How can we help you?
Choosing the right dentist and understanding your treatment options takes time and research. We want that process to be as straightforward as possible. Below you will find answers to the questions our patients ask most often about specific treatments, what to expect at appointments, costs, and caring for their smiles at home.
If you don't find what you are looking for here, we are happy to help. Call Carroll Family & Cosmetic Dentistry at (303) 962-6400 or send us a message, and we will get back to you promptly.
Crowns and Bridges
The decision depends on how much healthy tooth structure remains and whether a filling can still protect the tooth reliably long-term. When decay or damage is limited, a filling is often the right choice. When the tooth is significantly weakened, a crown provides better protection.
Factors That Determine Whether You Need a Crown
No single factor makes the decision. Dr. Carroll looks at the complete picture before recommending a crown:
- Amount of remaining healthy tooth structure
- Whether the tooth has fractures or cracks
- Bite forces and the tooth’s position in the mouth
- History of grinding or clenching
- Whether the tooth has had a root canal, which makes it more brittle
- Long-term predictability of a filling versus a crown
- Any cosmetic concerns that a crown could address at the same time
- Overall gum and bone health surrounding the tooth
When a Crown Is the Better Choice
- A large filling in a back molar may carry a real fracture risk that a crown prevents.
- A cracked tooth needs to be held together before the crack deepens.
- A tooth treated with a root canal usually needs a crown to survive long-term chewing forces.
Dr. Carroll explains her reasoning clearly so you understand why one option is more predictable than the other for your specific tooth.
Schedule a Consultation
If you have been told you may need a crown and want a thorough evaluation, we are happy to help. Call Carroll Family & Cosmetic Dentistry at (303) 962-6400 or schedule online. We welcome patients from Erie, Broomfield, Lafayette, Westminster, Thornton, Brighton, Dacono, Frederick, Firestone, and surrounding communities.