Your smile says a lot about you. But when your teeth aren’t in great shape, you might find yourself hiding your smile. If that sounds like you, then you might be a good candidate for dental crowns.
But what are dental crowns? Today, we’ll explore what they are, the many benefits they bring, and what you can expect if you decide to get them.
What Are Dental Crowns?
The word “crown” may be misleading. It may be easier to picture it as more of a “cap,” a prosthetic designed to look, feel, and act just like a natural tooth. A crown is placed over a damaged or discolored tooth, dramatically improving your smile.
The Benefits of Dental Crowns
Over-the-counter tooth whitening kits can be effective for some, but few things rival the immediate change of dental crowns, especially for patients who suffer from damaged or decayed teeth.
Dental crowns offer the following benefits:
- A whiter, more confident smile
- Ability to replace missing teeth, keeping your other teeth aligned
- Allows you to replace broken teeth so that you can eat normally
Unlike whitening kits that require frequent applications, dental crowns can achieve instant results and restore a patient’s ability to chew normally.
Types of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns come in a variety of types and materials. These include:
- Porcelain
- Ceramic
- Metal alloy
- Porcelain-metal fusion
- Resin
- BruxZir
These materials can vary in appearance and performance. Porcelain crowns, for example, can mimic natural teeth, but they tend to wear down faster. To know which type of material may be best for your needs and your budget, talk with your dentist.
Signs that You Need a Dental Crown
Dental crowns are great for patients who experience any of the following:
- Missing teeth
- Chipped or damaged teeth
- Discolored or stained teeth
- A need to reinforce teeth that have large fillings
- Weak teeth
Dental crowns can also be used for children who suffer from damaged or decayed teeth.
How Does the Procedure Work?
The procedure is surprisingly simple and can usually be completed in two visits.
During the first visit, your dentist will examine and prepare your teeth. Usually, this includes taking a few X-rays. Then the dentist will numb the area and prepare your tooth to receive the crown.
Your dentist will use a paste to determine the shape of the tooth, which will then be used to fabricate the crown.
During your second visit, your dentist will verify that the crown matches your tooth color and then they will fit your permanent crown.
How Do I Care for Dental Crowns?
Your dental crown will look and feel like your other teeth, though there are still some things to consider when it comes to caring for your crown.
Here are some of the things that you should do to help your crown last as long as possible:
- Brush and floss your teeth regularly
- Avoid sugary foods
- Avoid chewing hard foods, such as candy or ice
- Visit your dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups
Caring for your teeth is important. While your crown will not decay, the tooth underneath still can.
Get Your Crowns from Rancho San Diego
When you’re ready to take the next step, book an appointment with the team Rancho San Diego. Our friendly dental professionals rely on the latest tools to offer our patients a comfortable, comprehensive experience. It’s time to show the world your smile. Contact us to learn more about crowns today!
