Dental Crowns

What Are Dental Crowns

A dental crown, sometimes called a cap, is a restoration placed over a damaged or decaying tooth. It is designed to cover the entire visible tooth, creating a new, robust, and functional surface. Crowns come with recommendations when the underlying tooth structure becomes severely weakened or damaged, making supporting a filling or inlay impossible.

When Does One Need Dental Crowns

Dental crowns may be recommended for a range of dental issues, such as:

• To protect a weak tooth from further damage
• To support a tooth with a large filling
•  To restore a tooth that is fractured or broken 
• To cover a dental implant or a tooth that has had a root canal
• To improve the appearance of a discolored or misshapen tooth

Dental Crown Procedure

The process of placing dental crowns takes two visits. 

First Visit

1. Impressions: During the first visit, Dr. Tam or Dr. Chiem will take an impression of your tooth to create a custom crown. 
2. Prepare the Tooth: They will then prepare your tooth by removing any decay or damaged areas before shaping the remaining tooth to make room to place the crown. 
3. Temporary Crown: After this, your dentist will place a temporary crown over the prepared tooth while the permanent one is being made. This temporary crown protects the tooth while you wait for the new one to arrive. 

Second Visit

1. Cementing the New Crown: During the second visit, your dentist will remove and replace the temporary crown with the permanent one. They will then check how the crown fits and make necessary adjustments before cementing it.

How to Care For Your Dental Crown

Taking care of your dental crown is essential to ensure that it lasts. You should maintain good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice daily and flossing daily to prevent decay from forming under the crown. Additionally, you should avoid chewing hard or sticky foods, which can damage the crown. If you grind your teeth at night, your dentist may recommend a nightguard to protect your crown and the other teeth from further damage.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

There are many benefits to dental crowns, some of which include: 

• Restorative: Dental crowns are often the most appropriate way to restore a tooth when it has been weakened or damaged. 
• Maintaining Your Bite: They provide a long-lasting solution to help you maintain your natural bite and dental alignment while giving your teeth a renewed aesthetic appearance.
• Shape of Your Teeth: Dental crowns help restore the shape and size of the tooth.
• Appearance: By fixing decaying or damaged teeth, you also help to enhance the appearance of your teeth. It is also an excellent self-confidence boost! 
• Protection: With dental crowns, you can ensure protection against further damage.

Dental Crowns in Plano, TX

Dental crowns are ideal for cracked, chipped, or damaged teeth. They restore your teeth’ shape, size, and strength while improving your smile. Dental crowns can last for many years with proper care, making them a worthwhile investment. Visit us at Custerpoint Dental if a dental crown is the solution for you. Dr. Tam and Dr. Chiem can evaluate your teeth, discuss options, and answer any questions you might have so that you can make an informed decision. Though dental crowns are an investment, they provide a long-lasting solution, and a return on your investment means that your teeth will remain strong, healthy, and functional for years to come.

Please schedule a consultation with us at Custerpoint Dental today!