What's So Special About Dental Crowns?
Posted by Cory L. Crouse, DMD LLC Sep 26, 2023
If you've ever wondered what makes these little dental wonders so special, then you're in the right place. Whether you need a crown yourself or you're just curious about this common dental procedure, we're here to break it all down for you.
Dental crowns, also known as dental caps, are custom-made coverings that fit over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. They essentially act as a protective armor for your teeth while improving their functionality and aesthetics.
The Purpose of Dental Crowns
Dental Crowns serve a crucial purpose in restorative dentistry. They are commonly used to repair damaged or weakened teeth, providing strength and protection. Whether it's due to decay, trauma, or previous dental procedures, dental crowns can effectively restore the function and appearance of a tooth.
- One of the primary purposes of dental crowns is to provide structural support to a tooth that has been significantly compromised. When a tooth is broken or severely decayed, a crown can be placed over it like a protective cap. This helps prevent further damage and strengthens the tooth so that it can withstand normal biting and chewing forces.
- Another important role of dental crowns is cosmetic enhancement. These custom-made caps are designed to match the color, size, and shape of your natural teeth, ensuring seamless integration with your smile. Whether you have discolored or misshapen teeth, dental crowns can help improve their aesthetics and give you a more confident smile.
- Additionally, dental crowns play an essential role in supporting other types of restorations, such as bridges or implants. They serve as anchor points for these prosthetic devices by securely covering the underlying abutment teeth or implant fixtures.
- Dental crowns fulfill several important functions when it comes to oral health and aesthetics. From strengthening damaged teeth to enhancing their appearance and supporting other restorations – they truly are special!
How the Procedure is Done
Once you and your dentist have decided that a dental crown is the best option for restoring your tooth, the procedure can begin. The first step is to prepare the tooth by removing any decay or old fillings. This ensures that there is a clean surface for the crown to be placed. Next, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth using a putty-like material. These impressions are sent to a dental lab where technicians will create a custom-made crown that fits perfectly over your prepared tooth.
In some cases, a temporary crown may be placed while you wait for your permanent one to be made. This temporary crown protects the prepared tooth and helps maintain normal function until the final restoration is ready. Once your custom-made crown has been created, it's time for placement. Your dentist will remove the temporary crown (if applicable) and carefully check the fit and appearance of the new one before cementing it into place. Adjustments may be made as needed to ensure optimal comfort and functionality.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
- Dental crowns offer a range of benefits that make them a popular choice for many individuals. Dental crowns provide strength and durability to weakened or damaged teeth. They act as a protective covering, preventing further damage and decay.
- Dental crowns can improve the appearance of your smile. Whether you have discolored, misshapen, or crooked teeth, dental crowns can enhance their aesthetics by providing a natural-looking tooth surface. With custom-made crowns designed to match the color and shape of your existing teeth, you can achieve a seamless and beautiful smile.
- In addition to their cosmetic advantages, dental crowns also restore functionality to your mouth. If you have difficulty chewing due to cracked or broken teeth, getting dental crowns can help alleviate this issue. By strengthening the damaged tooth structure and improving its alignment with neighboring teeth, eating becomes easier and more comfortable.
- Moreover, dental crowns are known for their longevity if cared for properly. With regular brushing and flossing, along with routine visits to your dentist for check-ups and cleanings, your dental crown can last for many years without needing replacement.
- The benefits of dental crowns extend beyond just restoring the health of your teeth; they also improve your confidence in smiling again while maintaining proper oral function.
To learn more about our dental services at Cory L. Crouse, DMD LLC, call 808-487-3033 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 99-128 Aiea Heights #603, Aiea, HI 96701.