Everything You Need to Know About Dental Crowns: The Royal Treatment for Your Teeth

When it comes to dental care, sometimes your teeth need a little extra support to stay strong and healthy. That's where dental crowns come into play. If you’ve ever been told you need a crown, you might have questions about what that means and how it can benefit you. Don’t worry—we’re here to break it all down for you in a way that’s easy to understand.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is like a snug-fitting cap placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Think of it as a little helmet for your tooth that protects it from further damage. Whether your tooth has been cracked, chipped, or weakened by decay, a crown can save the day by providing the necessary reinforcement.

Crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of materials. The choice of material depends on where the crown will be placed in your mouth and your personal preference. For example, porcelain crowns are popular for front teeth because they closely resemble the natural color of your teeth, while metal crowns are often used for molars due to their durability.

When Do You Need a Dental Crown?

You might be wondering, "Do I really need a crown?" That’s a great question! Dental crowns are typically recommended by a dentist in St. Louis, MO, for several reasons:

1. To Protect a Weak Tooth: If a tooth has been weakened by decay or a large filling, a crown can help hold it together and prevent it from breaking.

2. To Restore a Broken or Worn-Down Tooth: Teeth that have been chipped, cracked, or worn down from grinding can be restored to their full function with a crown.

3. After a Root Canal: Following a root canal, a tooth becomes more fragile, and a crown is often needed to protect it.

4. To Support a Dental Bridge: Crowns are used to anchor a dental bridge in place, filling the gap left by a missing tooth.

5. For Cosmetic Reasons: Crowns can improve the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth, giving you a more confident smile.

The Dental Crown Procedure: What to Expect

The process of getting a dental crown typically involves two visits to your dentist in St. Louis, MO. Here’s what you can expect:

1. First Visit: Exam and Preparation

   • Examination: Your dentist will start by examining the tooth that needs a crown, often taking X-rays to check the roots and surrounding bone.
   • Tooth Shaping: The tooth receiving the crown will be filed down along the top and sides to make room for the crown. If a large portion of the tooth is missing due to damage or decay, your dentist may use a filling material to build up enough structure to support the crown.
   • Impressions: After shaping the tooth, your dentist will take an impression of it, as well as the surrounding teeth. This impression is sent to a dental lab where your crown will be custom-made. In the meantime, you’ll receive a temporary crown to protect the prepared tooth.

2. Second Visit: Crown Placement

   • Fitting: Once your permanent crown is ready, you’ll return to your dentist’s office. The temporary crown is removed, and the new crown is checked for fit and color.
   • Cementing: If everything looks good, your dentist will numb the area and permanently cement the crown in place. Afterward, they’ll make any necessary adjustments to ensure your bite feels comfortable.

Caring for Your Dental Crown

Taking care of your dental crown is essential for ensuring it lasts as long as possible. Here are some tips for maintaining your crown:

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth regularly to keep the crowned tooth and surrounding area clean. Although a crown itself cannot decay, the tooth underneath it still can.

• Avoid Chewing Hard Objects: Crowns are durable, but they’re not invincible. Avoid chewing on ice, hard candies, or other hard objects that could damage your crown.

• Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular check-ups with your dentist in St. Louis, MO, will help catch any potential issues with your crown early on. Your dentist can also professionally clean around your crown to keep it in top shape.

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

With proper care, dental crowns can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, or even longer in some cases. The lifespan of your crown depends on factors like the material used, your oral hygiene habits, and the amount of wear and tear the crown is subjected to over time.

Why Choose Karen Harris DMD for Your Dental Crown?

When it comes to something as important as your smile, you want to trust your care to a dentist who prioritizes quality and patient satisfaction. At Karen Harris DMD, we are committed to providing top-notch dental care, including the expert placement of dental crowns in St. Louis, MO.

Our practice uses the latest technology and materials to ensure that your crown looks natural and feels comfortable. We understand that dental procedures can be daunting, so we make it our mission to create a welcoming and stress-free environment for our patients.

Whether you need a crown to protect a damaged tooth or to enhance the appearance of your smile, we’re here to help. Schedule a consultation with us today to find out if a dental crown is the right solution for you.

Conclusion

Dental crowns are a versatile and effective solution for a variety of dental issues, from protecting a weakened tooth to enhancing your smile. If you think you might need a crown, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted dentist in St. Louis, MO, like Karen Harris DMD. With the right care, your crown can last for many years, helping you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.