For years, patients with damaged or severely decayed teeth have received reliable protection from dental crowns. These timeless, restorative treatments not only protect from harmful bacteria and injury, but they also encourage the natural tooth to regain its strength and structure. At Texas Dentistry, we know just how important a dental crown can be to a person’s smile and overall oral health, so if you’re in need of added protection, give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
If you have a tooth that is severely decayed or one that has a filling that is taking up too much of your natural teeth, causing it to weaken, it’s time to consider a dental crown. These small “caps” fit snugly over your regular tooth, protecting it from damage and sealing it off from potential reinfection.
They’re custom-made to match the color, size, and shape of your natural teeth. This ensures you have a beautifully blended smile once the crown is cemented into place.
While you might think there is only one type of material that can be used to create dental crowns, you might be surprised to learn there are several options for you to choose from. Some of these include:
Should you have one of your front teeth become damaged, a ceramic dental crown will be the best choice. The reason is that since they live in a more visible area of your smile, they are designed to blend in with your regular teeth.
Patients who prefer greater stability can opt for a porcelain-fused to metal dental crown. Comprised of a porcelain crown, it is fused to a metal base. This allows the restoration to be much more durable.
Probably the most widely used types of crowns are made of gold alloy. Creating a strong bond, it won’t fracture or cause your natural tooth to wear down. There are some disadvantages to this type of crown, however. Because of its color and appearance, patients who would rather be more discreet about their dental work might prefer to choose a ceramic crown instead of gold.
Having a weakened tooth that is exposed to the elements is justification for a dental crown. You might think a filling is all you need, but after we examine your smile and better determine the cause for the decay and its severity, you’ll quickly understand why a dental crown is the best choice. Some of their benefits include:
Dental crowns are one of the most popular restorative dentistry services. After all, they can improve both the look and function of your smile simultaneously! If you’re interested in learning more about this treatment, then keep reading as we answer a few of the most frequently asked questions about dental crowns in Terrell.
If our dentist in Terrell recommends a dental crown, it’s important to schedule your treatment right away. Otherwise, your tooth is vulnerable to further damage. Plus, the decay or infection can spread to the surrounding teeth and gums, requiring a more extensive intervention. In short, the best way to preserve as much of your natural tooth as possible while protecting your oral health is to get a dental crown when your dentist first brings the area of concern to your attention.
Built to last, dental crowns have an average lifespan of 10-15 years. Of course, how long they last depend largely on how well you care for them. For example, if you smoke, neglect to brush your teeth, and skip your biannual checkups and cleanings, then it may only last a few years at most. Conversely, if you brush each morning and evening, floss daily, avoid unhealthy dental habits, and prioritize your six-month dental visits, there is a good chance it will last for well over a decade.
No, dental crowns cannot get cavities. However, the underlying tooth certainly can! That’s why it’s so important to implement a solid oral hygiene routine. Neglecting to do so can result in bacteria and plaque forming around the gumline, increasing your risk of oral health concerns like tooth decay and gum disease. Don’t worry – brushing regularly, flossing daily, and getting regular cleanings will all go a long way in preventing that from happening.
If you’re worried about the pain, don’t be – the first step is always to numb your tooth. Plus, we’re proud to offer our patients struggling with anxiety and nerves sedation dentistry, which will help you stay calm and comfortable in the treatment chair. Following your appointment, you may experience some sensitivity around the area, but this should subside over the next few days. In the meantime, you can place a cold compress against the outside of your cheek or take OTC pain relievers.
In short, yes! There are a few reasons for this. First, each dental crown is custom-made, ensuring it blends in seamlessly with your smile and suits your bite. Furthermore, they are comprised of high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the pressure of chewing. As a result, it won’t feel awkward or strange as you go about your day-to-day activities. The only time you may notice a slight difference is when you run your tongue along the arch of your teeth. With time, you likely won’t be able to tell a difference at all!
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