A person’s smile is one of the first things that they show off to the world, and a dental crown is one way to bolster that smile and restore teeth that may have sustained damage or blemishes. Dental crowns look similar to natural teeth, so no one will be able to tell at a glance that you are wearing a crown. Since it can last for years, a crown is considered a long-term prosthetic that does not require regular replacement.
The role of dental crowns
A dental crown can cover up blemishes on the tooth, such as small cracks and discoloration that are not severe enough for fillings or bonding. It can also restore the shape of a tooth if it has been chipped; in some cases, even crookedness can be addressed with a crown.
How dental crowns work
A dental crown can be made from various materials, including porcelain and metal. The dentist will need to shave away part of the enamel from the tooth receiving a crown for two reasons: to provide space for the crown so the tooth does not become too bulky and to create a roughened surface to which the crown can bond.
Then, the dentist applies a bonding agent like dental cement, which hardens and holds the crown in place over the tooth. From that point onward, the crown serves as a cover or cap, shielding the vulnerable interior of the tooth from damage. While a dental crown is often used to save a tooth from decay, it can also help create a smoother tooth surface or even give the impression that a crooked tooth is straight.
Taking care of crowns
Dental crowns look just like natural teeth, but it is essential to remember that they are artificial. While they are strong and durable, the materials that crowns are made of are not quite as strong as enamel. Therefore, patients must be sure to avoid biting down on hard objects, such as ice cubes, pencils, and hard candy or popcorn kernels.
Brush and floss a dental crown like a normal tooth. While crowns cannot decay like enamel can, they still need regular care to stay in good shape. Failure to clean a crown can lead to bacterial buildup and the formation of plaque and tartar, which may irritate the gums and cause gingivitis. Additionally, the seam between the natural tooth and the bonded crown can become vulnerable if left unclean, which may cause the crown to come loose later.
Enhance your smile with dental crowns
If you are self-conscious about your smile due to teeth issues, a dental crown could be a simple solution. Contact our office to share your vision for your teeth, and learn whether a dental crown is the best option for getting there. We would be happy to answer any questions and fit you for a custom crown that suits your smile.
Request an appointment here: https://www.healthysmilesgeorgetown.com or call Healthy Smiles Dentistry Georgetown at (512) 864-9010 for an appointment in our Georgetown office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Crown in Georgetown, TX.
Recent Posts
When a person is missing one or more teeth but does not need a full set of dentures, dental bridges may be recommended to take the place of the lost teeth. The number of teeth that a dental bridge replaces may depend on several factors.Dental bridges consist of two or more crowns that attach to…
For patients in need of dental crowns, there are plenty of options available. Two of the most common choices are porcelain crowns and metal crowns (often with a porcelain overlay fused to the metal). Depending on a patient's specific circumstances, one of these crown types may be the preferred option.Metal crowns have the advantage of…
Looking for a general dentist? General dentistry is one of the more popular dental niches operating today, as general dentists perform the necessary general dental services that patients need on a regular basis. This type of dental professional is one who can be compared to a general practitioner, as they are a patient's first contact…
Dental appliances refer to a number of different devices that are used to help treat a person's teeth. They may be permanent or temporary appliances that a dental professional applies to help a person in need of dental treatment.While the word dental appliances may sound big and scary, it actually just refers to simple things…