How Dental Crowns Protect Your Teeth from Further Damage?
When teeth are weakened or damaged, dental crowns offer a reliable way to support and restore them. They cover and strengthen fragile teeth, keeping them safe from further harm. Crowns are custom-made to fit over damaged teeth like a protective shell, ensuring both durability and a natural look. For those dealing with tooth fractures, decay, or even cosmetic concerns, crowns can be a lasting solution that keeps your smile looking its best.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns refer to the prosthetic devices used to restore the function, shape, and appearance of damaged teeth. They are often recommended when a tooth is too damaged for a filling or has undergone nerve treatment. Crowns can be made from various materials, including metal, ceramic, or a combination of both.
Dental crowns are often suggested when a tooth has been damaged, cracked, or weakened. Here are some common scenarios where crowns come in handy:
- Large fillings that weaken the tooth structure
- Severe decay where fillings can’t suffice
- Following a root canal to protect the treated tooth
- Repairing broken or worn-down teeth
In these cases, crowns provide a secure solution for reinforcing teeth that might otherwise be vulnerable to breakage or further decay.
How Do Dental Crowns Protect Your Teeth?
1. Reinforcing Weakened or Damaged Teeth
Over time, teeth can wear down from constant use, grinding, or trauma. Crowns cover these weakened teeth, adding strength and preventing further damage. This is especially important for teeth with large fillings, as these can leave the tooth prone to fractures.
2. Preventing Further Decay and Cavities
Crowns protect teeth from bacteria and decay by sealing off any cracks or vulnerable spots. With the dental crown in Calgary over the damaged tooth, bacteria can’t penetrate, effectively lowering the risk of future cavities or infection.
3. Restoring the Functionality of Your Bite
Missing parts of a tooth can make chewing difficult and uncomfortable. Crowns bring back the natural shape of your tooth, restoring your bite so you can eat comfortably. This way, you won’t have to avoid certain foods or struggle with discomfort.
4. Protecting Root Canals and Other Treatments
After a root canal, a tooth may become fragile. A crown acts as a shield over the treated tooth, preventing cracks or fractures that might otherwise occur. This is crucial for teeth that have already undergone significant treatment and need added support.
5. Aesthetic Improvement for Better Smiles
Besides protection, crowns improve the look of teeth. Misshapen or discolored teeth can be covered by a crown, blending in with your natural smile. This small fix can enhance your smile without extensive cosmetic work.
6. Long-Term Durability Against Wear and Tear
A well-made crown is built to last. Crowns are strong enough to withstand the force of daily biting and chewing. With proper care, a crown can serve you well for years, reducing the need for additional treatments or repairs.
7. Minimizing the Risk of Tooth Fractures
When teeth have been previously weakened by decay or damage, fractures become a real risk. Crowns offer a solid layer that absorbs pressure and prevents cracking, especially in back teeth that take on more chewing force.
8. Shielding Against Sensitivity and Discomfort
Enamel erosion or gum recession may cause sensitivity. Crowns cover exposed areas of the tooth, providing a barrier that can reduce or eliminate discomfort, especially with hot or cold foods.
9. Maintaining Overall Oral Health and Stability
A missing tooth or weakened structure can shift the alignment of your bite over time. Crowns stabilize the tooth and help maintain a balanced bite, keeping other teeth in place. This makes it much easier to keep good oral hygiene and prevents additional dental issues.
What to Expect During the Crown Procedure?
Getting a crown may sound intimidating, but it’s usually a straightforward process:
- Consultation and Preparation: Your dentist in Calgary examines the tooth and prepares it for the crown, which involves reshaping the tooth for a proper fit.
- Taking Impressions: An impression of your tooth is taken to ensure the crown fits precisely.
- Temporary Crown Placement: A temporary crown is settled while your permanent one is custom-made.
- Final Crown Placement: Once your crown is ready, the dentist places it, making any adjustments for comfort.
Is It Painful?
Most patients experience only minimal discomfort during the crown process. For added comfort, sedation alternatives are available to ensure a smooth experience.
Daily Care Tips for Your Dental Crown
Crowns don’t need special maintenance, but following a good dental routine helps them last. Here’s how you can take care of your crown:
- Brush Twice Daily: Make use of a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss Daily: Be gentle around the crown’s edges.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Try not to chew on ice or too hard candy, as these can damage the crown.
When to Schedule Check-Ups?
Regular dental check-ups are essential for crown longevity. Your dentist will check the crown’s fit, monitor any signs of wear, and ensure your surrounding teeth remain healthy. Schedule a visit to the dental clinic near you every six months.
Conclusion
Dental crowns near you provide lasting support for damaged teeth, making them a dependable choice for anyone facing dental concerns. By protecting and restoring teeth, crowns contribute to long-term oral health and help keep your smile strong and beautiful. Contact Chaparral Valley to discuss your options with a skilled dentist near you today. Book your appointment online or give us a call to get started on the road to a healthier smile!