When it comes to restoring damaged or weakened teeth, dental crowns are one of the most effective and long-lasting treatments available. But many patients don’t know if the treatment is right for their particular condition or dental issue.
In this article, we explain exactly when and how tooth crowns can be used, helping you understand your treatment options before deciding whether a crown is right for you.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers the visible part of a tooth above the gum line. It restores the tooth’s shape, strength and appearance when it has been damaged by decay, trauma or large fillings.
Crowns protect weakened teeth from further damage and restore normal function. They also improve the look of teeth that are discoloured or uneven.
They’re typically made from porcelain, zirconia or metal alloys, with porcelain and zirconia offering a natural, tooth-like finish, and metal providing extra durability for back teeth.
When Is a Crown Needed?
Your dentist might recommend a tooth crown in order to:
- Protect a weak or cracked tooth from further damage
- Restore a broken or worn-down tooth
- Cover a tooth with a large filling
- Support a tooth after root canal treatment
- Improve the look of discoloured or misshapen teeth
- Cover a dental implant
Crowns not only restore function, allowing you to talk and eat pain-free, but also protect the tooth underneath which helps you maintain your long-term oral health.
When Can a Tooth Crown be Added?
Can You Put a Crown on a Dead Tooth?
Crowning a dead tooth is very common.
A ‘dead tooth’ is weaker a more likely to fracture, since it has lost its blood supply (typically following trauma or infection). After a root canal treatment, your dentist will often recommend a crown to reinforce the tooth and prevent it from breaking.
This treatment will help preserve your natural tooth structure for years to come.
Can You Put a Crown on a Half Tooth?
This can be done, as long as there’s enough healthy structure left to support it.
If the damage is extensive, your dentist might first build up the tooth with a core filling or a post and core before fitting the crown. This ensures the restoration is secure and stable.
Can You Put a Crown on a Loose Tooth?
It is generally not recommended to attach a crown to a loose tooth. Instead, the cause of the looseness is addressed and treated first.
A loose tooth often indicates problems with the supporting bone or gums, such as periodontal disease. Placing a crown on an unstable tooth would not solve the underlying issue and could lead to further movement or loss.
Your dentist will first stabilise the tooth through gum treatment or splinting, and only once the tooth is secure might a crown be considered as part of the restoration.
Can You Put a Crown on a Missing Tooth?
Not directly, as a crown needs a natural tooth or implant to sit on.
If the original tooth is missing completely, your options are either a dental implant (onto which a crown is fitted) or a dental bridge, which uses neighbouring teeth for support. Both cosmetic solutions restore the appearance and function of a natural tooth, and your dentist will advise which is best for your situation.
Can You Put a Crown on a Tooth with a Large Filling?
Yes – and in many cases, this is the best option.
When a tooth has a large filling, the remaining enamel and dentine can be thin and vulnerable to cracking. A crown provides full coverage and reinforcement, protecting the tooth from further damage and restoring normal biting strength.
This is a common treatment for teeth that have had repeated fillings or where the filling occupies most of the tooth surface.
Can You Put a Crown on a Tooth with an Abscess?
You can’t attach a tooth cap to an abscessed tooth straight away.
If there’s an abscess or infection, it must be fully treated first, usually with root canal therapy or a course of antibiotics. Once the infection has cleared and the tooth is stable, your dentist can prepare and fit the crown.
Crowning an infected tooth too early can trap bacteria and cause further problems, which is why professional assessment from your dentist is essential before treatment.
Can You Put a Crown on a Canine Tooth?
Crowns can be placed on any tooth, including canines (the pointed teeth near the front of your mouth).
Crowning a canine tooth may be needed after wear, injury or for cosmetic reasons. Porcelain or zirconia crowns are often chosen here to achieve a natural appearance that blends seamlessly with the surrounding teeth.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
With proper care, dental crowns can last 10 to 15 years or longer. Good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups and avoiding habits like teeth grinding can help extend their lifespan. In the event of your tooth cap becoming detached, have a read of our article, which walks you through the process of how to put your tooth crown back on.
The process for getting your tooth cap will typically take two appointments, however some treatment schedules do allow for same-day crowns.
- Initial Consultation – Your dentist examines the tooth, takes X-rays if needed, and discusses options.
- Tooth Preparation – The tooth is reshaped and a digital or physical impression is taken.
- Temporary Crown – A temporary crown protects your tooth while the permanent one is made.
- Fitting Appointment – Your custom crown is checked for fit and colour before being cemented in place.
Conclusion
If you’re wondering whether a tooth crown is the right solution for you, contact Grosvenor Dental Practice today. Our friendly team in Stoke-on-Trent will assess your needs and guide you through every step of your treatment journey.
