Dental crowns are one of the most versatile tools a dentist has. They’re ideal for multiple cosmetic and restorative treatments. So, what all can dental crowns do for you? Dr. Angie Gribble Hedlund of Esthetic Dental Solutions explains how she uses dental crowns in Alpharetta, GA.
What are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are a commonly used solution for both restorative and cosmetic procedures. They’re made of durable dental ceramic and are designed to fit over an entire prepared tooth. Preparing the tooth takes it down to the foundational structure, while the dental crown is the new cap that’s color-matched to the rest of your smile and acts as the main tooth.
Stabilizing Your Tooth
One of the most common uses of dental crowns is to stabilize your tooth after a root canal is done. During a root canal, infected material is removed from inside your tooth, leaving a hollow cavity. Though that cavity is filled in, a dental crown ensures that you’ll get back the full functionality of your tooth. It provides the added benefit of sealing off the tooth from any further infection as well.
Covering Misshapen or Discolored Teeth
A misshapen tooth can make you feel insecure about your smile. Depending on the defect and where it’s located in your mouth, it can also make things like speaking and chewing difficult. Since a dental crown goes over your entire tooth, it can completely cover the misshapen one. It’s designed to blend in with the rest of your smile, so people won’t notice a thing!
Discolored teeth can make you want to hide your smile, too. And traditional teeth whitening isn’t always able to get rid of stains that are caused by things like genetics or medication. A dental crown can be matched to the rest of your teeth or to whatever shade of white you specify.
Treating Broken, Cracked, or Chipped Teeth
Dental crowns can help both cosmetic breaks and those that are more of a dental emergency. If the tooth is chipped or broken, a dental crown helps to replace the part of the tooth that’s broken off. This helps with functionality as well as looks in your smile. It also protects the nerves and dental pulp from being exposed, causing pain and sensitivity.
If the tooth is severely cracked, crowns can help this as well. A crown can hold the pieces of a tooth together so you don’t have to deal with the consequences that come with tooth loss. When a tooth is cracked, the dental pulp is also vulnerable to bacteria and infection. A dental crown helps to seal the tooth from infection as well.
The Final Restoration for Dental Implants
Dental implants are the gold standard of tooth replacement. They can support dental crowns, bridges, or dentures. However, the dental crown is usually the most commonly used. Crowns are able to make the restoration both look and feel the most natural.
Getting Dental Crowns in Alpharetta, Georgia
Do you think a dental crown could be the solution to your dental problem? Call us or schedule an appointment online.