If there is one basic dental restoration that serves many purposes, it is a dental crown. And with improvements made in recent years in materials, functionality, and aesthetics, crowns have become a very important tool in many aspects of dental care.
The Many Facets of a Dental Crown
Save a fractured or broken tooth: While a large portion of a broken tooth is removed to place a crown, saving the balance of the tooth is important. When the base of the tooth remains, there is no disruption to surrounding teeth.
Prevent further harm due to deep decay: A cavity might continue to ravage a tooth previously treated for decay. Very often, partial crowns (known as onlays and/or inlays) can be used in this instance.
Seal a tooth following endodontic care: No one relishes the idea of having a root canal. But when the diagnosis requires one to save a tooth, your dentist will most always recommend endodontic care over tooth extraction. Treatment requires an access point be made to remove the contents of the root canals of the tooth. This access point must eventually be sealed, and very often a dental crown is used for this purpose.
Allow a dental prosthesis to be fixed: Patients are able to select having their “tooth replacements” attached to healthy abutment teeth making their partial or bridge a permanent fixture.
Cover a dental implant: If tooth loss occurs or extraction becomes necessary, a dental implant can be placed. The implant itself is a small titanium post; when embedded in gum tissue it becomes the support mechanism for the cosmetic restoration (crown) that will eventually cover it.
Caring For A Dental Crown
Once your crown is ready to be placed, your dentist will try it in. Small adjustments can be made at this time. When ready, your crown is cemented in place and treatment is completed. It is wise to avoid sticky foods for a few days to prevent dislodging a recently cured crown.
Brush and floss daily. Finally, visit our team at Hulen Crossing Family Dental regularly, and your dental crown should serve you well for many years.
