As we age, our teeth weaken and become more susceptible to damage and decay. Whether this damage is from everyday activities, injuries, or genetics, damage to your tooth can be uncomfortable and significantly impact your self-esteem. If you’ve struggled with damaged or decayed teeth or have a dental imperfection that you would like to cover, dental crowns from Central Davis Dental might be the solution you’ve been looking for.
What are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns, also known as a tooth crown, are a versatile dental restoration designed to cover and protect teeth that have been damaged, weakened due to age or genetics, or are aesthetically flawed. These custom-made caps are designed to fit perfectly over the prepared tooth, providing you with structural support and a more natural appearance.
Crowns serve multiple important purposes. They are used to restore extensively decayed or fractured teeth, ensuring the preservation of the remaining tooth structure and preventing deterioration. They may also be utilized following root canal treatments. Following the procedure, dental crowns can reinforce and safeguard treated teeth that may be more susceptible to damage.
Additionally, crowns are a wonderful way to improve the appearance of your teeth. They can enhance the aesthetic of misshapen, discolored, or misaligned teeth, creating a smile you’ll love. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, they play a crucial role in supporting dental bridges, anchoring them in place, and closing the gap between missing teeth.
Whether you want to improve the appearance of your smile or strengthen and protect compromised teeth, dental crowns are a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution to meet your dental needs.
Understanding the Process
Getting a tooth crown typically involves several steps to ensure the final restoration fits comfortably in your mouth and blends seamlessly with the rest of your teeth. The procedure includes:
- Consultation: You will start this process by meeting with your dentist for a consultation. At this appointment, they will examine your teeth and discuss your specific needs and concerns. If a dental crown is the best solution, they will develop a treatment plan.
- Preparation: During the first appointment, the tooth will be prepared for the crown. This preparation can include the removal of decayed or damaged portions and reshaping the tooth to create the strongest foundation for the crown. Your dental team will then take an impression to ensure your crown fits your tooth well.
- Temporary crown: While your crown is being fabricated, a temporary crown may be put in place to protect the prepared tooth. While wearing the temporary crown, you may want to avoid chewy or sticky foods to avoid any additional damage to your tooth.
- Final placement: At your second appointment, the temporary crown is removed, and your permanent crown is placed over the prepared tooth. Your dentist ensures it fits properly, aligns with your bite, and looks natural. Once these final details are confirmed, the crown is securely cemented into place.
Because crowns are permanently cemented into place, it is important to us that they match the shape and shade of your teeth perfectly. We won’t place a crown until you are 100% satisfied, so don’t hesitate to tell your doctor if there are changes you would like us to make. It is our goal to create the most comfortable, beautiful crown possible for your smile.
Adjusting to Your Dental Crowns
Following the placement of a tooth crown, a period of adjustment is common as you acclimate to this restoration tool. You may experience sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures initially, but this typically diminishes over time. If you experience sensitivity, using toothpaste for sensitive teeth and avoiding excessively hot or cold foods and beverages can help manage this sensitivity.
You may also notice changes in chewing as you adapt to the altered tooth structure. To make this adjustment easier, you may want to start with softer foods and gradually reintroduce harder and crunchier foods to make this transition smoother. It is important that you maintain excellent oral hygiene, especially around the crown, to prevent any gum issues or decay.
Regular brushing and flossing, along with regular visits to your dentist, are essential for ensuring the longevity of your crown. With proper maintenance, your crown should last 15 to 30 years. As your mouth adjusts, initial discomfort should gradually subside, leaving you with a strong, natural-looking tooth that boosts your smile and improves overall oral function. If you continue to experience discomfort or irritation, you should reach out to your dentist for guidance.
Transform Your Smile with Central Davis Dental
If you’re ready to transform your smile and protect your teeth from any additional damage during day-to-day activities, don’t wait any longer. Central Davis Dental is here to help you regain your confidence and improve your oral health. Contact our team today to schedule your dental crown appointment. Our team of expert dental providers makes this a smooth process from start to finish. Don’t delay; your more beautiful smile is just an appointment away!