When you think of dental crowns, what comes to mind? For many people, the first thing that comes to mind is a Hollywood smile.
So, what exactly is a dental crown? A dental crown is a cap that is placed over a tooth. It is usually made of porcelain, metal, or ceramic. Dental crowns often improve the appearance of teeth that are cracked, chipped, or discolored.
At Oak Lawn Smiles Family Dentistry in Oak Lawn, IL, we offer high-quality dental crowns that are custom-made to fit your teeth, giving you a beautiful, dazzling smile. Our experienced and skilled dentists will work with you to determine if dental crowns are the right option.
Reasons Some Teeth Need Dental Crowns
There are several reasons why some teeth need dental crowns. Here are the following reasons:
Teeth Weakened by Decay or Injury
One reason is that the tooth has been weakened by decay or injury. When a tooth is weakened, it is more likely to break or fracture. A dental crown can help to protect the tooth and prevent weakened teeth from breaking.
Damaged From Teeth Grinding
Another reason some teeth need dental crowns is because they have been damaged by grinding or clenching. Damaged teeth from these issues are more likely to break or fracture. A dental crown can help to protect the tooth by providing extra support.
Discolored or Misshapen Teeth
In addition, some teeth need dental crowns because they are misshapen or discolored. Teeth with these issues don’t look their best. A dental crown does wonders to help improve the aesthetics of teeth.
Support Needed for a Dental Bridge
Finally, some teeth need dental crowns because they support a dental bridge. A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth and is attached to the teeth on either side of the space left by the missing tooth.
Step-by-Step Process for a Dental Crown
The first step in the process is to meet with your dentist to discuss your treatment options. During this visit, your dentist will examine your teeth and determine if dental crowns are the right option for you.
If you and your dentist decide that dental crowns are the right solution, the next step is to prepare your teeth. That involves removing any decay or damaged tooth structure. Once the decay or damaged tooth structure has been removed, your dentist will take an impression of your teeth.
The impression of your teeth is used to make a model of your mouth. This model is used to create your dental crown.
While your dental crown is being made, the dentist will fit you with a temporary crown. The temporary crown will protect your tooth while you wait for the construction of your permanent crown.
When your permanent crown is ready, you will return to the dentist to have it placed. First, your dentist will remove the temporary crown. Then, your dentist will place the permanent crown over your tooth and secure it.
How Can I Make My Crown Last?
Dental crowns can last 15 years or longer, but they may need an early replacement in some cases. But there are a few things you can do to help make your crown last:
Practice Good Oral Hygiene and Maintenance
Good oral hygiene is important for everyone, but it’s especially important for people with dental crowns. Be sure to brush your teeth twice daily and floss at least once daily. In addition, it’s essential to see your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
Avoid Chewing on Hard Foods
Chewing hard food can stress your dental crown unnecessarily and cause it to become loose or break. To avoid this, avoid chewing on hard foods, such as ice, nuts, or candy.
Work With Our Dentist to Find Solutions for Tooth Grinding
If you grind your teeth, it’s crucial to find a solution. Tooth grinding can stress your dental crown and cause it to become loose or break. Our dentist can help you find a solution for tooth grinding, such as a mouth guard.
Select Durable Materials for Your Dental Crown
When selecting a material for your dental crown, it’s crucial to choose a durable option. Porcelain and ceramic are two long-lasting selections that can help to make your crown withstand time.
However, metal crowns are often the most durable choice. Therefore, a metal crown is your best option if durability is more important to you than aesthetics.
Contact Oak Lawn Smiles Family Dentistry Today!
Dental crowns are an effective treatment for many dental problems. Contact our office to schedule an appointment to see if dental crowns work for you. During your appointment, we will discuss your treatment options and help you choose the best solution for your needs.
We offer a variety of dental crown materials, such as porcelain, ceramic, and metal. We will work with you to find the best material for your needs. We also offer financing options to make treatment more affordable.
Please don’t wait to get the treatment you need. Instead, contact our office today to schedule an appointment in Oak Lawn, IL. We look forward to hearing from you!
