Should I get a cosmetic crown fitted on a healthy tooth?

[antmusic]

I visited my lovely new dentist and asked about a discoloured tooth - what could be done to improve the look of the tooth? It is towards the back of my mouth and had a large grey filling done years ago - the tooth is sunken and grey but healthy and just has a big dark filling in it. The filling can't be replaced because it is too near the surface of the tooth. So I signed up for a crown. This would look great and I'd have a nicer smile. Now having major second thoughts - if it gets infected / has to be replaced / needs root canal / then I lose the tooth etc etc! Has anyone had / not had a cosmetic crown on a healthy tooth? Would you?

[ROUNDandROUNDINCIRCILESMORETHA]

I did this as they said the 'enamel' on front teeth was wearing. I totally wish i hadn't now as don't think it's flattering. I think if he is genuine then he will offer you another option.

[antmusic]

Wow, thanks for all the advice, I'm going to go back and chat to the dentist about all this as it is such a grey area (literally)

[Willdoitinaminute]

If the filling is large and too close to the surface ( I take it this is what is discolouring the tooth) then the removal of this area of the tooth to create space for the crown will weaken it further. Hope you are following the logic so far. Careful removal of the filling (which has so far been successful) will not necessarily weaken the remaining tooth, and careful placement of a composite(white filling) may solve the problem.
We charge about 3 to 4 times as much for crowns, so some of our ranks will always got straight for crowns rather than consider other alternatives.
The most up to date thinking suggests that removal of healthy tooth should be avoided since once it has gone it has gone forever. Not a particularly popular 'theory' with some.
Modern materials use a bonding technique that dramatically reduces the need to drill massive holes in teeth to keep the filling falling out, and since all crowns rely on a cement or bond to stay in why not keep as much tooth as possible and just use the bond.

[gingeroots]

Apologies - quite agree differentname . I should have rear OP's post more carefully .

[differentnameforthis]

It's not a healthy tooth if it has a big filing in it. It can break at any time, at a weak point between the filling & tooth.

The likelyhood of it breaking is greater with a big filling, a crown will prevent bits breaking off.

It can still be treated if crowned, but it does involve drilling through the crown.

If it would make a difference to your confidence, then yes, I would do it.

[gingeroots]

No don't have a crown on a healthy tooth . Preparation will weaken the tooth .

Really don't do it .

[antmusic]

I do agree, OldLadyKNowsSomething, I can just picture myself having a discussion with the dentist following a problem unforeseen with the filling or whatever and things escalating... maybe I leave it a few years until th e tooth actually needs some work done on it and see if it can be improved appearance-wise at the same time... it's not like I'm an actress and will lose work because of it!

[antmusic]

Thank you for the advice, think I may be nearing a decision... NatashaBee, how long ago did you have your crowns fitted? I knew someone who had front teeth crowned and it did make a huge impact on that person's appearance, their confidence and total life change - he got a new job, new girlfriend - the whole works!

[OldLadyKnowsSomething]

I wouldn't even consider it. If it's towards the back of your mouth, how does it affect your smile?

I'm a great believer in, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it", particularly when it comes to something that may be painful, could have the consequences you fear, and will certainly cost a small fortune.

[antmusic]

I do trust him but only started at the new practice this week so now not so sure..., just now getting cold feet and may start a load of trouble when it is not too bad cosmetically and healthy (apart from the giant grey filling)...feel like cancelling the appointment now...