A dental crown is a porcelain cap that your dentist places on your tooth. It is a versatile dental appliance that your dentist can use for cosmetic or restorative purposes. If your dentist recommends a dental crown, it can be for one of many reasons.
Cover Dental Appliances
A common use for dental crowns is to stabilize dental appliances. When you get a dental implant, your dentist will use a dental crown to top the appliance. They will attach the dental crown to the post, which is connected to the abutment.
Once you go through the surgical process, you must wait for your gums and jaw to heal after each step. This means that you will go through two phases before you get a crown. After your jaw heals, your dentist will install a dental crown. This is the final step that will complete the restoration process.
Another tooth replacement option is a dental bridge. Dental bridges fill the gap of one or more missing teeth. To secure the bridge in place, your dentist will utilize a dental crown on either side of the appliance. This will ensure that your dental bridge doesn’t budge while you eat or speak.
Large Filling or Root Canal
If you have tooth decay or a severe infection, your dentist may need to perform a procedure to save your tooth. A cavity is a form of tooth decay that can damage your enamel and the structure of your tooth. Without proper treatment, a cavity will continue to burrow into your tooth.
Typically, a dental filling can stop the decay. However, significant damage may require a root canal. During either procedure, your dentist will remove the decay or damaged pulp to stop the deterioration of your tooth.
After your dentist removes the decay, your tooth will require structural repair. If they have to remove a significant portion of your tooth, you will need a large filling to support your tooth. This means that you will likely need a dental crown to restore the look and function of your tooth.
After filling your tooth, your dentist will take impressions of your tooth to create your permanent crown. Once your dentist or a lab finishes the crown, you will come to the office for the final installation.
Worn Teeth
Having worn teeth can make it difficult to chew your food properly. Over time, this can cause malnutrition or vitamin deficiencies. There are several reasons why your teeth may lose their shape. First, it is natural for your teeth to wear over time due to normal wear and tear. This means that age is a factor for worn teeth.
Additionally, conditions like bruxism can speed up the erosion process. Bruxism occurs when someone grinds their teeth or clenches their jaw. Behaviors like this increase the pressure on your teeth, which can prematurely alter their shape and structure.
When you have significant wear on your teeth, your dentist can use a dental crown to restore the structure.