What Are Dental Crowns and When Do You Need One?
A dentist may use dental crowns to protect vulnerable teeth. Crowns cover damaged or decayed teeth, restoring shape, strength, and function. They resemble your natural teeth, blending in with your smile. Crowns help keep teeth structurally sound when fillings alone cannot provide durable support. Here is what dental crowns are and when you need one:
Recognizing Crown Needs
Schedule regular visits with your dentist to evaluate the health of your teeth. Decay that reaches deep into the enamel can destabilize teeth. If you have fractures, cracks, or chips, you may need a crown when a filling is too small to fit the area. Crowns reinforce vulnerable teeth, allowing normal chewing and oral function. An experienced doctor can evaluate your teeth to determine when a crown may aid your oral health.
Exploring Crown Materials
Dentists may use pure ceramic to create a crown that is indistinguishable from your natural teeth. Ceramic mimics your teeth’s color and sheen for an ideal aesthetic match. Gold or metal alloys provide maximum strength for molars, which handle the high pressure of grinding food. Composite resin is another material option available. Discussing your dental needs with an expert will allow you to discuss the benefits of each material.
Durable dental materials with aesthetic elegance may provide dual benefits. Advanced crown technologies deliver natural colors and textures that make teeth indistinguishable from their neighbors. Your dentist will work with you to verify that the chosen material can be stained in the correct color to match any ridges, lines, or textures on your natural teeth.
Navigating Crown Procedures
The crown procedure begins with an exam to evaluate the tooth. The dentist then prepares the tooth by removing decayed areas and reshaping it to support the crown. They take an impression to capture an exact mold of the prepped tooth. This helps craft a fitting permanent crown. Before leaving the office, you will receive a temporary crown for protection. After a dental lab or the office manufactures the final crown in your desired material, they will schedule a return appointment with you. During the last appointment, the doctor bonds the permanent crown using dental cement.
Enhancing Crown Longevity
After receiving a crown from your dentist, having good oral hygiene can promote its longevity. Purchase a soft toothbrush and low-abrasive toothpaste to keep the crown’s surface smooth and stain-free. Brushing daily reduces plaque buildup around the crown edges, and using an antibacterial mouthwash helps eliminate bacteria in hard-to-reach areas. Flossing removes food particles trapped between teeth and crowns. Schedule dental cleanings a few times per year to maintain oral health and monitor the integrity of your dental work.
Selecting Expert Doctors
Select a specialist experienced in crown procedures. Evaluate their education and advanced training in restorative dentistry. Assess their proficiency in all crown materials and methods. A consultation allows you to assess their communication and technical abilities. Skilled doctors craft durable crowns that blend well with your smile.
Engage a Professional Dentist Today
Dental crowns repair damaged teeth to restore your chewing ability, comfort, and smile. These custom caps cover the visible portion of teeth while restoring their original look. Speak with a dentist to determine if you need a crown or bridge. The right materials, proper placement techniques, and effective aftercare can help achieve lasting results. Schedule your consultation with a dental provider today.
