Dental Crowns and Oral Health

Dental crowns are versatile restorative dental devices that encapsulate and protect damaged or weakened teeth. They serve multiple purposes in dentistry, including restoring a tooth's strength, shape, and function compromised by decay, fractures, or extensive fillings. Crowns also play a crucial role in enhancing aesthetics by improving the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth, ensuring a natural-looking smile. Additionally, they can cover dental implants or anchor dental bridges, providing stability and support for these prosthetic replacements. Overall, dental crowns preserve and enhance both the health and appearance of teeth, promoting long-term oral health and restoring confidence in patients' smiles. 

The Dental Crown Procedure 

The dental crown procedure is a multi-step process designed to restore the function and appearance of a damaged or decayed tooth. It typically begins with an initial consultation where the dentist in Houston, TX, assesses the tooth's condition through a thorough examination and X-rays. This evaluation helps determine whether a dental crown is the appropriate treatment option. 

If a crown is recommended, the next step involves preparing the tooth. This preparation entails reshaping the tooth by removing a small amount of its outer layer, primarily the enamel, to create space for the crown. This step is crucial to ensure the crown fits securely and comfortably over the tooth. 

After the tooth is prepared, an impression (mold) of it and its surrounding teeth is taken. This impression is a blueprint for crafting a custom-made crown that perfectly fits the prepared tooth. The impression is sent to a dental laboratory where skilled technicians fabricate the crown using materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of these materials, depending on the patient's needs and preferences. 

While the permanent crown is made, typically taking a couple of weeks, a temporary crown is placed over the prepared tooth. This temporary crown protects the tooth and maintains its function and appearance until the final crown is ready for placement. 

Once the permanent crown is ready, the patient returns for the final appointment. The temporary crown is removed, and the dentist carefully checks the fit, color, and bite alignment of the permanent crown. Adjustments may be made to ensure the crown fits comfortably and functions correctly within the patient's bite. 

Finally, once the patient and dentist are satisfied with the fit and appearance of the crown, it is cemented or bonded into place. The dentist provides instructions on caring for the new crown, including proper oral hygiene practices and any dietary restrictions. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor the crown's stability and the patient's overall oral health. 

Overall, the dental crown procedure aims to restore a compromised tooth's strength, function, and aesthetics, providing a durable and natural-looking solution for patients seeking to improve their oral health and smile. 

How do Dental Crowns Contribute to Overall Oral Health? 

Restoration of Tooth Structure 

Crowns in Houston, TX, are used to restore teeth that are heavily decayed, cracked, or damaged. By covering the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gumline, crowns provide structural support and prevent further deterioration of the tooth structure. This restoration helps maintain the tooth's functionality for chewing and speaking. 

Protection from Further Damage 

Crowns act as a protective barrier around weakened teeth, shielding them from additional wear and damage. This protection is essential for teeth undergoing extensive restorative treatments such as root canals or large fillings, which can weaken the tooth structure over time. Contact us today to learn more.

Prevention of Tooth Fractures 

Teeth significantly weakened or have large fillings are more prone to fractures. Crownscover and encase these vulnerable teeth, reducing the risk of fractures that could lead to more extensive dental procedures or tooth loss. 

Longevity and Durability 

Crowns are durable and designed to withstand the forces of chewing and biting. They provide long-term stability to compromised teeth, reducing the likelihood of needing further dental interventions in the future. 

Support for Dental Implants and Bridges 

Crowns are used to cap dental implants or anchor dental bridges. By securely attaching these prosthetic devices to adjacent teeth or implants, crowns contribute to the stability and functionality of the entire dental restoration. 

Improvement of Bite Alignment 

Misshapen or severely worn teeth can affect bite alignment and lead to jaw pain or discomfort. Crowns restore teeth' natural shape and size, thereby improving bite alignment and reducing strain on the jaw muscles. 

Enhancement of Aesthetic Appearance 

In addition to their functional benefits, crowns improve teeth's aesthetic appearance. They can cover stains, discolorations, or irregularities in tooth shape, restoring a natural and attractive smile. 

Caring for Your Dental Crowns 

• Brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily, paying extra attention to the gum line around the crown. 

• This helps prevent crown and surrounding teeth damage while effectively cleaning plaque and food particles. 

• Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or using your teeth to open packages. Also, avoid sticky foods that can pull on the crown. 

• Schedule dental visits every six months for professional cleanings to check the condition of your crowns and assess your oral health. 

• If you grind your teeth at night (bruxism), wearing a night guard can protect your natural teeth and dental crowns from excessive wear. 

• Smoking and chewing tobacco can stain your crowns and increase the risk of gum disease and other oral health problems. 

Dental crowns offer comprehensive benefits that go beyond cosmetic improvements. They support the health and appearance of your teeth for enhanced dental function and overall quality of life. Visit Enviable Smiles at 9451 Cullen Blvd Suite D, Houston, TX 77051, or call (281) 972-4747 to discover how crowns can enhance the appearance and health of your teeth.