You may know what a dental crown is, but do you know how many dental problems a crown can correct? This is one dental trick that spans the gamut of restorative and cosmetic treatments. Read on to learn more about dental crowns and the many ways they can restore and enhance your smile.
WHY DO I NEED A DENTAL CROWN?
There are several dental problems that can be corrected with a crown. Here are a few:
- Dental crowns are frequently used to protect a tooth that has been weakened because of decay or breakage.
- If you have a cracked tooth, a crown can hold the parts together and prevent cleaving.
- Unusually worn teeth can be rebuilt with dental crowns.
- If a tooth-colored filling is not sufficient to repair a decayed tooth that has minimal structure left, then a dental crown is placed for coverage and support.
- Dental crowns are mounted on healthy teeth located on both sides of the gap in your smile in order to support a dental bridge.
- Cosmetically, a crown can be used to cover a tooth that is misshaped, severely discolored or in need of any other type of modification.
- Crowns are often the finishing touch after a dental implant has been set in the jawbone to replace a missing tooth.
WHAT IS A DENTAL CROWN MADE OF?
A crown can be made entirely of tooth-colored ceramic, porcelain-fused-to-metal or metal alloys. The one that is best for you will depend on the reason for placing the crown, where the crown will be located in your mouth and whether or not the crown will be visible whenever you smile or speak.
HOW IS A CROWN PLACED?
Receiving a dental crown typically requires scheduling two visits with the dentist about two weeks apart. At the first appointment, the tooth is prepared; the damaged or decayed portion of the tooth is removed and the tooth is reshaped in order to accommodate the crown.
There must be sufficient space for the crown to fit comfortably alongside adjacent teeth. In addition, the crown can’t sit too high or it will interfere with your bite. Therefore, some tooth structure is filed away from the chewing surface and the sides.
Once this step is completed, a temporary crown is placed so the tooth is still functional while the permanent crown is manufactured in a dental lab.
When you return for the next appointment, the temporary is gently removed and the permanent one is bonded to your tooth.
HOW DO I CARE FOR A DENTAL CROWN?
The same way you care for your natural teeth—with daily brushing and flossing and regularly scheduled dental checkups.
Questions? Call +254 718 994368 / 733 994368 or E-mail wecare@pathwayintl.co.ke
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