Dental Crown for One Tooth

Why One Tooth Needs a Crown

A crown is often suggested when a tooth can no longer be restored to health using a standard filling. While a big filling can often do the job, there comes a point when the tooth needs more support to continue being used.

A crown covers the visible part of a tooth and restores it to its natural form, preventing further erosion and damage. Aesthetics play a part if the tooth is at the front of the mouth, but the function of the tooth is far more important if it’s at the back of the mouth. A tooth that’s used for grinding your food will be subjected to far greater forces.

Common Reasons for a Single Crown

• A cracked tooth that extends below the surface of the enamel.

• A tooth that’s had a root canal, as these are far more brittle and in need of support once the nerve has been removed.

Severe decay can leave a tooth with insufficient material for a filling to adhere to. Heavy erosion can also be a reason, perhaps if you grind your teeth in your sleep.

The Process of Getting a Crown

Your dentist will likely see you once to assess the tooth and perhaps take an x-ray, looking at the root and the jawbone to see if any non-crown treatment is required first.

The tooth is then prepared, which involves shaving down some of the enamel so that the crown has sufficient grip. Impressions are taken so that your crown can be made, and a temporary crown is fitted while you wait.

At your next appointment, your dentist will fit the final crown, making minor adjustments to ensure that your bite is not impaired. They may find that a seemingly tiny adjustment can make a huge difference to how comfortable the crown is.

Selecting the Right Crown for One Tooth

Material is a consideration if you want to restore a tooth to its natural function and appearance. Crowns that are meant to be at the front of the mouth or otherwise visible will often be tooth-coloured so that they do not stand out. Your dentist will advise on which material to use depending on the function of the tooth and the amount of force it will endure, which is far greater for your back teeth.

The cost of a crown can vary enormously depending on the material and dentist too, so ask about the full cost of the treatment ahead of time. Since you’re only replacing one tooth, it’s not the end of the world if you find out that you can’t afford it, but it’s best not to be caught out at the last minute.

Living With a Single Crown

Brush around your crowned tooth as you normally would and ensure that you clean between your teeth to avoid letting food or plaque build up around the edges of the crown. Your crowned tooth is still vulnerable to decay and gum disease, just like your natural teeth.

A crown on a single tooth is the ideal solution for restoring a damaged tooth that still has potential. Having a crown fitted means that that one tooth can continue to serve its mundane, vital function without you having to think about it.

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