A chipped or cracked tooth is something that can occur to anyone, whether it’s biting down on something hard, grinding your teeth, or as a result of a fall or sports injury. When this type of damage does occur, one of the best things to do to restore your tooth is with dental crowns in Saskatoon. Crowns are a great and popular way of protecting and strengthening damaged teeth while also getting your smile to look natural again.
In this blog, we’ll explain how dental crowns work, why they’re often recommended for cracked or chipped teeth, and what to expect during the process.
What is a dental crown?
A crown is a customized cap that is specially designed to cover your natural tooth. It’s actually closer to a cap, which covers the tooth underneath and also helps restore the shape, strength, and function of the tooth. Crowns are particularly helpful when a tooth is too damaged to get a normal filling but still is strong enough to be preserved.
There are a number of reasons that a crown will be needed, like after a root canal, if a tooth breaks, or if a tooth wears down. Crowns are made to match the colour of your other teeth, so they look and feel natural in your mouth.
When Is a Crown Needed for a Damaged Tooth?
If your tooth is cracked or chipped, your dentist will first check how deep the damage goes. Small chips may only need a filling or bonding, but deeper cracks can be more serious and need stronger protection. That’s where a crown comes in.
A dentist can examine the tooth and decide if a crown is the right choice. If the crack reaches the root, more extensive treatment like a root canal may be needed before placing a crown.
What Happens If Part of My Crown Chipped Off?
Sometimes, even a crown can get damaged, especially if it’s old or you bite something very hard. If you’ve noticed part of my crown chipped off, don’t panic. It may be possible to repair or replace it depending on the size of the chip. Small chips might just need smoothing or a repair, while bigger breaks could mean getting a new crown.
It’s important to contact your dentist right away if this happens, as waiting could lead to more damage or sensitivity. Crowns are strong, but like natural teeth, they’re not completely unbreakable.
Different Types of Dental Crowns
Crowns can be made from a few different materials. The types of dental crowns available include
- Porcelain or ceramic: These look the most like real teeth and are great for front teeth.
- Metal (like gold): Very strong and long-lasting, but more noticeable.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal: A mix of both, offering strength and a natural look.
- Zirconia: Very strong and tooth-coloured, often used for back teeth.
Your dentist will help you choose the best type based on where the crown will go and what matters most to you — appearance, durability, or cost.
What to Expect During the Crown Process
Getting a crown usually takes two dental visits. In the first visit, the dentist will:
- Examine and take X-rays of the damaged tooth.
- Remove any decay or weak parts of the tooth.
- Shape the tooth to prepare it for the crown.
- Take impressions of your tooth to send to a lab.
- Place a temporary crown while you wait for the final one.
At the second visit, the dentist will remove the temporary crown and cement the permanent one in place. Once it’s done, the tooth will look and feel like a natural, healthy part of your smile.
What to Do if Your Dental Crown Chipped
If you experience a dental crown chipped, it’s best not to ignore it. Even a small chip can turn into a big problem if bacteria get inside or the crown becomes loose. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth, and call your dentist as soon as possible. Depending on the damage, your dentist may be able to fix it or suggest a replacement.
Also, to help prevent chips in the future:
- Avoid chewing ice or hard candy.
- Don’t use your teeth to open things.
- Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth or play sports.
Take the Next Step Toward a Stronger, Healthier Smile
If you or a loved one has a cracked, chipped, or damaged tooth, dental crowns might be the perfect solution to restore your smile and prevent future problems. Crowns are safe, effective, and designed to last for many years with proper care.
Book your visit today with Lakewood Dental, and let our friendly team help protect your teeth and give you back the confidence to smile proudly!