Dental crowns are strong yet natural-looking restorations that help preserve teeth when they might otherwise require extraction. They are one of the most common restorative dental treatments available.
While crowns are an effective and safe choice for restoring your natural teeth, there are several dental crown myths you should be aware of before getting this treatment. To help clear up these myths, we’ve delved into the truth behind ten common dental crown myths.
Myth 1 - Dental Crowns Don't look Natural
This is a common myth where some patients are afraid their porcelain crowns look unnatural or not look like a real tooth. Whether the dental crown material is porcelain or ceramic, your new dental crown will look and feel like a natural tooth. The color of your crown will be designed specifically for you, so it blends in with your natural teeth.
Myth 2 - Dental crowns can't break, chip, or crack
Sometimes, even the strongest dental crowns could break as they are not immune to damage because of unexpected accidents, trauma to the area, or when biting something hard. However, in most cases, it can be easily replaced or fixed without further complications.
Myth 3 - I can just get another dental filling
If you have a tooth that has an advanced level of dental decay, you need to see your dentist. A dental filling will not stop the tooth from decaying further. However, you can prevent the need for a crown (major dental surgery) by visiting the dentist regularly or getting the tooth decay taken care of sooner than later.
If tooth decay develops, it can develop slowly, and in certain situations, it can occur without the patient knowing, causing serious pain and costly treatment. Rather see a dentist regularly so that you can manage this risk effectively. Preventing the damage by practicing proper oral hygiene is always better than dealing with it once it happens.
If your dentist recommends a crown during your visit, that means the damaged tooth has gone past the point where a filling is the best solution. A filling in these situations will only prolong the inevitable need for a crown and may result in losing more of your natural tooth. In addition to potentially losing the tooth, it will certainly mean more expensive procedures later.
Myth 4 - I can get dental crowns instead of veneers for cosmetic purposes
Getting crowns as an aesthetic addition isn’t a great idea. (If that’s what you need, take a look at our veneer services!) The reason for that is because veneers are designed to conceal imperfections or improve the appearance of a smile by removing as little tooth structure as possible. In contrast, crowns offer a complete solution for severely damaged teeth.
Myth 5 - Dental crowns are too painful
The common myth about dental procedures is that they are all painful. This is not always true. Advances in technology have made it possible to get through these procedures with minimal discomfort. At Sloan Creek Dental, our mission is to provide the latest, most advanced dental care with exceptional service with a caring touch. As part of your dental procedure, we will help you choose the best option to make your treatment as comfortable as possible.
myth 6 - Crowns are too expensive
While crowns cost more than fillings, that doesn’t mean that quality affordable dental crowns do not exist. If you’re concerned about the cost, talk to your dentist to see if they offer any financing options or if they offer a dental membership plan.
At Sloan Creek Dental, we can help you find a dental solution that fits your budget. If you need financing for your crown, we partnered with CareCredit and LendingPoint, offering 0% financing for six months. We also have our Dental Membership plan, where one of the benefits of joining is the 15% discount on all dental treatments.
Myth 7 - THERE IS NO MAINTENANCE YOU NEED TO DO WITH A DENTAL CROWN
We encourage you to care for your crowns, just as you would with your natural teeth. You can do this by taking your time while brushing and flossing daily. Additionally, we encourage you to keep up with your regular dental visits with your local dentist so we can make sure the crowns are adequately cared for and that they fit well.
Myth 8- Dental crowns protect your teeth from all potential future damage
They are intended to protect teeth from extreme cases of damage like fractures, injuries, etc. However, they don’t protect you from gum disease or protect your tooth from getting a cavity underneath the crown. If the crown develops a hole and allows harmful bacteria to enter your system, it can result in gum infections and cavities. If the damage is severe, a root canal may be required to treat the damage.
Myth 9 - A DENTAL CROWN PROTECTS AGAINST future cavities
Dental crowns are used to restore a cavity-infected tooth and strengthen the structure of your tooth. Once the crown is in place, it is great for protecting it against damage and decay only if you continue to practice proper oral hygiene. Not doing so will only result in the crown failing and for bacteria to access the vulnerable tooth beneath the crown.
Myth 10 - They're indestructible
While dental crowns offer a lot of benefits, they aren’t a permanent solution. Depending on your eating habits and dental hygiene, crowns generally last between five and ten years before requiring replacement. For your dental crowns to last as long as possible, your dentist recommends that you regularly visit your general dentist for an exam and a regular cleaning every six months for preventative dental care.
Have questions about Dental crowns?
If you’re thinking about dental crowns, have other myths about dental crowns you would like answers for, have questions about the dental crown procedure, how they would look in your mouth or would like to get a second opinion. Please contact our office (972) 468-1440 for a dental appointment in Fairview, TX, and we’ll be happy to assist you. We take your smile and oral health seriously at our practice – we want it to last for a lifetime!
Our dental office is located in Fairview, Texas, and our patients visit us from across the surrounding areas, including Allen, Plano, McKinney, and Lucas.