When a tooth is damaged by decay, injury, or infection, timely treatment can mean the difference between saving or losing it. At Ballard Dental Arts, we specialize in two of dentistry’s most effective restorative solutions: dental crowns and root canals.
While these procedures serve distinct purposes, they often work together to preserve your natural teeth and protect your long-term oral health. Whether you’re experiencing tooth pain, sensitivity, or cosmetic concerns, understanding these treatments will empower you to make informed decisions about your smile.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are custom-made “caps” designed to cover a damaged or weakened tooth. Crafted from durable materials like porcelain, ceramic, or zirconia, they restore a tooth’s shape, strength, and appearance while preventing further damage.
When You Might Need a Dental Crown
Crowns address a variety of dental issues, including:
- Severe Decay: When a cavity is too large for a filling, a crown protects the remaining tooth structure.
- Cracked or Fractured Teeth: Crowns stabilize compromised teeth, preventing splits from worsening.
- Post-root Canal Therapy: After a root canal, a crown shields the treated tooth from fracture.
- Cosmetic Imperfections: Crowns mask discoloration, misshapen teeth, or gaps for a uniform smile.
- Worn-down Teeth: Patients with bruxism (teeth grinding) benefit from crowns that reinforce enamel.
The Crown Placement Process
At Ballard Dental Arts, we ensure a seamless, comfortable experience:
Consultation: We examine your tooth, take X-rays, and discuss material options (prioritizing aesthetics and durability).
Tooth Preparation: The tooth is reshaped to accommodate the crown. Impressions are taken for a precise fit.
Temporary Crown: A temporary crown is placed while your custom restoration is crafted in a dental lab.
Final Placement: The permanent crown is adjusted for bite alignment and cemented securely.
Did You Know? Modern crowns are indistinguishable from natural teeth. Porcelain crowns, for example, mimic the translucency of enamel, blending flawlessly with your smile.
What Are Root Canals?
Root canal therapy addresses infections or inflammation in a tooth’s pulp (the soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels). Contrary to myths, root canals are not painful—they relieve pain caused by infection.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
- Throbbing tooth pain that worsens with pressure or temperature changes.
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold foods, even after the stimulus is removed.
- Swollen gums or a pimple-like bump near the affected tooth (indicating an abscess).
- Tooth discoloration caused by nerve damage or decay.
The Root Canal Process
Our team ensures a stress-free procedure with minimal discomfort:
Diagnosis: Digital X-rays and clinical exams confirm pulp damage.
Anesthesia: Local anesthesia numbs the area for a painless experience.
Pulp Removal: The infected pulp is carefully extracted, and the canals are disinfected.
Sealing: The cleaned canals are filled with gutta-percha (a biocompatible material) and sealed.
Crown Placement: A crown is added to protect the now-brittle tooth and restore function.
Did You Know? Root canals have a 95% success rate and are far less invasive than extraction. By saving your natural tooth, you avoid bone loss and costly replacements like implants.
Crowns vs. Root Canals: How They Work Together
While crowns and root canals serve different purposes, they’re frequently paired to save teeth.
| Aspect | Dental Crown | Root Canal |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Restores structure/function of a damaged tooth | Removes infected pulp to eliminate pain and save the tooth |
| Procedure | Reshapes tooth; places a custom cap | Cleans, disinfects, and seals root canals |
| When Combined | Crowns protect teeth after root canals | Root canals address infections before crowns stabilize the tooth |
Why Ballard Dental Arts Stands Out
Advanced Technology: We use digital scanners for precise impressions and CEREC® crowns for same-day restorations.
Patient-Centered Care: From sedation options to detailed aftercare instructions, we prioritize your comfort.
Holistic Approach: We consider your overall oral health, ensuring treatments align with long-term goals.
Transparent Pricing: Our team explains costs upfront and works with your insurance to maximize benefits.
Pro Tip: Maintain your crown or post-root canal tooth by avoiding hard foods (e.g., ice, nuts) and practicing consistent oral hygiene.
Don’t Delay Treatment—Save Your Smile Today
Ignoring tooth pain or damage can lead to complex dental issues down the road. At Ballard Dental Arts, we combine cutting-edge techniques with compassionate care to restore your smile’s health, function, and beauty.
Whether you need a crown, root canal, or both, our team will guide you every step of the way. Call us at (206) 784-3740 or visit our website to book your appointment.
Our friendly staff is ready to answer any questions you may have about our dental treatment services. Follow us on Facebook for more oral health tips and special offers!