Dental crowns are structures that encapsulate a tooth from the top of the tooth to the gum line. No matter how well you take care of your teeth at home, some forms of tooth damage cannot be prevented or reversed. Modern medicine has enabled dentists to protect damaged or vulnerable teeth through the use of dental crowns.
Our dentist may recommend one or more dental crowns for a variety of reasons. Most commonly, the tooth receiving a crown has cracked or is already broken. Crowns are also used to cover misshapen or severely discolored teeth, add bulk to thin teeth and hide the appearance of dental implants. Dental crowns can be used for both back and front teeth.
The type of crown material our dentist will choose for their patient depends on what the crown is used to fix and its placement in the mouth, among other factors. Temporary crowns that will eventually be removed are made from resin due to the material’s flexibility. More permanent crowns are typically made from a combination of ceramic, metal and porcelain. Metal is the strongest material and incorporated into teeth with the strongest bite. When used to encapsulate a front tooth, the metal is then covered with specially-dyed porcelain to match the color and texture of the surrounding natural teeth.
Prior to performing a dental crown placement, our dentist will first order X-rays to determine the extent of the tooth’s damage. Signs of infection in the roots will make a root canal necessary. Once the patient is ready for their dental crown, our dentist can move forward with the procedure.
After placement, patients with dental crowns may encounter similar problems faced by patients who’ve received tooth sealant; they mistakenly believe the treated tooth is now forever safe from decay. This is not true. Regardless of crowns and other dental work, it’s vital for the patient to maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine with regular brushing and flossing throughout the day. The presence of one rotten tooth will weaken the integrity of other nearby teeth, leading to further mouth and jaw problems, including infections.
Talk to our team at Parkwood Dental to see if dental crowns can benefit you. We have offices in East and West Bradenton. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get started.
