What If There Is Not Enough Tooth For A Crown?

When you need a dental crown, adequate tooth structure is crucial for a successful procedure. But what if there isn't enough tooth left to support a crown? In this blog post, we'll discuss the options available if you find yourself in this situation. We'll explore the different treatments used to restore teeth with limited remaining structure, and the advantages and disadvantages of each approach. Read on to learn more about what you can do if there isn't enough tooth for a crown.

What Is a Crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to improve its strength, functionality, and appearance. It covers the entire tooth above the gumline, providing protection and support while restoring its natural shape, size, and color. Crowns can consist of different materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination. They address a variety of dental problems, including severe tooth decay, cracks, chips, fractures, root canals, and cosmetic imperfections. Crowns last many years with proper care and maintenance.

What Happens When You Don't Have Enough Tooth for a Crown?

Dentists use crowns for protecting and repairing teeth severely damaged by decay. These crowns are designed to attach to small tooth surfaces, so dentists evaluate the remaining tooth and determine if it meets the criteria for crown placement. When a dentist evaluates the remaining tooth, they consider several factors, including the amount of tooth structure, the tooth's location, and the position of the gum line. If the patient lacks enough natural tooth to securely attach the crown, a dentist first reconstructs the tooth using composite resin. The crown is placed over the resin tooth structure and functions like a natural tooth.

However, when a natural tooth fractures into the gum tissue, two techniques are required: crown lengthening and a core build-up. Crown lengthening involves removing gum tissue to expose more of the tooth structure. A core build-up involves adding more tooth material to the tooth structure so there is enough tooth surface to support the crown.

If there is inadequate tooth for a crown, the dentist may recommend alternative treatments such as a dental bridge or implant. Always discuss all options with your dentist to find the best solution for your dental needs.

How Much Tooth Do You Need for a Crown?

When getting a dental crown, you must have enough tooth structure to support the restoration. The good news is only a minimum of 1/4 of the natural tooth structure is necessary for a dental crown. However, the more natural, healthy tissue, the better. Dental crowns restore significantly damaged teeth, so even if you lost a fair amount of tooth structure, a crown could allow you to enjoy a healthier smile. 

Dental Crowns in Vilonia, AR

If you are in need of a dental crown in Vilonia, AR, Lane Family Dentistry can help. With years of experience and state-of-the-art technology, our team of experts handles even the most complex dental cases. To learn more about our dental crown services, call us at 501-796-3903 or request an appointment online.