Why Your Dentist Might Suggest a Crown Before You Feel Pain

January 14, 2026
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Posted By: Dr. Nabeel Khan

When you break a tooth or you’ve undergone root canal therapy, you probably won’t be surprised if your dentist suggests a dental crown to cover and protect your damaged or weakened tooth. But what if they suggest a dental crown for no obvious reason?

Even if you’re not experiencing tooth pain or some other dental issue, there are times when a dental crown is the best option for your oral health. At Burke Dental Center, we believe in a preventive approach to dentistry, so let’s explore when a dental crown might be a good choice.

Top Reasons We Recommend a Dental Crown

If you experience any of the following dental issues, we may suggest a dental crown as the best way to keep your natural tooth intact:

  • Large filling — When a large filling compromises or weakens your natural tooth, a crown can prevent breakage.
  • Deep decay — Extensive tooth decay weakens your tooth’s integrity, and a dental crown protects and strengthens it.
  • Cracked tooth — If you have a cracked tooth, it will likely worsen over time, resulting in a broken or split tooth. A crown prevents further damage.
  • Worn tooth — If you grind your teeth, a dental crown can restore your tooth’s shape and function.
  • Root canal — After a root canal, your tooth can be brittle and weak. A dental crown makes it possible to bite down and chew.

Our Preventive Philosophy

Even if your tooth doesn’t hurt, there are numerous reasons we might suggest a dental crown.

A crown can help you avoid one or more of the following:

  • Severe pain — Early treatment often decreases your chances of a severe toothache when you least expect it.
  • Tooth loss — Covering your tooth with a dental crown can save your natural tooth from extraction.
  • Complex treatments — Treating your tooth early could eliminate the need for more extensive treatments later on. You may be able to avoid extraction, root canal therapy, or costly tooth replacement.
  • Decreased function — A dental crown makes it possible to bite down and chew comfortably.

Need a Dental Crown in Burke, VA?

To learn more about what a dental crown can do to protect your oral health, please reach out to our experienced dental team! At Burke Dental Center, we’ll explain your options and work with you to create a treatment plan suited to your goals and budget.

If you’d like to schedule a consultation or appointment, we’d love to hear from you.

Please call us at (703) 440-5075.