If you are dealing with a damaged tooth, dental crowns may be a viable solution. These tooth coverings help restore a damaged tooth for a functional and healthy smile. While a crown is one of the most common types of dental work, it still may not be for everyone. It can only be used to treat specific issues in patients who are good candidates for the treatment.
Many dental issues can be effectively repaired with a crown. These can include:
In these situations, the dentist will treat any decay or infection and then prepare the tooth by grinding it down to a smaller size. Impressions or digital images will be taken and a crown will be milled, usually from porcelain or ceramic, although metal may be used as a reinforcement material. The crown is then cemented in place and creates a natural-looking finished product that can last up to 15 years with good oral hygiene and care.
In general, dental crowns are a practical choice for most patients. However, some situations may require a different approach. You will likely need to meet these requirements in order to get a dental crown.
Patients who need dental crowns should have a mouth that is healthy enough to support this type of dental work. If several adjacent teeth are also severely damaged by significant decay or gum disease, crowns may not be the ideal treatment choice, especially if further damage is expected. Chronic dental disease can also prompt a dentist to recommend other alternatives instead.
Dental crowns are caps that are placed on an existing natural tooth. A healthy root is required to support the covering. Therefore, they cannot be used to replace a knocked-out tooth. If the decay or damage is so severe that the root is no longer healthy, a dental crown will likely be out of the question, especially if an extraction is needed.
In general, crowns are only used on teeth towards the back of the mouth. They are most commonly used to repair and restore molars. Teeth towards the front of the mouth will require an alternative type of treatment.
Patients who wish to get a dental crown should have all other potential dental work completed first. This includes the treatment of cavities, infections, or gum disease. Also, patients who habitually clench and grind their teeth are more likely to damage dental crowns. A dentist may need to begin treatment for these issues first to ensure the crown lasts longer.
There are many ways to repair a damaged tooth, but dental crowns are one of the most commonly used options. However, this type of treatment only applies to certain situations. If you are dealing with a damaged tooth, a dentist can help you make the right treatment plan to restore your smile.
Request an appointment here: https://www.sunsetdentalnm.com or call Sunset Dental at (505) 295-4050 for an appointment in our Albuquerque office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Crowns in Albuquerque, NM.
Usually, patients can expect a dental crown to last around five to 15 years. But the life of a dental crown might depend on how much wear and tear the restoration undergoes. Plus, avoiding habits like clenching the teeth or chewing hard objects is advisable. That can extend the life span of the crown. Keep…
A dental bridge is an option for those who have lost teeth and need to fill in that space to complete their smile or bite. The procedure involves crowns being placed on supporting teeth (known as abutment teeth) that are fused with your missing tooth or teeth by what's called an implant post. The tooth-replacement…
Gum disease is a common oral health issue that dentists treat. You may focus more on cavity prevention, but gum issues can be just as critical to your wellness. Putting off treatment can cause more serious issues. You should first recognize the signs and symptoms of this condition and then seek your dentist’s help right…
Are you interested in learning more about Invisalign® clear aligners to determine if it is an effective treatment option for you? Many people who want straighter teeth do not think about the daily routine necessary to take care of braces or clear aligners. Considering how convenient your teeth straightening option will be is important, as…