If you're dealing with a damaged tooth, you may be considering a dental crown to help restore it. But what if there isn't enough tooth to hold a crown in place? This is a common problem many people face and can be quite daunting. In this blog post, we'll explore what to do when there isn't enough tooth for a crown and discuss alternatives to traditional crowns that can help you restore your smile.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a dental restoration that completely encases a tooth. It's used to restore and protect a damaged, decayed, or broken tooth. Crowns fit over the entire visible surface of the tooth, offering protection and support to the underlying tooth structure. Crowns can also be used cosmetically to fix the appearance of a misshaped or discolored tooth. They are cemented into place by your dentist and can last up to fifteen years or more with proper care.
How Much Tooth Do You Need for a Crown?
When preparing for a dental crown, your dentist must have enough tooth structure to support the crown. Generally, dentists need at least one-quarter, or around 2 millimeters, of sound tooth structure above and below the gum line in order to properly place the crown. Your dentist will remove any remaining decay or damage and preserve the healthy tooth structure. Depending on the size and shape of the damaged tooth, it may require additional tooth structure to be removed for the crown to fit properly.
Tooth decay, trauma, or aging can all cause the existing tooth to be too weak or too short to support a crown. Additionally, if the tooth is broken off at the gum line, fractures, or splits, you will most likely need another form of treatment. Without enough sound tooth structure, your dentist may be unable to place a crown.
What Are the Options if There Is Not Enough Tooth for a Crown?
If insufficient tooth structure is left to place a crown, the dentist may consider dental implants. Implants are titanium posts placed into the jawbone that act as an artificial root for the crown. They provide a strong and stable foundation for the crown, allowing it to be used like natural teeth. Dental implants also help preserve the integrity of the jawbone, preventing it from shrinking and deteriorating due to lack of stimulation. Implants may be an ideal solution for patients with limited bone density or those who don't have enough tooth left to support a traditional crown. While more expensive than a regular crown, dental implants are considered to be a long-term solution with a very high success rate.
Dental Crowns in Coral Springs, FL
At Dental Wellness Team, our team of experienced dentists is highly experienced in placing dental crowns and providing a range of restorative dental services to patients throughout Coral Springs. Our dentists will assess your dental needs and provide you with the most suitable treatment plan for a damaged tooth. Contact us today to learn more about our dental services by calling (954) 796-3355 or request an appointment online.