Busting the Biggest Dental Crown Myths

There’s hope for a severely damaged tooth. Besides restoring its function and appearance, a dental crown in Solana protects it from further damage. The dentist places crowns over the visible surfaces of natural tooth structures.

Despite its popularity, numerous myths surrounding dental crowns often confuse patients looking into this treatment option. We’ve delved into the truth behind some of the biggest myths about this innovative restoration to help you make an informed decision. 

The Truth Behind the Common Dental Crown Myths 

MYTH #1: “Crowns look fake, and they don’t feel like real teeth.” 

Dental crowns won’t look fake because they’re custom-made to blend in with the rest of your natural teeth perfectly. Since these restorations are made of porcelain, they mimic the gloss and shade of natural teeth. Additionally, you can work with your dentist to choose the shape of your crown. 

Crowns won’t feel strange or out of place in your mouth while speaking or chewing. When your dentist places your crown, they’ll check your bite and make adjustments as needed before setting it permanently. For this reason, your bite will feel natural, and you won’t feel any difference in the strength or stability of the tooth that supports it. 

MYTH #2: “Crowns involve a painful procedure.” 

Thanks to modern anesthetics, most patients report that getting a crown is like getting an average filling. Although you’ll feel a mild tugging or pressure during treatment, you won’t feel pain as your dentist places and adjusts your dental crown. Additionally, they’ll advise you to take over-the-counter pain medication or apply ice packs on the treated area to ease any discomfort once the numbing sensation wears off.

MYTH #3: “Getting a large filling is better than getting a dental crown.” 

A tooth that receives a large filling becomes more brittle. Your chances of experiencing a painful dental emergency are greater when the tooth cracks or breaks. If the crack extends below the gum line, a crown won’t be enough to repair the damage. In such cases, dentists often recommend a tooth extraction.

Alternatively, dentists place dental crowns over decayed or weak teeth to hold them together and protect them from future injury. Unless you’re willing to risk losing a tooth, it’s best to place a dental crown over a tooth with a significant filling. 

MYTH #4: “Only those who have poor oral hygiene will require dental crowns.” 

Someone can struggle with cavities despite taking excellent care of their teeth. For this reason, a person may need dental crowns regardless of how much time or care they dedicate to their oral hygiene routine. 

For instance, certain health conditions or medications increase a person’s likelihood of getting cavities or gum disease that may require dental crowns. Dental crowns also work to restore badly worn down or misshapen teeth due to bruxism. Bruxism refers to a condition in which a patient unconsciously grinds, gnashes, or clenches their teeth.

MYTH #5: “Dental Crowns are indestructible.” 

Although porcelain crowns aren’t indestructible despite their ability to withstand daily wear and tear as natural teeth do. A strong blow to the face or biting onto something hard can cause your dental crown to chip, crack, or break.  

If you’re looking to get the most out of your crowns, avoid using your teeth as tools or chewing ice or other hard foods. If you unconsciously grind or clench your teeth at night, you’ll want to ask your dentist about oral appliances that protect your teeth while you’re asleep.

Do You Need a Dental Crown in Solana? 

At Inspire Smiles, we’re dedicated to caring for you using expert-level aesthetic skills and state-of-the-art technology in a clean and comfortable environment. Contact us today to make an appointment.