When it comes to preserving your smile and ensuring your oral health, dental crowns play a crucial role. But what exactly is a dental crown and when might you need one? This blog post will answer these questions and more, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of dental crowns.

Understanding Dental Crowns

A dental crown, also known as a cap, is a type of dental restoration that completely covers a tooth or dental implant. Crowns are often needed when a large cavity threatens the ongoing health of a tooth. They are typically bonded to the tooth using a dental cement.

Dental crowns can be made from many materials and are usually fabricated in a dedicated dental lab. The crowns are made to mimic the shape, size, and color of the tooth to ensure a natural appearance. Materials can include porcelain, ceramics, gold, metal alloys, or composite resin.

When Do You Need a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of situations. You might need a dental crown if you have a weak tooth that needs to be held together or a tooth that is extremely worn down. Crowns are also used to cover and support a tooth with a large filling, especially when there isn't a lot of tooth left.

Additionally, dental crowns are used to hold dental bridges in place and cover discolored or poorly shaped teeth. If you've had a root canal treatment, your dentist will often recommend a crown to protect the restored tooth.

The Dental Crown Procedure

Getting a dental crown typically requires two visits to the dentist. The first step involves examining and preparing the tooth, while the second visit involves placement of the permanent crown. On the first visit, your dentist may take a few x-rays to check the roots of the tooth and surrounding bone.

If the tooth has extensive decay or there is a risk of infection, a root canal treatment may be performed first. During the visit, the dentist will numb your tooth and gum tissue and shape the tooth to make room for the crown. The dentist will then take an impression of your tooth and send it off to a dental lab, where your crown will be custom made.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns offer many benefits. They protect weak teeth from breaking, hold together parts of cracked teeth, and restore already broken teeth. Crowns are also used to hold dental bridges in place and cover dental implants. Moreover, they offer a great aesthetic solution as they cover discolored or misshapen teeth.

With proper care, a good quality crown could last up to 15 years or more. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene and have regular dental check-ups to ensure the longevity of your dental crown.

Choosing Breathe Deep Dental in Bend, OR

At Breathe Deep Dental, Dr. Sophie Diepenheim and her team are dedicated to providing high-quality dental care in a comfortable, patient-focused environment. If you think you may need a dental crown, or simply want to learn more about this treatment, don't hesitate to reach out to us at (541) 419-7920. We're here to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.