Benefits of Dental Crowns

How Do You Know if Dental Crowns are Best for You?

Are you considering dental crowns to enhance your smile or address dental issues? Our Seattle dentists understand the importance of making an informed decision when it comes to your dental health. Living in Seattle, Queen Anne, or Ballard? Smile with confidence—schedule your next dental appointment with us at (206) 682-3888!

Table of Contents

Explore the benefits of dental crowns, along with some of their disadvantages. Whether you’re seeking cosmetic improvement or restorative treatment, understanding dental crowns is crucial before proceeding with the dental procedure.

woman sitting in the dental chair and smiling

Enhanced Aesthetics

One of the primary benefits of dental crowns is their ability to enhance the aesthetics of your smile. Dental crowns can provide a natural-looking solution if you have discolored, misshapen, or severely decayed teeth. Our dentists will ensure that your dental crowns perfectly match the color and shape of your natural teeth, resulting in a seamless and beautiful smile.

Increased Strength and Durability

Dental crowns are designed to strengthen and protect weakened or damaged teeth. Made from durable materials such as porcelain or metal alloys, they provide an added layer of protection, preventing further deterioration. Encasing the affected tooth, dental crowns restore its strength, allowing you to enjoy normal chewing and biting functionality.

Versatility

Dental crowns are versatile and can address a wide range of concerns. Whether you have a cracked or broken tooth, a large filling, or a dental implant, a crown can be customized to fit your needs. There are also multiple types of dental crowns, including metal crowns and porcelain crowns.

Support for Dental Prosthetics

Dental crowns are often used to support other dental prosthetics like dental bridges and dental implants, adding to their stability and functionality.

Prevents Teeth Shifting

If you have a missing tooth, the surrounding teeth can shift to fill the gap. A crown can be used in conjunction with a dental implant or dental bridge to fill the gap and prevent teeth movement.

young woman getting her teeth examined at the dentist

Disadvantages of Dental Crowns

Sensitivity

After the placement of a dental crown, some individuals may experience temporary sensitivity to hot or cold substances. This sensitivity typically subsides within a few weeks as the tooth adjusts to the permanent crown. Drs. Johnson and Tram will guide you through managing any discomfort during the adjustment period.

Risk of Decay

Although dental crowns are designed to protect teeth from further decay, there’s still a risk of tooth decay at the crown’s margin, where it meets the natural tooth. Maintain good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups to our Seattle dental office, to prevent any potential decay around the crown.

Removal of Natural Tooth Structure

To accommodate a dental crown, a portion of the natural tooth structure must be removed. This irreversible process means the tooth will always require a crown to maintain its strength and appearance. We’ll evaluate your dental situation and discuss the necessity of removing natural tooth structure before proceeding.

When to Consider an Alternative Treatment

While dental crowns offer many cosmetic benefits, they may not always be the most suitable treatment option. Here are a few instances where alternative treatments may be considered:

Minor tooth damage
Orthodontic needs
Cost
Tooth loss

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, food particles can get stuck under a crown. While a properly fitted crown should create a seal around the underlying tooth, it’s still possible for small food particles to become trapped between the crown and the tooth, leading to discomfort or gum irritation. Regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash can help remove any trapped food debris.

There are situations where a tooth may not be suitable for a dental crown. Some of these instances include:

Insufficient tooth structure
Severe gum disease
Tooth mobility
Inadequate bite alignment

Crowns can withstand the forces of chewing and biting more effectively, helping protect and preserve the underlying tooth. Your dentist will consider factors such as the location of the tooth, the amount of remaining tooth structure, and your individual needs when determining whether a crown or filling is the most appropriate treatment option for you.

Make an Informed Decision About Your Oral Health

Now that you know more about the benefits of dental crowns, are you ready to schedule your appointment? Our Downtown Seattle dentists are here to help you determine which dental restoration best meets your smile goals.

Contact our Seattle dental office at (206) 682-3888 to schedule your appointment today.

What Our Happy Patients Are Saying

“I just wanted to thank you for the truly exceptional service. I really appreciate you all making yourself available to me last minute to address my pain with your office’s positive and friendly atmosphere and the apparent team-oriented dynamic. It is refreshing to be treated by a staff that seems to really and sincerely enjoy their profession, clients, and the company of their own co-workers. Thank you again for going above and beyond the standard. It really made me feel like a valued client. I’m so impressed with everything I’ve been talking about your service to all my co-workers!”

— Cameron, Seattle

“I have been a patient of Dr. Johnsons for the last three years after my long-time dentist retired. I immediately noticed a superior level of care. The front office staff are super. The hygienists are very thorough. Dr. Johnson is very detail oriented and well educated in the latest dental findings. I would recommend the team to anyone. And they validate parking!”

— Jane

“Dear Dr. Johnson, …It has been about three years since I was in your office. I recently went to my local dentist here in Sequim. First the dental hygienist cleaned my teeth and after three years, they were plaque free. Then the dentist could find absolutely nothing wrong with my teeth and gums and just kept looking to admire the work you had done. He kept saying perfect. He was completely impressed with your work.”

— Cheryl, Sequim

“How fortunate I am to have such a warm and caring professional relationship with my dentist and his partner and staff, who are also friends. Your thoughtfulness and concerns are much appreciated.”

— Ruth, Seattle

“My husband and I wanted to thank you again for taking the time to fix his partial during our vacation. It isn’t often you come across someone that will take the time on such short notice to help out. You and everyone in the office were great!”

— Jim and Terri, Watertown

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Benefits of Dental Crowns

How Do You Know if Dental Crowns are Best for You?