Dental crowns provide the protection and beauty you are looking for, but deciding whether or not to get a crown and choosing the right type of crown can seem daunting. You’ve probably seen dazzling celebrity smiles on magazine covers with pristine, brilliantly white teeth—but achieving that kind of smile requires some work.
At Keels Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we recognize the significance of the following restoring and enhancing the appearance and functionality of your teeth. Dental crowns are an adaptable and reliable remedy for a variety of dental issues.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns, or cap restorations as they are more frequently known, caps, are created to order tooth-shaped prosthetic devices that cover the entire visible portion of a tooth. They are designed to restore a tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance while protecting it from further damage or decay.
Purposes of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns serve several important purposes, including:
- Restoring Damaged Teeth: Crowns can repair teeth that are chipped, cracked, or severely worn down.
- Protecting Weakened Teeth: They strengthen and protect teeth that have undergone root canal treatment, reducing the risk of fracture.
- Supporting Dental Bridges: Crowns are used to anchor dental bridges, replacing missing teeth and restoring bite function.
- Enhancing Aesthetics: Crowns can improve the appearance of discolored, misshapen, or poorly aligned teeth.
- Covering Dental Implants: Crowns are placed on top of dental implants to replace missing teeth.
- Preventing Tooth Decay: They can seal and protect teeth at high risk of decay.
Types of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns come in various materials, each with its own advantages and considerations:
- Porcelain Crowns: These crowns closely imitate the look of real teeth, making them a great option for people who want to improve their smile front teeth.
- Metal Crowns: Metal crowns, such as gold or silver alloy, are incredibly durable and resistant to wear. They are often used for back teeth.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: These crowns combine the durability of metal combined with the refined beauty of porcelain, creating them suitable for both front and back teeth.
- All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain Crowns: These crowns offer excellent aesthetics and are metal-free, making them a popular choice for visible front teeth.
- Zirconia Crowns: Known for their strength and durability, zirconia crowns are a versatile option for various teeth.
Advantages of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns offer several advantages:
- Restoration of Function: Crowns restore the biting and chewing function of damaged or missing teeth.
- Protection: They protect weakened teeth from further damage and reduce the risk of fractures.
- Enhanced Aesthetics: Crowns improve the appearance of teeth, restoring confidence in your smile.
- Durability: Depending on the material chosen, crowns can last many years with proper care.
- Versatility: Crowns are suitable for a wide range of dental issues.
Potential Drawbacks of Dental Crowns
While dental crowns offer numerous benefits, it’s essential to be aware of potential drawbacks:
- Cost: Crowns can be relatively expensive, depending on the material chosen.
- Tooth Reduction: To accommodate the crown, a portion of the patient’s natural tooth structure needs to be taken away first.
- Sensitivity: Following treatment, some patients may have momentary sensitivity in their teeth crown placement.
- Maintenance: Regular oral hygiene and care are necessary to maintain the crown’s longevity.
- Material Selection: Choosing the right crown material is crucial for optimal aesthetics and function.
Choosing Dental Crowns
Selecting dental crowns as a solution involves careful consideration of various factors:
1. Professional Assessment: Consult with your check with your dentist to see if dental crowns are the right solution for your particular case dental issue.
2. Crown Material: Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different crown materials to select the one that fulfills all of your requirements while also satisfying your aesthetic requirements.
3. Treatment Plan: Work closely with your dentist in order to develop a detailed treatment strategy that is specific to your unique dental requirements and goals.
4. Budget and Insurance: Understand the cost of the crowns and check if your dental insurance covers the procedure.
5. Aftercare: Be prepared to follow post-crown placement care recommendations given to you by your dentist to protect your health and safety and the longevity of your restoration.
6. Long-Term Maintenance: Commit to maintaining your oral hygiene and attending regular dental check-ups to monitor the condition of your crowns.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Proper aftercare and maintenance are essential for ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of your dental crowns:
- Oral Hygiene: Maintain excellent oral hygiene by following the instructions given to you by your dentist regarding how often you should brush, floss, and use mouthwash.
- Regular Dental Check-Ups: Attend scheduled dental check-up appointments as recommended to monitor the condition of your crowns and address any concerns promptly.
- Dietary Choices: Be mindful of your dietary choices, particularly avoiding foods and habits that may damage or stain your crowns.
- Protective Measures: Consider wearing a mouthguard if you engage in activities that may put your crowns at risk of damage, such as sports or teeth grinding.
- Replace Old Crowns: Be prepared to replace old or damaged crowns to maintain optimal functionality and aesthetics.
Trust Us for Expert Dental Treatment & Procedures!
At Keels Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, our dedication revolves around delivering top-tier dental crowns tailored to your unique needs and oral health goals. Ensuring the highest quality service for each client is our commitment, achieved through our experienced team of dentists utilizing state-of-the-art techniques, modern materials, and an individualized approach.
If you’re contemplating dental crowns and feel uncertain about the process or have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Schedule a consultation at your earliest convenience, and we’ll guide you through the details and address any queries you may have.
Your oral health is our priority, and we’re here to provide the best possible care for your smile.