What Are Dental Crowns and Who Do They Benefit?
Dental crowns are a fundamental component of restorative dentistry, offering a solution for restoring the function and appearance of damaged teeth. At Adams Dental Associates, we understand the importance of a fully functional and aesthetically pleasing smile. Let’s explore what dental crowns are, how they work, and who can benefit from them.
Understanding Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are custom-fitted coverings or “caps” placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are used to cover teeth that have been damaged but are not lost entirely. They are designed to fit snugly above the gum line, becoming the tooth’s new outer surface. Crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, composite resin, or metal alloys. Each material can be matched to the color of your natural teeth, except in the case of metal alloys, and is chosen based on the location of the tooth, the function of the tooth, the position of the gum tissue, or the patient’s preference.
Who Needs Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns serve several purposes and can be an appropriate solution for many dental issues:
- To Restore a Damaged Tooth: Teeth that have been weakened by decay, cracks, or fractures can be preserved and protected by dental crowns. For teeth that are too damaged to be repaired with a filling but not lost enough to require extraction, crowns provide a valuable means of saving the tooth and restoring its functionality.
- To Improve Appearance: For teeth that are severely discolored or poorly shaped, dental crowns can dramatically improve appearance, giving you a more uniform and whiter smile. They are often used in cosmetic dentistry to cover dental implants or to make cosmetic modifications for aesthetic purposes.
- To Complete a Dental Implant: Dental crowns are typically used to complete dental implant treatment. After the implant has been placed and has bonded with the bone, a crown is fitted on top to act as a natural-looking tooth replacement.
- To Anchor a Dental Bridge: Crowns are used to anchor a bridge in place. A bridge consists of an artificial tooth or teeth, connected to crowns on either side, that bridge the gap created by one or more missing teeth.
- To Protect a Weak Tooth: For teeth that are at high risk of breaking, such as those that are cracked or have undergone root canal treatment, crowns provide reinforcement and prevent further damage.
The Process of Getting Dental Crowns
The procedure for getting dental crowns typically involves two visits to your Sacramento dentist. During the first visit, the tooth is prepared, which involves reshaping the tooth to make room for the crown. An impression of the tooth is then taken to create a custom-fit crown, which is manufactured in a dental laboratory. A temporary crown is installed to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is being made.
On the second visit, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is adjusted as needed and then cemented into place. With proper care, dental crowns can last for many years, making them a great long-term investment in your dental health.
Caring for Your Dental Crowns
Caring for dental crowns is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Regular brushing and flossing are essential to prevent decay along the gum line and beneath the crown. It’s also important to avoid chewing hard foods, ice, or other hard objects, such as pencils or nuts, which can damage the crown. Regular check-ups with your dentist are crucial to ensure the longevity of your crowns and overall oral health.
Achieve a Stronger, More Beautiful Smile
Dental crowns are a versatile and effective solution for restoring and enhancing your smile. They not only improve the appearance of teeth but also restore functionality and protect against future damage. Whether you need to restore a damaged tooth, cover an implant, or improve the cosmetic appearance of your teeth, dental crowns may be the ideal solution.
At Adams Dental Associates in Sacramento, our team is committed to providing high-quality dental care tailored to your individual needs. If you think you might benefit from dental crowns or would like to learn more about your options, contact us today. We are here to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
