A Guide to Dental Crowns

Dental crowns can help improve the function and appearance of a smile. Our Stamford dentist may recommend dental crowns to help address a variety of dental health issues. This treatment may be right for you if you suffer from extreme dental decay, weakened enamel, to prevent further damage to a tooth, to seal a tooth fracture, or to complete a dental implant. Keep reading to learn more about what dental crowns can do for your smile.

A dental crown is a false tooth that is inserted into the smile to act as a functional, realistic new tooth. This crown can be made out of different materials depending on the placement and function. The most common material used to create a dental crown is porcelain. This is because porcelain is stain-resistant and extremely durable. Porcelain crowns are best suited for any tooth located in the front of the mouth, where they would be most visible. Crowns could also be made out of metal if they will be performing the function of a molar. However, some patients may prefer porcelain instead because the metal crown may still be too visible, even if located in the back of the mouth. Ceramic resin crowns are also available, though they are not as durable as porcelain or metal and they would not be a permanent solution. Resin crowns are less expensive than porcelain, but they will need to be replaced after about five years.

Preparing a tooth for a crown may require some adjusting to the tooth’s enamel. Our Stamford dentist will likely need to shave off some of the tooth’s outer surface to create some space for the crown. This will also create a bit of friction, which will help in cementing the crown to the tooth. Before the tooth is prepared, our team will take some x-rays to make sure that your tooth is healthy enough for a crown. We will make sure that the structural foundation of your tooth root, as well as gum health, are all in perfect condition before getting the crown. If you suffer from gum disease or severe dental decay, we may need to treat your smile before placing the crown. Your teeth and gums should be healthy and strong before we place the dental crown.

To care for your crown, you’ll want to follow a proper dental hygiene routine just like you would for your natural teeth. Brush twice per day with fluoride toothpaste, and floss every night before bed. You should also rinse with antibacterial mouthwash to wash away any remaining bacteria or food debris. Dental crowns can’t experience decay like normal teeth, but the surrounding gums and other natural teeth can. That is why it is so important to take excellent care of your crowns, just as you would your own teeth. For more information about dental crowns, call our Stamford dentist. Our team can help you achieve a healthier, stronger smile! Call today to book your next consultation.