Understanding Dental Crowns

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that encases the entire visible portion of a tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are commonly used to protect, restore, or enhance teeth that are weakened, broken, or discolored.

Common Uses of Dental Crowns

• Protecting Weak Teeth: Preventing fractures in teeth weakened by decay or large fillings.
• Restoring Broken Teeth: Rebuilding teeth that have been cracked or severely worn down.
• Supporting Dental Bridges: Anchoring dental bridges in place.
• Covering Dental Implants: Serving as the visible tooth portion atop an implant.
• Enhancing Aesthetics: Concealing discolored or misshapen teeth to improve appearance.

Types of Dental Crowns

Selecting the appropriate material for a dental crown is crucial for both functionality and aesthetics. The main types include:

Types of Dental Crowns

• Porcelain Crowns: Renowned for their natural appearance, porcelain crowns are ideal for front teeth due to their ability to mimic the translucency of natural enamel.
• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: Combining the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain, PFM crowns are versatile and suitable for both front and back teeth.
• Metal Crowns: Constructed from gold or other metal alloys, these crowns offer exceptional durability and are typically reserved for molars that endure significant chewing forces.
• Zirconia Crowns: Made from a robust ceramic material, zirconia crowns provide a balance between strength and aesthetics, suitable for any location in the mouth.

The Dental Crown Procedure

Receiving a dental crown generally involves two appointments to prepare the tooth and place a custom-made restoration.

First Visit: Tooth Preparation and Impressions

• Examination and Preparation: The dentist evaluates the tooth and removes any decayed or damaged portions. The tooth is then reshaped to accommodate the crown.
• Impressions: Detailed impressions of the prepared tooth and surrounding teeth are taken to ensure a precise fit for the custom crown.
• Temporary Crown Placement: A temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth while the permanent crown is being fabricated.

Second Visit: Permanent Crown Placement

• Temporary Crown Removal: The temporary crown is carefully taken off.
• Fitting the Permanent Crown: The new crown is checked for proper fit, color match, and bite alignment.
• Cementation: Once adjustments are complete, the crown is permanently cemented into place.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns offer numerous advantages for restoring and protecting damaged teeth:

Benefits of Dental Crowns

• Restoration of Function: Enabling normal chewing and speaking abilities.
• Protection: Shielding weakened teeth from further damage or decay.
• Durability: With proper care, crowns can last between 5 to 15 years, and sometimes longer.
• Aesthetic Improvement: Enhancing the appearance of teeth, contributing to a confident smile.

Caring for Your Dental Crown

Maintaining the longevity of a dental crown involves regular care and preventive measures.

Tips for Caring for Your Dental Crown

• Oral Hygiene: Brushing twice daily and flossing to prevent plaque buildup around the crown.
• Avoiding Hard Foods: Steering clear of hard or sticky foods that could damage the crown.
• Regular Dental Check-ups: Scheduling routine visits for professional cleanings and examinations.

Why Choose Desert Bloom Dentistry for Your Dental Crowns?

At Desert Bloom Dentistry, we combine quality patient care with up-to-date technology to provide comprehensive oral health solutions. Our team, led by Dr. Shawn Layton and Dr. Steven Cooper, is dedicated to personalized care, ensuring that each dental crown is crafted to meet the specific needs and preferences of our patients.

Conclusion

Dental crowns play a vital role in restoring the function and appearance of damaged teeth. By choosing the appropriate type of crown and adhering to proper dental care practices, patients can enjoy the benefits of a healthy, functional, and aesthetically pleasing smile. At Desert Bloom Dentistry, we are committed to helping you achieve optimal oral health through personalized and compassionate care.