Why Dental Crowns are Often the Best Option for Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is a common problem that affects people of all ages, causing discomfort, pain, and potentially leading to tooth loss if not addressed. Fortunately, there are many ways to treat tooth decay, and dental crowns are among the most effective.

Dental crowns are custom-made caps that fit over a damaged or decayed tooth to fortify and protect it. These caps can be crafted from various materials, such as porcelain, metal, or ceramic, and provide a natural appearance and feel, which makes them an appealing choice for those seeking to restore their smile and oral health.

This blog post will delve into the advantages of dental crowns and why they are frequently the preferred option for tooth decay. We’ll also discuss the dental crown process, how to maintain them, and compare them to other dental treatments. Whether you’re experiencing tooth decay or want to know more about dental crowns, continue reading to discover why they may be the best solution for you.

Do I Really Need A Crown?

Yes, if you have a significantly damaged or decayed tooth, a dental crown is often necessary to protect it from further damage and restore its function.

When a tooth has undergone significant damage or decay, a filling may not suffice to repair it. In such cases, a dental crown is often the best course of action. They provide a protective shield over the damaged tooth, preventing any further harm and restoring the tooth’s strength and functionality.

Additionally, if your tooth has undergone a root canal, a dental crown is often required to prevent any future fractures or damage. Dental crowns also provide an aesthetic solution for a tooth that has undergone significant discoloration, ensuring that it blends seamlessly with the rest of your teeth.

Moreover, they are durable, with an average lifespan of 10-15 years. By following proper dental hygiene and routine check-ups, your dental crown can last even longer.

What Happens When You Get A Dental Crown?

Getting a dental crown involves a straightforward and painless procedure that usually involves two visits to the dentist.

During the first visit, the dentist will examine your tooth to determine if a crown is necessary. If it is, the dentist will numb the area surrounding the tooth and prepare it for the crown by reshaping it to accommodate the crown’s size.

The dentist will then take an impression of the tooth to create a mold for the crown. The mold will be sent to a dental laboratory, where the crown will be custom-made to fit your tooth precisely.

Before you leave the first appointment, the dentist will place a temporary crown over the prepared tooth to protect it while the permanent crown is being made.

Once the permanent crown is ready, you will return for the second visit. During this appointment, the temporary crown will be removed, and the permanent crown will be cemented into place.

The dentist will ensure that the crown fits snugly and feels comfortable, making any necessary adjustments before it’s permanently attached.

Overall, getting a dental crown is a simple and straightforward process. With proper care and maintenance, your dental crown can provide you with long-lasting protection and functionality, restoring your smile and improving your overall dental health.

How Do You Maintain Your Dental Crown?

Maintaining your dental crown is easy and straightforward with proper dental hygiene, regular check-ups, and avoiding hard or sticky foods.

Once you have a dental crown, it’s important to take care of it just like you would your natural teeth. Proper dental hygiene is essential, which includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash. Regular check-ups with your dentist are also necessary to ensure that your crown is still in good condition and functioning correctly.

To maintain its longevity, it’s also important to avoid hard or sticky foods that can cause damage to your crown or even dislodge it. Chewing on ice or using your teeth to open packaging should be avoided as they can cause fractures in your crown.

Additionally, if you are a teeth grinder or jaw clencher, you should talk to your dentist about wearing a nightguard. Grinding or clenching can cause damage to your dental crown and lead to other dental problems.

Lastly, if you notice any changes in your dental crown, such as looseness, cracks, or sensitivity, you should contact your dentist immediately. Prompt attention can prevent any further damage and ensure that your crown continues to provide you with long-lasting protection and functionality.

Should I Get a Crown or an Extraction?

In most cases, a dental crown is a better option than extraction as it preserves your natural tooth and prevents the need for more extensive dental procedures in the future.

If you have a damaged or decayed tooth, it can be tempting to think that extraction is the easiest solution. However, extracting a tooth should be the last resort, as it can cause several problems, including bone loss, gum recession, and even affect the surrounding teeth.

In contrast, a dental crown offers an effective and long-lasting solution. Crowns can restore damaged or decayed teeth, preventing any further harm and improving their appearance and function. Furthermore, crowns can also prevent future dental problems, such as tooth sensitivity or further decay.

Another advantage of dental crowns is that they are custom-made to fit your tooth precisely, ensuring that they are comfortable and blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. With proper care and maintenance, a dental crown can last for many years, providing you with long-lasting protection and functionality.

In summary, while extraction may seem like a quick fix for a damaged or decayed tooth, a dental crown is often the better choice. It preserves your natural tooth, prevents the need for more extensive dental procedures in the future, and provides a long-lasting solution for your dental needs.

Restore Your Tooth With a Dental Crown

Dental crowns are an effective and long-lasting solution for damaged or decayed teeth. They protect and strengthen your natural tooth, restore its function and appearance, and prevent future dental problems. By following proper dental hygiene, regular check-ups, and avoiding hard or sticky foods, you can maintain your dental crown and ensure its longevity.

At Signature Smiles, we offer customized dental crown solutions to meet your dental needs. Our experienced team of dental professionals will work with you to create a treatment plan that suits your unique situation and provides you with the best possible outcome.

If you have any questions about dental crowns or would like to schedule a consultation, please contact us today. We are committed to helping you achieve optimal oral health and a beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime.