Many people opt for quick, temporary tooth fixes — a ready‑made crown kit or a slip‑on cap — hoping to dodge a dentist visit. At first, these patches seem to work: they cover cracks, ease sensitivity and let you eat without wincing. But they don’t address decay or structural damage beneath the surface. Ignoring the root cause leaves your tooth vulnerable. What starts as a minor ache can turn into a full‑blown crisis when a temporary seal gives way under everyday pressure.