.
Some sensitivity is completely normal after a crown procedure. This is often due to the tooth and surrounding tissues adjusting to the new restoration. This temporary discomfort typically subsides within a few days
If your temporary crown falls off, save it if possible and contact our office. We’ll schedule an appointment to re-cement it or to place your permanent crown if it’s ready.
Dental Crowns in Buffalo Grove IL
We’re committed to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. If you need a dental crown, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation. We’ll assess your individual needs and recommend the best treatment options for you.
If you are searching for ‘same day dental crowns near me’ we can help! Call (847) 215-1511 to book an appointment or complete the online inquiry form.
