Dental Crowns 101
Did you know that your tooth enamel is the strongest substance in your body? Even though tooth enamel is stronger than bone, it is not immune to becoming worn down or incurring damage and decay over time if not cared for properly. There is one dental treatment that can be used not only to treat these issues, but also to restore the function and appearance of your natural teeth—dental crowns.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a tooth–shaped cap that is placed over an existing tooth. Crowns are used to improve the appearance of a tooth while restoring its function, size, and shape. They are primarily used over a weak or damaged tooth, but are also placed over a dental implant to finish the procedure.
Why Use a Dental Crown?
Dental crowns are commonly used in dental procedures when there is severe decay and can help save a tooth before extraction becomes the only solution. Crowns can be used for reasons such as:
- Protecting a weak tooth that is cracked or broken
- Covering and supporting a tooth compromised by a large filling
- Restoring a worn-down tooth
- Protecting a tooth following a root canal
- Improving color or shape
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are an excellent choice because they look and function like your natural teeth. If you have excellent dental hygiene and only typical wear, crowns can last upwards of 10 to15 years. Taking proper care of your crowns includes brushing and flossing as you do with your natural teeth and visiting our office for routine hygiene examinations.
Process for Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are not completed in one dental visit. Following impressions of your teeth, a temporary crown will be placed while the permanent porcelain crown is being fabricated. When wearing a temporary crown, we suggest avoiding sticky foods and chewing on the opposite side of the mouth. When the permanent crown is completed, it will be placed and checked to ensure that the fit and bite are correct.
If you are located in The Woodlands, TX area and would like more information on dental crowns, please call our office to schedule an appointment today.
