Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps made of durable materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or metal alloys placed over damaged or weakened teeth to restore their strength, function, and appearance. These custom-fitted crowns encase the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line, protecting against further decay, fractures, or other forms of damage. Beyond structural reinforcement, dental crowns can enhance the aesthetics of a smile by improving the shape, size, color, and alignment of teeth. By preserving the natural tooth structure and preventing further deterioration, crowns contribute to the overall health and longevity of the tooth, ultimately promoting oral health and restoring confidence in one's smile.
The process typically begins with the dentist in St. Louis, MO, numbing the area around the tooth that will receive the crown using a local anesthetic. Once numb, the tooth is carefully shaped and reduced to create space for the crown. This step ensures the crown fits appropriately over the tooth and aligns with neighboring teeth. In some cases, if the tooth is severely damaged or decayed, additional buildup material may be used to create a stable foundation for the crown.
After the tooth has been prepared, impressions or digital scans of the tooth and surrounding teeth are taken. These impressions create a custom crown matching the natural teeth' size, shape, and color. Temporary crowns may be placed to protect the prepared tooth while the permanent crown is fabricated in a dental laboratory.
Once the permanent crown is ready, usually within a couple of weeks, the patient returns to the dental office for the final placement. The temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is checked for fit and color. If everything looks satisfactory, the crown is bonded into place using dental cement. The dentist at Karen J Harris & Associates, ensures that the crown is correctly aligned with the adjacent teeth and that the bite is comfortable and functional.
After placing the crown, patients are advised to follow proper oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits. It's essential to avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods immediately after crown placement to prevent dislodging or damaging the crown. With proper care and maintenance, dental crowns can last for many years, providing long-term protection and restoration for the tooth.
When a tooth has extensive decay that cannot be effectively treated with a filling, a dental crown may be necessary to restore its structure and function. Crowns cover the entire visible portion of the tooth, protecting against further decay and strengthening the tooth. Contact us today!
Teeth that are fractured, broken, or weakened due to trauma, injury, or large fillings may require crowns to provide support and reinforcement. Crowns help to hold the tooth together, preventing further damage and restoring its strength and integrity.
Teeth undergoing root canal therapy are often weakened and more susceptible to fracture. A dental crown is typically placed over the treated tooth to protect it from damage and restore its function. Crowns also seal the tooth, preventing recontamination of the root canal system and reducing the risk of reinfection.
Dental crowns in St. Louis, MO, can be used for cosmeticpurposes to improve the appearance of teeth that are discolored, misshapen, or poorly aligned. Crowns can be customized to match adjacent teeth' shape, size, and color, creating a natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing smile.
Teeth weakened by age, genetics, or other factors may benefit from crowns to strengthen and reinforce their structure and prevent further damage.
Teeth that have been severely worn down due to bruxism (teeth grinding), acid erosion, or other factors may benefit from crowns to restore height, function, and appearance. Crowns provide coverage and protection to the worn-down tooth structure, preventing further wear and maintaining proper bite alignment.
Large fillings that have failed or become dislodged may compromise the tooth's structural integrity. In such cases, a dental crown may be recommended to replace the filling and restore the tooth's strength and durability.
Teeth with cracks or fractures that do not extend into the root may be protected and strengthened with crowns to prevent further damage.
Dental crowns are commonly used to restore missing teeth with dental implants. After the implant fixture has been placed and integrated into the jawbone, a custom-made crown is attached to the implant abutment, completing the restoration and providing a functional and natural-looking replacement tooth.
Dental crowns offer many benefits beyond mere restoration, encompassing protection, functionality, aesthetics, longevity, and oral health preservation. Visit Karen J Harris & Associates at 2000 Locust, St. Louis, MO 63103, or call (314) 231-4893 to determine if a dental crown is the right treatment option for you.
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2000 Locust, St. Louis, MO 63103
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