Has your dentist said, “you may need a dental crown“? This can sound like a difficult or invasive procedure, but dental crowns are common and require very little time in your provider’s office. Dental crowns can help protect your teeth and treat issues related to infection or decay. And because they look realistic, they can even improve the appearance of your smile. Learn more about dental crowns by contacting your dentist today.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a cap that covers the top of your tooth. Your general dentist may opt to use a crown if your tooth is fractured, cracked, worn down, or weak for another reason. One benefit of dental crowns is that they both protect your teeth and also help your smile look its best.
There are two methods your dentist might follow to place a crown. Traditional dental
crowns require two trips to your dentist. During the first visit, your dentist will make a mold of your tooth. You’ll bite down in a putty-filled tray to make an impression of your
tooth. Your dentist will then have the crown manufactured. During your second visit,
your dentist will place the crown, bonding it to your tooth. To protect your tooth in
between visits, you’ll receive a temporary crown which can be easily removed.
The other type of dental crown procedure is a same-day crown. This procedure only
requires one visit to your dentist’s office. Instead of creating a physical impression of
your tooth, your dentist will create a digital model using a 3D camera. They will then
create a crown while you wait, placing the crown the same day. This eliminates the
need for a temporary crown and a second visit.
To learn more about the dental crown options your dentist offers, contact them today.
Do You Need a Dental Crown?
If you fit the following criteria, you might need a dental crown:
- Cracked tooth – Have you cracked a tooth from biting down on something hard or from trauma to your mouth?
- Decay – Is the tissue inside of your tooth infected?
- Large filling – Has the structure of your tooth been weakened by a large filling?
- Misshapen tooth – A crown can restore your tooth to full functionality
- Discolored tooth – A crown can help your teeth look their best
- Pain or sensitivity – These could be signs of infection or decay
If you are concerned about an oral health issue, contact your dentist. They can determine whether or not you need a dental crown.
Once your crown is placed, make sure to take care of it. Practicing good oral hygiene habits like brushing twice a day, flossing, and avoiding certain foods will keep your crown in good shape. Hard candy and ice crunching could potentially damage your crown. By visiting your dentist twice a year, you can also catch any potential issues before they turn into major problems.
Our General Dentistry Services in Columbia
At Columbia Smiles, we provide a variety of dental services to help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Our general dentistry services include:
- Routine teeth cleanings
- Dental exams
- Preventative treatments
- Cosmetic dentistry services like teeth whitening and porcelain veneers
- Dental fillings
If your tooth is cracked or damaged, you might benefit from a dental crown. Our dentists in Columbia can place a dental crown that will improve the strength and appearance of your tooth. To learn more about dental crowns and other dental procedures, contact Columbia Smiles at 410.690.4855 today. Our team will walk you through the steps of the procedure, answer your questions, and help you feel at ease about the dental crown process.
