Top signs you may need a Dental Crown (And why you shouldn’t wait)

Have you ever found yourself avoiding chewing on one side of your mouth? Or maybe you have noticed a tooth that seems a little more sensitive than usual. These subtle signs could be your mouth’s way of telling you that a tooth is in trouble. Often, a dental crown is the ideal solution to restore a tooth’s health and function.

Here at Maple Dental, we want to empower our patients with the knowledge to recognize these early warning signs to promote better oral health and prevent more significant issues down the road.

1. You’ve Had a Large Filling That’s Failing

If you’ve had a big filling in the past, especially in a back molar, that tooth might not have enough structure left to stay strong on its own. Over time, fillings can weaken and leak, which allows bacteria to sneak in and cause decay. When that happens, a dental crown can cover and protect the tooth, preventing it from breaking or needing extraction down the line.

2. Your Tooth Is Cracked or Chipped

We see a lot of patients who come in with cracked or chipped teeth—sometimes from biting down on something hard, sometimes from grinding at night, or even just from wear and tear over the years. Minor cracks might not hurt, but they’re still a risk. A crown helps by completely covering the tooth and holding it together, so cracks don’t spread and cause further damage.

3. You’re Dealing with Persistent Tooth Pain

Ongoing tooth pain, especially when you bite down or chew, could mean there’s an issue with the tooth’s structure. In some cases, it might be due to a deep cavity or even a hairline fracture that’s not visible to the eye. After examining the tooth and possibly doing an X-ray, we may recommend a crown to relieve pain and keep the tooth stable.

4. You’ve Had a Root Canal

If you’ve had a root canal, chances are you’ll need a crown afterward. Once the infected tissue is removed from inside the tooth, it becomes more brittle and prone to cracking. A crown seals the tooth and provides the strength needed to handle everyday chewing without risk of breakage.

5. Your Tooth Is Severely Worn Down

We often see worn-down teeth in patients who grind or clench their teeth (a condition known as bruxism), or those with acid erosion from diet or medical conditions. Worn teeth can affect your bite, your appearance, and your ability to chew comfortably. Crowns restore both the look and function of these teeth, giving you back your smile and preventing further issues with your bite or jaw.

6. You Have a Broken Tooth with Exposed Nerves

If part of your tooth breaks off and exposes the inner pulp or nerve, you’ll likely experience sensitivity or pain, especially with hot or cold foods. Leaving it untreated puts you at risk for infection or even a necessary extraction. A crown can cover the exposed area, protect the nerve, and save the tooth.

7. Your Tooth Looks Discolored or Misshapen

Sometimes crowns aren’t just for function—they’re also a great option for cosmetic improvement. If you have a tooth that’s misshapen, severely discolored, or smaller than your other teeth, a crown can help restore a natural and even appearance. We match the crown to your surrounding teeth for a seamless look.

Why Shouldn’t You Wait?

We always tell our patients—if you’re noticing pain, visible damage, or changes in how your tooth feels, don’t wait. Dental problems rarely go away on their own, and the longer you delay, the more complex and costly the solution can become. We’ve helped many patients preserve their natural teeth with timely crown placement.

If you’re looking for a dentist in the High Desert of Hesperia, we’re here to help. At Maple Dental, we use high-quality materials and advanced technology to ensure your dental crown looks and feels great.

To speak with our team or schedule your consultation, give us a call at 760-949-7274. You can also book an appointment online—it’s quick and easy!