A Fully Restored and Aesthetically-Pleasing Smile with Dental Crowns

The crown of your tooth is the portion that is visible above the gumline. Covered by a hard, protective surface called the enamel, it has the awesome task of protecting the inner area of the tooth from the harsh environment in the mouth. What can be done when dental crowns are damaged or lost, then? Read on to learn about the remedy!

What Can a Dental Crown Fix?

A dental crown is a tooth-colored restoration that fits directly over a badly damaged tooth, or it can serve as a replacement. Here are some scenarios where a crown can be of service:

• Restoring a misshapen, cracked or chipped tooth
• Fitting over an existing tooth that has become weak
• Restoring a tooth after a root canal procedure has been performed
• Replacing a single missing tooth or several as part of a bridge

The process of having a dental crown placed usually takes two-to-three visits to complete.

Visit #1 – Temporary Crown Placement

At your initial visit, your dentist will capture bite impressions so your crown can be fabricated by an in-network lab. In the interim, you’ll be fitted with a temporary crown for protection.

There are some guidelines that will need to be followed, though, to make sure the fixture remains in place and functional:

• Avoid sticky items like caramel or chewing gums.
• Limit your chewing in the area where the temporary crown is placed.
• Avoid eating hard foods that could possibly break or dislodge the crown.
• Be sure to keep your gums clean to prevent soreness and the possibility of any infection.

Visit #2 – The Placement of the Permanent Crown

In usually two-to-three weeks, your permanent crown will be ready. You’ll be invited back to your dentist to have it bonded and your smile fully restored.

During the first week after the fixture is placed, you’ll need to follow the same guidelines required for the temporary crown. Then, to ensure your crown’s longevity, make it a habit to brush and floss your teeth at least two times a day.

Additionally, you should seek treatment from your dentist, immediately, if you suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding). That’s because the uneven force placed on the prosthetic could cause it to break or loosen.

Taking a Proactive Approach

To learn more about the dental crown process and have your damaged or lost tooth restored, simply reach out to your local dentist to schedule a consultation. With the expert care you’ll receive, you’ll have a fully-functional and beautiful restoration just in time for the fall festivities!

About the Author

Dr. Gabriel Ruiz is a graduate of Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine. Throughout his career, he has maintained a focus on meeting the needs of his patients first, which is why he thoroughly explains treatment processes as well as educates his patients on ways to improve their oral health. Dr. Ruiz restores smiles and functionality with dental crowns at Drum Point Family and Implant Dentistry, and he can be reached for more information through his website.