The Unsung “Workhorse” of Dental Restorations

Your teeth play a role in speaking, chewing, and maintaining proper bite alignment. When one or more of your teeth is severely damaged, decayed, or missing, you should seek an appointment, even if there is no pain. Neglecting issues can lead to more serious oral health concerns. There is one restoration that has become a go-to solution for more serious problems.

Simply put, a dental crown is a cap that covers a tooth. It is cemented in place to replace the entire external portion and enhance the tooth’s appearance or function. When teeth are missing, crowns can be placed on the adjoining teeth to hold a bridge in place.

There are different materials that can be used in making a crown, but the porcelain, or ceramic, crown is one of the most popular because it can be colored and shaped to most closely resemble your natural teeth. A porcelain crown will not stain or change color, either.

Dental crowns restore functionality to your teeth. Because the remaining tooth structure is weak, replacing very large fillings with a crown protects your tooth from cracking and requiring further restorative procedures. A crown may be able to redistribute the pressure from chewing and prevent further damage to the tooth. When a tooth has had a root canal, a crown is often done to protect the tooth from possible fracture. Covering broken or worn cusps on your teeth with a crown also may prevent further fracturing.

Porcelain dental crowns also provide aesthetic advantages. Dental crowns can provide a more pleasing shape and color to your teeth and can repair damage caused by decay or trauma, improving your smile. Teeth worn by bruxism can be restored to a natural, more aesthetically pleasing appearance. Spaces and gaps between your teeth can be closed with skillfully designed crowns, which improves both function and appearance.

To keep porcelain crowns looking good and staying strong for a very long time, just follow the good oral hygiene practices you should be following for your natural teeth — brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily, and getting regular check-ups and cleanings.

In addition to affecting the appearance of your smile, decaying or damaged teeth can lead to issues that may require a root canal or tooth removal. Done properly, crowns can stop further damage or decay for 10 to 20 years.

If you would like more information about porcelain dental crowns or would like an appointment to repair your teeth with a crown, we encourage you to call now. We serve patients in Rossville, California, and the surrounding areas, so contact our office today. Together we will work to keep your smile bright and healthy!