Dental crowns have been used for decades, but in more recent years the procedures and materials used to create and affix dental crowns has become more advanced. Crowns are an excellent solution to many dental issues, including the need to restore a tooth to its original or a more perfected state. Applying a dental crown takes precision and skill; therefore, it is essential to look for a dental group that has a reputation for quality work. In this article, we’ll go over the basics of what you need to know about dental crowns.
Why Crowns Are Useful in Dentistry
Dental crowns serve a number of purposes in the field of dentistry, including cosmetic and practical applications. Depending on your individual needs and your dentist’s expertise, you may come across a time when a dental crown is right for you. These are the most common uses for dental crowns:
Cosmetic Applications
Dental crowns are perfect for covering a damaged tooth that is beyond repair, covering a dental implant making it appear more like a natural tooth, or to make cosmetic alterations to someone’s smile. For cosmetic reasons alone, dental crowns can help to create a beautiful, seamless smile.
Practical Applications
Dental crowns also have many practical applications in dentistry, including: holding a dental bridge in the right position and protecting a tooth from breaking apart or keeping an already broken tooth held together.
Types of Crowns
Dental crowns can either be permanent or temporary. For instance, when holding a bridge in place, it might only be a temporary period of time that the patient needs the bridge, and eventually the crown and bridge can both be removed. Additionally, crowns can also be made of different materials.
Ceramic or Porcelain
Today, ceramic or porcelain crowns are at the forefront of dental technology. They are the most natural-looking dental crowns that blend seamlessly with other teeth. Furthermore, they work well for individuals who have allergies to other materials typically used for crowns.
Metal
Metal crowns aren’t used as often in practice anymore because they don’t blend with the teeth’s natural color; however, they are highly durable and mostly chip-resistant.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel dental crowns are mostly used as a transitory option while a patient waits for a more permanent solution, such as a ceramic crown. Stainless steel crowns are most often used for children.
The Process of Developing a Crown
The process of developing a dental crown usually involves a few steps. Initially your dentist will want to make a thorough assessment of the area to determine what other procedures might need to take place to best prepare the tooth for the crown application. For instance, a root canal might be necessary to avoid infection. Your dentist will also need to take an impression of the tooth so that the crown can fit perfectly over it. Then, a dental crown is produced that matches your smile and teeth color.
How to Take Care of Your Dental Crown
Dental crowns are designed to be durable for over a decade, but they can last longer if they are properly maintained. The good news is dental crowns can be well-taken-care-of with simple oral hygiene practices like regular brushing, flossing, and teeth cleanings. Unfortunately, dental crowns are not immune to the same issues that regular teeth may face; they can crack, decay, and be susceptible to disease. It is helpful to have a dental hygiene routine in place and keep extra floss with you.
How We Can Help You
For many people, going to the dentist can be uncomfortable. That’s why it’s important to have a dental practice you can trust. Since 1963 the Dental Group of Simi Valley has remained family-owned and operated. We focus on making our clients feel comfortable and at ease, providing them with gentle and efficient dental work. We use CEREC® technology for our single-visit dental crown procedures, making crown applications quick, simple, and accurate. We offer comprehensive treatment planning for all our patients so that their dental needs will be taken care of efficiently. If you would like to learn more about our practice or procedures, or would like to request an appointment, please look over our website or contact us directly. We look forward to helping you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile.
