How Dental Crowns Work

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that encases a damaged tooth. A crown can also attach to a dental implant to replace a missing tooth. A dental crown can be fabricated from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, composite resin, and zirconia. Dr. Turner enjoys using all-porcelain crowns since they are extremely durable and highly attractive.

Understanding Dental Crown Candidacy

Crowns are very versatile and can be effective in a variety of circumstances. They are frequently used to repair a decayed tooth that is too damaged for a dental filling. A crown can also restore a tooth that has received root canal treatment. Used cosmetically, crowns can whiten deeply stained teeth that do not respond to professional teeth whitening treatments. Dental crowns can help treat or restore:

• Misaligned bite
• Chewing function
• Clarity of speech
• Teeth that are chipped
• Teeth that are cracked
• Misshaped or small teeth
• Discolored teeth
• Weak or structurally compromised teeth
• Missing teeth (when paired with a dental implant)

Good candidates should have healthy gums. Any oral health conditions or issues must be treated prior to dental crown placement. Dr. Turner will examine your teeth and jaw to determine if you have adequate tooth and underlying bone mass for the procedure. Candidates should also be willing to properly care for their dental crowns by avoiding hard foods and scheduling regular cleanings and exams.

The Dental Crown Process

To place your dental crown, Dr. Turner will first numb the treatment area so that you will be comfortable. He will then shape the tooth that will receive the crown for a secure fit. Dr. Turner will take impressions of your tooth to send to our lab for the creation of your crown. Depending on the location of the damaged tooth, you may receive a temporary crown.

Dr. Turner is very experienced at restoring teeth with dental crowns, and he places a high priority on your comfort during treatment.

A ceramist at the dental lab will fabricate your crown to our exact specifications. If your crown will be highly visible, you may meet with our trusted lab technician in person to ensure your crown is matched precisely with the natural shade of your smile. When your crown is completed, you will return to our office to have it strongly bonded in place. Dr. Turner will polish your crown to smooth the surface and ensure proper bite alignment.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are a proven, time-tested dental procedure that offer both restorative and cosmetic benefits.

Restorative Benefits

Your dental crown should alleviate any discomfort you are experiencing and restore your proper bite. An even bite is less likely to cause wear on your teeth and can add years to the life of your smile. A dental crown can repair damage while also preserving the healthy part of your tooth. In fact, a dental crown can strengthen your tooth by reinforcing the outer structure. Retaining your own tooth root will help you maintain bone mass in your jaw and promote oral health. Dental crowns can also support other restorative treatments, such as a dental bridge.

Cosmetic Benefits

Made of high-quality porcelain, your dental crown will look natural and indistinguishable from your natural teeth. Porcelain is durable and resistant to stains. An implant-supported crown can restore full dental function and eliminate the gap in your smile. As long as you take good care of your dental crown it should last for many years. Among other cosmetic benefits, dental crowns can:

• Correct mishapped or small teeth
• Mask discolored teeth
• Improve tooth alignment
• Conceal a dental implant
• Prevent adjacent teeth from drifting
• Brighten your smile
• Help fill sunken cheeks

Tips for Maintaining Your Dental Crown

Dental crowns are not built to last forever, but careful maintenance can ensure that they last 10 years or longer. A few tips to preserve the appearance and strength of your crown include:

• Never use your teeth or crown to tear open packages or bottles.
• Avoid hard foods and candy that can crack or damage crowns.
• Brush your teeth twice each day and floss in a front to back motion rather than up and down to avoid pulling on the base of your dental crown.
• Avoid sticky foods that can pull or dislodge your crown.
• Visit our office twice a year, since exams and x-rays can help identify potential crown damage early.
• Maintain a healthy diet and avoid excess sugar and acid.
• Use mouthwash to maintain healthy gums but avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes that may compromise the bonding agent used to place your dental crowns.
• Wear a mouthguard at night if you experience bruxism (teeth grinding).
• Wear a protective mouthguard while playing contact sports.

While your dental crown will protect the visible portion of your tooth, your natural root is still susceptible to gum disease and root decay. Any habits that compromise the health of your jawbones, such as tobacco use and untreated periodontitis, can place you at risk of tooth loss, even with a dental crown. Patients should treat their dental crown with the same care they give their natural teeth.

Improve Your Smile Today

With proper cleanings, regular dental visits, and good oral hygiene habits, your dental crown can last 10 years or longer. Dr. Turner is very experienced at restoring teeth with dental crowns, and he places a high priority on your comfort during treatment. Every two years, Dr. Turner and his team complete 100 hours of continuing education to ensure they understand the most up-to-date oral health techniques. To schedule an appointment, contact us online today or call (816) 229-1433.