Are Dental Crowns Right for You?

Dental crowns may be the right solution if you have significant tooth decay, cracked or fractured teeth, have undergone root canal treatment, have large fillings, experience severe tooth wear, or seek cosmetic enhancement for misshapen or discolored teeth. These versatile restorations offer functional and aesthetic benefits, strengthening and protecting damaged teeth while enhancing your smile's appearance. Consulting with our dentist in Louis, MO, is crucial to determine if dental crowns suit your specific dental needs, ensuring optimal oral health and satisfaction with your smile. 

Signs You Might Need a Crown 

• A dental crown may be necessary if you have a tooth with extensive decay that cannot be effectively treated with a simple filling. Crowns provide the strength and stability to protect the remaining tooth structure and prevent further decay. 

• Teeth that are cracked or fractured due to trauma or biting on hard objects often require crowns. A crown can hold the pieces of a cracked tooth together and protect it from further damage, restoring its function and appearance. 

• Teeth undergoing root canal treatment are typically weakened and more susceptible to fractures. A crown is usually placed over the treated tooth to reinforce its structure and protect it from future damage. 

• Teeth with large fillings, especially those covering more than half of the tooth, are at a higher risk of breaking. Crowns, on the other hand, provide a more durable and long-term solution by covering and protecting the entire tooth. 

• Teeth that have become severely worn down due to grinding (bruxism) or erosion need crowns to restore their original shape and size. Crowns help to improve bite alignment and protect the teeth from further wear. 

• If you have teeth that are misshapen, discolored, or have other cosmetic imperfections, crowns can enhance their appearance. Porcelain or ceramic crowns are particularly effective for improving the aesthetics of your smile. 

• When you have missing teeth, a dental bridge can fill the gap. Crownsare placed on the adjacent teeth (abutment teeth) to support the bridge, effectively restoring the function and appearance of the missing teeth. 

• Overly sensitive teeth, especially those with significant enamel loss, can benefit from crowns. Crowns in Louis, MO, provide a protective barrier, reducing sensitivity and improving comfort. 

The Dental Crown Procedure

Initial Consultation 

During the first visit, your dentist will examine the affected tooth, take X-rays, and discuss treatment options. If a crown is deemed necessary, the dentist will explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have. 

Tooth Preparation 

To accommodate the crown, the tooth is prepared by removing a small amount of enamel from its surface. This ensures a proper fit for the crown without adding bulk to the tooth. 

Impression Taking 

After tooth preparation, dental putty or digital scanning technology takes impressions of the tooth and surrounding teeth. These impressions serve as a blueprint for fabricating the custom crown. 

Temporary Crown Placement 

While the permanent crown is fabricated in a dental laboratory, a temporary crown is placed over the prepared tooth to protect it from damage and maintain aesthetics. 

Crown Placement 

Once the permanent crown is ready, usually within two to three weeks, you'll return to the dentist for crown placement. The temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is carefully fitted, adjusted, and cemented into place. 

Final Adjustments 

Your dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure proper fit, occlusion (bite), and aesthetics. Once satisfied with the results, the crown is polished to a natural shine, completing the restoration process. Contact us today!

How to Care for Your Dental Crowns

Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene 

Regular brushing and flossing are essential for keeping dental crowns clean and plaque buildup-free. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to gently brush your crowns twice daily, paying attention to the gumline where plaque can accumulate. Remember to floss between your crowns and natural teeth to remove food particles and plaque from hard-to-reach areas. 

Use Oral Care Products Recommended by Your Dentist 

Your dentist may recommend specific oral care products suitable for maintaining dental crowns, such as toothpaste or mouthwash. These products may contain fluoride or other ingredients to protect and strengthen your crowns while preventing decay and gum disease. Follow your dentist's recommendations for optimal oral hygiene. 

Avoid Chewy, Sticky, or Hard Foods 

While dental crowns are durable, they are not indestructible. Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, pens, or hard candies, as this can cause damage to your crowns. Also, avoid sticky or chewy foods that could dislodge or damage your crowns. Opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to support oral and overall health. 

Protect Your Crowns from Trauma 

If you participate in sports or activities that pose a risk of dental injury, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your crowns and natural teeth. A custom-fitted mouthguard provided by your dentist offers the best protection against trauma during sports or recreational activities. Similarly, avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages or tear objects, as this can put unnecessary stress on your crowns and increase the risk of damage. 

Schedule Regular Dental Check-Ups 

Routine dental check-ups are essential for monitoring the health and integrity of your dental crowns. During these visits, our dentist will examine your crowns for signs of wear, damage, or other issues. Professional cleanings will also help remove any plaque or tartar buildup that could compromise the longevity of your crowns. Follow your dentist's recommended schedule for check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal oral health. 

Dental crowns are an excellent solution for various dental problems, offering functional and aesthetic benefits. Visit Karen J Harris & Associates at 2000 Locust, St. Louis, MO 63103, or call (314) 231-4893 to determine if a dental crown is the right treatment for your needs.