A dental crown may not be something you think about until you really need one. These custom-made caps are designed to fit over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. In many cases, crowns help prevent more serious problems such as fractures or tooth loss. At Marlborough Dental Centre in Calgary, we often recommend dental crowns as part of a broader plan to maintain long-term oral health. Understanding the warning signs can help you get the care you need before a small issue becomes a major concern.
What Is a Dental Crown and Why Might You Need One?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cover placed over a tooth that’s been damaged, weakened, or treated (such as after a root canal). It acts like a protective shell, restoring the tooth’s function while also blending naturally with your smile. In Calgary, dental crowns are commonly used in restorative dentistry for patients who need to:
- Protect a cracked or fractured tooth
- Restore a tooth with a large filling
- Cover a dental implant
- Reinforce a tooth after root canal treatment
If you’re experiencing discomfort or noticing changes in your teeth, these could be early signs that a crown may be necessary.
Three Warning Signs to Watch out For
1. Persistent Tooth Pain or Sensitivity
One of the most common signs that you may need a dental crown is ongoing tooth pain, especially when chewing or biting. This pain often indicates that the structure of your tooth has been compromised, possibly due to decay, wear, or an old filling that’s no longer doing its job. Sensitivity to hot or cold foods may also suggest that the inner part of the tooth (the dentin or nerve) is exposed or unprotected. At Marlborough Dental Centre in Calgary, we use digital imaging and thorough assessments to determine whether a dental crown can relieve your discomfort and prevent further damage.
2. A Cracked or Chipped Tooth
Visible damage to a tooth—such as a chip, fracture, or deep crack—is another clear indicator that a dental crown may be needed. Left untreated, these issues can worsen over time, leading to tooth loss or infection. Crowns are especially helpful in reinforcing teeth that have suffered physical trauma or have weakened over time due to grinding or chewing hard foods. Our Calgary dental team will assess the extent of the damage and recommend the best approach to protect your tooth and restore its appearance.
3. Large Fillings That Are Breaking Down
Teeth that have had large fillings, especially older ones, can become brittle or prone to breaking. If you’ve noticed that a filled tooth is beginning to hurt, feels loose, or has a visible gap between the filling and the natural tooth, it could be time for a crown. In many cases, a crown offers a more durable and long-term solution than replacing the filling repeatedly. Marlborough Dental Centre provides Calgary patients with crown options that are both strong and natural-looking to ensure lasting protection and confidence.
Don’t Ignore the Signs—Protect Your Teeth with a Dental Crown
Waiting too long to treat a damaged or sensitive tooth can lead to bigger problems, including infection or loss of the tooth. Dental crowns offer a reliable and long-lasting solution for restoring comfort and preserving your natural teeth. At Marlborough Dental Centre in Calgary, our team is committed to helping you understand your treatment options and feel confident in your care. Contact Marlborough Dental Centre today to book an exam and find out if a dental crown is the right next step for your oral health in Calgary.
FAQs
Q: What is a dental crown?
A: A dental crown is a custom cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its strength and function.
Q: When do I need a crown instead of a filling?
A: If the tooth is too damaged for a filling to provide enough support, a crown may be recommended.
Q: Can a crown match my natural tooth colour?
A: Yes. Porcelain crowns are designed to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth. Contact Marlborough Dental Centre today for professional assistance with your oral health.
