A lack of adequate oral hygiene habits can result in deteriorating teeth, bleeding gums, limited function, and so much more. Unfortunately, these types of issues are guaranteed if you neglect your oral health, and will certainly lead to a lower quality of life.
Luckily, there are methods to correct tooth decay and its accompaniying complications. The most common of these are dental fillings, which fill in vulnerable areas of the tooth after removing the damaged bits. As common as this method is, it may prove inadequate for certain patients and may eventually need to be refilled years later.
This is where dental crowns shine, posing as the superior alternative for teeth that need a more permanent fix.
Let’s get to the root of what dental crowns are, the process behind them, and the unique advantages they boast.
What Are They?
Usually porcelain or ceramic in material, dental crowns are durable and capable of fixed prosthetic devices. Molded to perfectly cover decayed, discolored, or even cracked teeth- they are completely customizable. A dental professional can curate the perfect crown, crafted to match the patient’s exact tooth colour and shape which ensures a uniform aesthetic and natural-looking smile.
Dental crowns are celebrated for helping patients restore the intended functionality of their smiles, and if maintained properly, will last as long as fifteen years. Their resilience is due to the dynamic range of materials they may be crafted from, including; ceramic, porcelain, resin, stainless steel, and more. Patients seldom have to worry about dental crowns decaying or coming loose over time, and can skip those pesky teeth fillings down the road.
Why Are They the Perfect Fit?
Dental crowns have been gaining more and more traction within the dental community. A long-term solution, restoring the look and feel of a smile while halting tooth deterioration is a bonus. However, the advantages reach far beyond the aforementioned points;
- Holds cracked and damaged teeth firmly together.
- Protects a tooth after a root canal procedure.
- Utilized for dental implants.
- Used to cover cavities that are too dire for fillings.
- Most effective protection for a tooth with a history of decay.
- Assists in the reshaping process of your teeth.
- Natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing.
- Their sturdiness will ensure more free time and fewer dental appointments down the road.
- May last up to 15 years before needing any touch ups.
Remember, these are only some of the benefits unique to dental crowns and we want to ensure our clients understand as many details as possible. If you are considering this procedure or seeking to learn even more ways it may enhance your oral health, we encourage you to get in touch.
How Does the Process Unfold?
A dental crown is no small feat and may require you to venture into the dental office more than just once. Depending on the severity of your situation, how many crowns you need in place, and any other oral health issues present in your smile- your procedure may differ from others. However, the minor inconvenience of a few checkups will likely save you precious time, unbearable pain, and significant money in the years ahead.
Firstly, a dentist must perform a complete X-ray of your smile. This is then followed by filing down and removing parts of the damaged teeth, and collecting fragments to craft an accurate impression. Once done, the dentist will begin to prepare the mold.
In the next visit, the dentist will then place the dental crown into the previously prepared area of the oral anatomy. The whole process is flawless, cost-efficient, and provides a beautiful and longstanding remedy to deteriorating areas of a smile.
Each patient has a unique smile, requiring a professional eye capable of determining the most appropriate procedure to best elevate their oral anatomy. If you’re eager to begin the process of restoring your smile, or have any thoughts, questions, or concerns regarding dental crowns or any other topic, reach out to a dental professional today!
