New Patients:
(865) 432-0804 |
Existing Patients:
(865) 982-2421
Search
01
Jul
When Do You Need a Dental Crown in Maryville, TN?
It’s not always necessary to extract a weak or damaged tooth. In many cases, it can be restored and protected with a dental crown. At Proffitt Dentistry in Maryville, Tennessee, Drs. Tyler Bowland, William Proffitt and use custom dental crowns to strengthen compromised teeth while preserving their natural appearance and function. If you have been told you might need a crown, or you are experiencing symptoms that concern you, the following FAQs explain when a dental crown may be recommended and why it plays such an important role in long term oral health.
What is a dental crown, and how does it work?
A dental crown is a protective restoration that fits over a prepared tooth to reinforce and rebuild it. Rather than simply filling a small area, a crown encases the outer surface of the tooth above the gumline, helping restore durability, proper contour, and comfortable function.
When is a dental crown necessary instead of a filling?
A filling is typically used for smaller areas of decay. However, when a cavity is large or a significant portion of the tooth structure has been lost, a filling may not provide enough support. In these cases, a crown is recommended to protect the remaining tooth and prevent fractures.
Do I need a crown after a root canal?
Often, yes. A tooth that has undergone root canal therapy can become more brittle over time because the inner pulp tissue has been removed. Placing a crown over the treated tooth helps reinforce it and reduces the risk of cracking under normal biting pressure.
Call Our Office for More Information
New Patients: (865) 432-0804 | Existing Patients: (865) 982-2421 REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT
Is a crown required for a cracked or broken tooth?
If a tooth is cracked, fractured, or severely worn, a crown may be necessary to hold it together and restore function. Minor chips can sometimes be repaired with bonding, but deeper cracks that compromise the tooth’s structural integrity usually require full coverage protection.
Can a crown improve the appearance of a tooth?
Yes. In addition to strengthening damaged teeth, crowns can improve the appearance of misshapen, severely discolored, or worn-down teeth. Because they are custom-designed, they can enhance both function and aesthetics while maintaining a natural look.
How do I know if my tooth is too weak without a crown?
Signs that a tooth may need a crown include pain when biting, visible fractures, large existing fillings, or recurring decay around an older restoration. In some cases, there may be no obvious symptoms. Regular exams at Proffitt Dentistry allow us to evaluate tooth strength and recommend preventive treatment before a fracture occurs.
Will getting a crown prevent future problems?
A properly placed crown protects the underlying tooth from further damage and helps distribute biting forces evenly. While no restoration lasts forever, crowns significantly reduce the risk of additional fractures or structural breakdown when compared to leaving a weakened tooth untreated.
How long do dental crowns typically last?
With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, many crowns last 10-15 years or longer. Avoiding habits such as grinding your teeth or chewing hard objects can extend their lifespan. Routine checkups ensure your crown remains secure and functional.
Call Us!
Contact Proffitt Dentistry at (865) 432-0804 or schedule your appointment. Early evaluation can help protect your smile for years to come.
Share this Article
Dr. Tyler Bowland
Dr. Tyler Bowland is a dedicated dentist known for his patient-centered approach and commitment to long-term dental health. A Knoxville native, he holds a degree in biomedical engineering from the University of Tennessee and completed his dental training at the University of Louisville School of Dentistry in 2018. With advanced expertise in restorative and cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Bowland emphasizes preserving healthy tooth structure while achieving natural aesthetics. Returning to East Tennessee after eight years in Nashville, he offers comprehensive services, including clear aligners and implant restorations, in a trusted, comfortable setting.
Dr. William Proffitt
Dr. William Proffitt earned his business degree in transportation from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. Then, he decided to pursue a career in dentistry and attended the University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center in Memphis. Later, he returned home to Maryville and joined his uncle in practice. After four years, he took over the practice and continues to serve patients in the community. He is a member of the American Dental Association, Tennessee Dental Association, and the Second District Dental Association. Other affiliations include the Pierre Fauchard Academy, International College of Dentists, and the Academy of Biomimetic Dentistry. He has completed advanced studies at the Pankey Institute in Florida and the Alleman-Deliperi Centers for training in biomimetic dentistry in Salt Lake City and Italy. His passion is educating patients about the latest developments in conservative restorative dentistry.
Real Patients, Real Stories
We’d love to hear from you too. Tell us about your experience by leaving a review on Google!
Schedule Your First Visit
Our specialists work hand-in-hand with your general dentist to provide you with impeccable care and exceptional customer service.