Teeth are designed to withstand years of chewing, biting, and temperature changes, but they are not immune to damage. A sudden impact, long-term wear or even an unnoticed habit like grinding can compromise a tooth’s structure. When a tooth becomes cracked or broken, deciding on the right treatment is critical. In many cases, dental crowns provide the protection and reinforcement needed to save the tooth and restore normal function.
This in-depth guide explains when dental crowns are necessary for broken or cracked teeth, how dentists assess damage, what treatment options exist, and how crowns help prevent long-term complications. The goal is to help you understand not just what a teeth crown is, but why and when it becomes the most appropriate solution.
Key Takeaway
Dental crowns are necessary when a broken or cracked tooth can no longer safely withstand everyday biting forces on its own. They are used to reinforce weakened teeth, prevent cracks from worsening, restore function and protect against infection. Crowns are especially important for deep cracks, large fractures, teeth with extensive fillings and teeth that have undergone root canal treatment. Early assessment and timely crown placement significantly increase the chance of preserving the natural tooth.
Why Broken And Cracked Teeth Should Never Be Ignored
Many people underestimate tooth damage, especially when pain is mild or inconsistent. However, even small cracks can worsen over time, often without obvious warning signs.
A damaged tooth is structurally compromised. Each bite places pressure on weakened enamel and dentine, increasing the risk that the crack will spread. Once a crack reaches the inner pulp or the root, saving the tooth becomes far more complex and, in some cases, impossible. Common reasons damaged teeth require attention include:
- Increased risk of bacterial infection
- Progressive structural breakdown.
- Heightened sensitivity and discomfort.
- Potential damage to surrounding teeth.
- Higher likelihood of tooth loss
Delaying treatment often turns a manageable issue into a dental emergency.
💡 If a tooth feels different when you bite down, even without visible damage, it should be checked promptly.
Common Causes Of Broken Or Cracked Teeth
Understanding how tooth damage occurs helps explain why crowns are often necessary. Teeth rarely crack without a reason. Damage usually results from a combination of pressure, weakness, and repeated stress. Frequent causes include:
- Chewing hard foods such as ice, popcorn kernels, or hard sweets
- Sudden trauma from accidents or sports injuries.
- Long-term teeth grinding or clenching.
- Large or ageing fillings that weaken remaining enamel.
- Sudden temperature changes affecting weakened teeth
- Natural ageing of enamel over time.
Even a single incident can cause a crack that worsens gradually.
💡 Using a mouthguard for sports or grinding can dramatically reduce the risk of tooth fractures.
Different Types Of Tooth Damage And What They Mean
Not all cracks or breaks affect teeth in the same way. Dentists classify tooth damage to determine the safest and most effective treatment.
Surface Enamel Cracks
These are tiny lines limited to the enamel.
- Usually painless.
- Very common in adults.
- Often cosmetic rather than structural
Crowns are rarely required unless aesthetics are a concern.
Partial Breaks Or Chipped Teeth
These involve a loss of enamel and sometimes dentine.
- May cause sensitivity
- Tooth strength may be reduced.
- Risk of further chipping
Crowns may be recommended if the break affects function or stability.
Cracks Extending Into Dentine
These cracks penetrate beyond the enamel.
- Pain when chewing or releasing pressure
- Sensitivity to temperature.
- Increased risk of pulp irritation
Crowns are commonly used to stabilise the tooth.
Severe Fractures Or Split Teeth
These involve deep structural damage.
- Significant pain
- High infection risk
- Limited treatment options
Crowns may be part of treatment if enough tooth structure remains.
💡 The deeper the crack, the more likely a crown will be required to prevent tooth loss.
What A Dental Crown Actually Does
A dental crown is more than a cosmetic covering. It functions as a protective shell that fully encases the visible portion of a damaged tooth.
Once bonded in place, a crown:
- Reinforces weakened tooth structure.
- Prevents cracks from spreading.
- Restores normal biting strength
- Shields the tooth from bacteria
- Improves shape, colour, and alignment
Unlike fillings, which repair specific areas, crowns protect the entire tooth above the gum line.
💡 Think of a crown as structural armour rather than a simple repair.
When A Dental Crown Becomes Necessary
Crowns are recommended when a tooth can no longer function safely without full coverage.
Significant Loss Of Tooth Structure
When a large portion of enamel is missing, the tooth becomes fragile.
- Remaining enamel cannot support biting forces
- Fillings may fracture or dislodge
- Risk of sudden breakage increases.
A crown redistributes pressure evenly across the tooth.
Cracks That Worsen Under Pressure
Cracks often open slightly when chewing.
- Causes sharp, inconsistent pain
- Allows bacteria to penetrate deeper layers
- Increases chance of infection.
Crowns hold the tooth together and reduce movement.
Teeth With Extensive Restorations
Teeth with large fillings are structurally weaker.
- Less natural enamel remains
- Fillings do not flex like natural tooth structure.
- Cracks often develop around restoration edges
Crowns protect both the tooth and the existing restoration.
Teeth After Root Canal Treatment
Root-treated teeth are more brittle.
- Loss of internal moisture.
- Higher fracture risk
- Often minimal remaining enamel
Crowns are considered essential in most cases.
💡 If more than half the tooth is compromised, a white teeth crown is usually the safest option.
Warning Signs That A Crown May Be Needed
Some symptoms are obvious, while others are subtle and easy to dismiss.
Common indicators include:
- Pain when biting or chewing.
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers.
- A feeling that the tooth is “flexing”
- Visible cracks or missing fragments
- Swelling or gum irritation near the tooth
Symptoms may come and go, which often leads people to delay treatment.
💡 Intermittent pain is often a sign of structural damage rather than decay.
Types Of Dental Crowns Used For Damaged Teeth
The material used for a crown affects strength, appearance, and longevity.
Porcelain Crowns
- Designed to mimic natural enamel
- Excellent aesthetics
- Suitable for front teeth.
Porcelain-Fused-To-Metal Crowns
- Strong internal metal base
- Natural-looking exterior
- Long-standing and reliable option
Zirconia Crowns
- Exceptional strength
- Highly resistant to fracture
- Increasingly popular for cracked teeth
Full Metal Crowns
- Extremely durable.
- Minimal tooth reduction required
- Typically used for back teeth
💡Zirconia crowns are often ideal for cracked teeth that need both strength and aesthetics.
How Dentists Decide Whether A Crown Is Necessary
Your dentist will typically use their clinical expertise alongside diagnostic tools to determine the need for a dental crown.
Assessment usually includes:
- Visual examination.
- Bite testing.
- Dental X-rays
- Evaluation of symptoms
- Assessment of existing restorations
The goal is to determine whether the tooth can be preserved safely without full coverage.
💡: Early diagnosis increases the chance of avoiding more invasive treatment.
The Dental Crown Treatment Journey
Understanding the crown treatment process will help you be better prepared for the procedure.
Examination And Treatment Planning
The dentist evaluates damage and discusses options.
- Crown suitability confirmed.
- Material selection discussed
- Treatment timeline explained
Tooth Preparation
The damaged tooth is reshaped.
- Weak enamel removed.
- Tooth shaped to support the crown
- Healthy structure preserved
Temporary Protection
A temporary crown is placed.
- Protects the tooth
- Maintains appearance and function
- Prevents sensitivity
Final Crown Placement
The permanent crown is fitted and bonded.
- Fit and bite adjusted
- Colour and shape checked
- Crown permanently secured
💡 Mild sensitivity after crown placement is normal and temporary.
Alternatives To Crowns For Less Severe Damage
Crowns are not always required, particularly for early-stage damage.
Dental Bonding
- Repairs small chips
- Quick and conservative.
- Less durable than crowns
Inlays And Onlays
- Partial coverage restorations
- Preserve more natural tooth
- Suitable for moderate damage
Veneers
- Primarily cosmetic
- Limited structural support
- Best for surface damage.
💡 Conservative treatments are most effective when damage is detected early.
The Risks Of Delaying Crown Treatment
Waiting can dramatically worsen outcomes.
Potential consequences include:
- Crack progression into the root
- Infection of the dental pulp
- Need for root canal treatment
- Eventual tooth extraction
- Higher treatment costs.
What starts as a crack may end as tooth loss.
💡 Acting early often saves both time and money.
Longevity Of Dental Crowns
Crowns are designed to last, but their lifespan depends on care and habits.
- Average lifespan: 10 to 15 years.
- Zirconia and metal crowns may last longer
- Oral hygiene plays a major role
Grinding, poor hygiene, and missed check-ups shorten crown lifespan.
💡 Night guards can significantly extend crown durability.
Caring For A Crowned Tooth Long Term
Crowns require the same daily care as natural teeth.
- Brush twice daily
- Floss carefully around the crown
- Avoid biting hard objects
- Attend regular dental check-ups
While crowns do not decay, the tooth underneath can.
💡 Pay special attention to the gum line around crowned teeth.
Cost Considerations For Dental Crowns In London
Costs vary depending on several factors.
- Crown material
- Tooth location
- Complexity of damage
- Additional procedures required.
Although crowns are an investment, they often prevent more costly treatments later.
💡Long-term value matters more than short-term savings.
How Whites Dental In London Can Help
For patients with broken or cracked teeth, expert assessment is essential. Whites Dental provides personalised dental crowns in London focused on preserving natural teeth while restoring strength, comfort, and appearance.
Patients can access professional care at Whites Dental’s London clinics located in Waterloo and Marble Arch, where modern diagnostic tools and advanced crown materials are used to deliver long-lasting results.
💡 Early expert intervention offers the best chance of saving a damaged tooth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can A Cracked Tooth Heal On Its Own?
No. Enamel does not regenerate, and cracks typically worsen over time.
Is A Dental Crown Always Needed For A Broken Tooth?
Not always. Minor damage may be treated conservatively, but significant structural loss usually requires a crown.
Do Crowns Look Natural?
Modern crowns are designed to closely match natural teeth in shape and colour.
Is Crown Treatment Painful?
Local anaesthesia ensures comfort during the procedure, with minimal post-treatment discomfort.
How Quickly Should A Crown Be Placed After Damage?
As soon as possible to prevent further cracking or infection.
💡 Prompt treatment improves both comfort and long-term outcomes.
Final Thoughts
Dental crowns play a crucial role in protecting and restoring broken or cracked teeth. While not every damaged tooth requires a crown, significant cracks, fractures and weakened structures often do. By reinforcing the tooth and preventing further damage, crowns help preserve natural teeth and maintain oral health for years to come.
If you suspect tooth damage, early professional assessment can make the difference between saving and losing your tooth.