Dental CrownA crown is a custom created restoration that is made to cover the entire surface of a tooth affected by damage or decay or a tooth that is otherwise compromised. The goal of the crown is to protect the tooth and preserve it right where it is. If you need a dental crown, Tim Perry, DDS can help. Preserving the Integrity of a Compromised ToothWhen a tooth is damaged or decayed, or if you have a large filling currently inside of the tooth, the strength or for your tooth is in jeopardy. The tooth could chip or crack more. Bacteria could get into the tooth. Infections can develop when bacteria get into the tooth, which could put your overall health at risk. In some cases, the tooth could even split in half. In cases of infection or splitting, more invasive treatments such as a root canal or even tooth extraction may become necessary. The job of the crown is to preserve your compromised tooth. It seals the tooth in a protective cap, giving it back its strength while also keeping bacteria out. The top of the crown functions just like the top of your natural tooth, allowing you to bite or chew normally without fear of damaging the tooth more. The Procedure is Fairly SimpleGetting a crown is a fairly simple procedure. In many cases, you will need to have two appointments. In some cases, though, you can have your crown placed in just one. We perform the procedure under a local anesthetic, which ensures your comfort. You should not feel any pain as we remove the necessary enamel from the damaged tooth. The next step is taking impressions. These are used to make your custom crown. When it is finished, its fit is checked. If your crown were created in an off-site lab, any adjustments would require us to send the crown back and schedule you for an extra appointment. For crowns created on-site, adjustments can be made right in the office. When the crown fits perfectly, it is cemented into place. Certain Crowns Can Improve the Appearance of Your SmileCrowns can be made from many materials. These materials include metal, porcelain fused to metal, resin, and ceramic. Ceramic crowns are considered to be one of the most popular choices. This is because the material allows us to create crowns that look exactly like your real teeth. For this reason, they are perfect for treating front teeth, giving you back your beautiful smile. Crowns Can Last for Several YearsCrowns that are well cared for can last for several years. Ceramic crowns can last upwards of 20 years or more. Metal crowns, which are stronger, can last upwards of 50 years or more. Taking good care of your oral health, including your crowns, is essential for making sure that they last as long as possible. Are There Any Drawbacks to a Crown?While there are many advantages to a dental crown, there are a few drawbacks. Certain materials, like ceramic, can chip under too much pressure. Sometimes, the cement holding the crown on the tooth can come loose, leaving the tooth at risk. If you notice anything wrong with your crown, it is important to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. A crown can be an effective solution for treating a compromised tooth. To find out if one is right for you, call Tim Perry, DDS at (318) 322-0576 today. |
Tim Perry DDS |