A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a tooth to restore or improve its appearance and function. At Harding Dental Group, dental crowns are one of our most common restorative dentistry treatments. They can be highly effective in repairing and strengthening teeth that have been damaged by decay, root canal infection, large fillings, cracks, severe enamel wear, or otherwise have been compromised. Additionally, crowns may be used as part of a cosmetic procedure to mask the appearance of stained or discolored teeth for an even, white smile.
Regardless of why a patient receives one, a crown is custom-crafted to match the color and other visible characteristics of their natural teeth. This way, it blends in seamlessly with the surrounding teeth to help create an attractive and healthy-looking smile.
The Procedure for Dental Crowns
First, our dentist will prepare the tooth, so the crown can fit over it like a cap. This involves removing some of the natural tooth structure to make room for the crown. Then, the dentist will take an impression of your teeth and send it to the dental laboratory where your crown will be made. In the meantime, you will wear a temporary crown until your permanent one is ready.
Once your permanent dental crown is ready, another appointment will be set to place it. The temporary crown will be removed and replaced with the permanent one. Our dentist will check the crown’s fit and bite and will make adjustments before permanently bonding the crown to the tooth.
You can take care of your crowns like you would your natural teeth. Be sure to brush twice daily, floss once daily, and see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Avoid chewing ice or other hard foods with your crowned teeth. When you maintain good oral hygiene habits, your dental crown can last for many years!
The Benefits of Dental Crowns
A crown is a restoration that covers the entire tooth from the gum line up. It is placed when a tooth is broken or decayed and can no longer be fixed with a filling or other treatment. Dental crowns can be made of porcelain, ceramic, gold, metal alloys, or a combination of these materials.
Patients with root canal therapy must have a dental crown placed over the treated tooth to protect it from further damage. They can also replace an older gold or silver crown with a new white one to improve aesthetics.
In some cases, if the teeth are crowded together, realigning them with orthodontic treatment may be recommended before installing crowns. In addition, if a patient has weak teeth prone to fracturing, they may benefit from having a crown to strengthen it against breakage.
Do note that most patients experience minimal pain during the procedure and can return to work the next day. However, eating may be uncomfortable for a few days.
A crown restores the tooth’s natural shape and improves its structure. To learn more about dental crowns, visit Harding Dental Group at 688 Del Sol Drive, Alamosa, CO 81101, or call (719) 589-2257.