Posted by Dr. Robert S. Krueger Jun 14, 2024
Dental crowns significantly enhance overall dental health by providing comprehensive protection and restoration for damaged teeth. They encase weakened teeth, preventing further decay or fractures, and restore complete chewing and biting functionality, enabling a balanced diet and proper nutrition. Crowns also improve the aesthetic appearance of teeth, addressing issues like discoloration and misshapenness, which boosts confidence and encourages better oral hygiene. Additionally, crowns support adjacent teeth, preventing shifting and maintaining bite alignment, and they reinforce teeth that have undergone root canal treatment, ensuring their longevity and functionality. By reducing tooth sensitivity and eliminating areas where food particles and bacteria can accumulate, dental crowns contribute to better oral hygiene and overall dental wellness, offering a durable, long-lasting solution to various dental issues.
A dental crown can provide the necessary protection and strength if a tooth is significantly damaged due to decay, trauma, or wear. Crowns are ideal for teeth too compromised to be repaired with a filling or other less extensive dental treatments.
Dental crowns restore the functionality of teeth that have been impaired. They are particularly beneficial for back teeth that endure heavy chewing pressure. If you have difficulty chewing or biting because of a damaged tooth, a crown can help restore normal function.
Crowns are also used to enhance the appearance of teeth that are discolored, misshapen, or otherwise cosmetically unpleasing. If you want to improve your smile, crowns made from porcelain or zirconia can provide a natural and aesthetically pleasing result.
Crowns are often used in conjunction with other dental procedures. They can secure a dental bridge or cover a dental implant, providing a stable and functional restoration. If you undergo extensive dental work, crowns may be integral to your treatment plan.
If you have significant dental wear due to grinding (bruxism) or acid erosion, crowns can help protect your teeth from further damage. They provide a durable surface that can withstand the forces of grinding and the effects of acid.
After a root canal treatment, teeth are often left weakened and susceptible to fractures. Placing a crown over a root canal-treated tooth can provide the necessary strength and protection, ensuring the tooth's longevity.
The dental crown procedure begins with an initial consultation, during which our dentist in Skokie, IL, will examine your teeth and determine if a crown is the best solution for your dental issue. X-rays may be taken to assess the tooth's and surrounding bone's health. Once it's decided that a crown is necessary, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping it to fit the crown. This process involves numbing the tooth and surrounding area to ensure comfort. After shaping the tooth, an impression is taken to create a model for the custom crown. A temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth while the permanent crown is being made.
The impressions taken during the initial appointment are sent to a dental laboratory, where skilled technicians fabricate the crown. This process can take one to two weeks, depending on the material and complexity of the crown. The crown is designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless fit and natural appearance. During this time, you'll need to take care of your temporary crown by avoiding sticky or hard foods and practicing good oral hygiene.
Once the permanent crown is ready, you will return to the dentist for the fitting and final placement. Our dentist will remove the temporary crown and clean the tooth thoroughly. The permanent crown is placed over the prepared tooth to check for proper fit, alignment, and bite. Any necessary adjustments are made to ensure comfort and functionality. The crown is permanently cemented once you and the dentist are satisfied with the fit. This final step restores the tooth's strength, appearance, and function, completing the dental crown procedure. Regular dental check-ups and proper oral care will help maintain the longevity and health of the crown. Contact us today to learn more.
Dental crowns are a reliable and versatile solution for various dental problems. Visit Krueger Dental Associates at 9631 Gross Point Rd Suite 104, Skokie, IL 60076, or call (847) 328-1180 to explore how dental crowns can enhance oral health and boost confidence.