Dealing with a cracked or chipped tooth can be annoying. Sometimes it’s just a minor cosmetic issue, but bigger cracks can become painful quickly if left unattended. Luckily, dental crowns are a tried-and-true solution that dentists often rely on. But can a crown actually fix a cracked or chipped tooth? Let’s break it down and see how crowns work and why they’re such a solid choice for getting your smile back in shape.

What’s a Dental Crown?

Think of a dental crown as a cap that covers the whole visible part of your damaged tooth. Its job is to restore the tooth’s shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns are typically made from durable materials, such as porcelain, ceramic, or metal, ensuring they last a long time and effectively protect damaged teeth.

When you crack or chip a tooth, it’s not just the surface that takes a hit. Sometimes, the damage can extend even deeper, reaching into the pulp. That’s where a crown comes in—it shields the tooth from breaking further and also makes it look as good as new.

Can a Crown Fix a Cracked Tooth?

Yes. Dentists frequently use crowns to repair cracked or chipped teeth. The process goes like this: They reshape your tooth to make room for the crown, clean up the area, and then fit the crown over the top to seal and protect what’s left. Here’s what you get out of it:

• Protection: The crown acts as a shield, preventing the crack or chip from worsening.
• Strength: It brings back the tooth’s strength, so you can bite and chew without worrying.
• Appearance: Porcelain or ceramic crowns can be matched to your other teeth, allowing them to blend seamlessly.

How Does the Crown Process Work?

Getting a porcelain crown typically necessitates two dental visits.

First Visit: Exam and Prep

Your dentist will examine the damage and may take an X-ray to assess its extent. If you’ve damaged pulp, a root canal becomes necessary. Once that’s sorted, they clean up the tooth and take impressions so your crown will fit just right.

Second Visit: Placing the Crown

When your custom crown is ready, you return to the dentist. The dentist fits it over your tooth, checks the fit, and makes sure your bite feels natural. Once it’s on, you’re good to go—biting, chewing, smiling, all back to normal.

Why Dental Crowns Are a Go-To Fix

Crowns come with a bunch of upsides for cracked or chipped teeth:

• Durability: They’re built to handle chewing and grinding—no need to baby your tooth. With good care, a crown can last for a decade.
• Stops More Damage: Covering the crack or chip using the crown prevents further deterioration of your dental health.
• Looks Better: Modern crowns, especially those made of porcelain or ceramic, closely resemble the appearance and texture of your natural teeth.

When Should You Get a Crown?

Crowns aren’t for every minor chip or crack. If the damage is severe or the tooth is at risk of breaking, a crown is a viable option. For tiny chips, your dentist might suggest dental bonding instead. But if your tooth hurts, feels sensitive, or bothers you day-to-day, it’s time to see your dentist and talk about your options. Crowns are a reliable and long-lasting solution for larger cracks and chips.

In the end, a dental crown doesn’t just make your tooth strong again—it can give you the confidence to smile without thinking about that crack or chip. Book a visit with our dentist to determine if a crown is the right choice for you.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to get a dental crown?

It usually takes two visits to the dentist: one for preparing the tooth and taking impressions, and the second for placing the custom-made crown.

2. Can a crown be placed on a tooth that has had a root canal?

Yes, a crown is often placed on a tooth after a root canal to restore its strength and functionality.

3. Will the dental crown feel like my natural tooth?

Once placed, most dental crowns feel and function like your natural teeth. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are especially designed to blend with your smile.

4. How long do dental crowns last?

With proper care, dental crowns can last between 10 and 15 years, depending on the material and the patient’s oral habits.

5. Is the process of getting a dental crown painful?

The procedure itself is typically pain-free, as local anesthesia is used during the preparation and placement of the crown.