The wonders of modern dentistry have allowed people to pursue a wide variety of treatment options to restore or perfect their smiles. This abundance of choice is great for patients; it means that there is almost always an option best suited for their particular situation. However, it can also lead to uncertainty when it comes to seeking out the right option. This is why dental education is so important. If a patient is unaware of all the options at their disposal, they may overlook an important one and select a new dentist that does not offer it – leading them to unsatisfactory results.
A dental crown is a restorative dentistry option with many uses. In fact, dental crowns have so many applications that patients may be unsure of when they would actually benefit from them. The purpose of this article is to shed some light on the many uses of dental crowns. This way, if you are experiencing an issue for which a dental crown may be the best solution, you will know to seek a dentist that offers them.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap used to cover a damaged tooth and make up for the missing material. Dental crowns are also used to replace missing teeth. They are often made of ceramic materials such as porcelain, but they can also be constructed with other materials including various types of metal. Dental crowns are permanently affixed to make up for missing teeth or tooth material.
Why Would I Need a Dental Crown?
Damaged or Decayed Teeth
If one or more of your teeth lose their form due to damage or decay, you may be faced with problems such as further damage or reduced tooth function. Dental crowns are used to cover the tooth and restore its full appearance, form and functionality to prevent the need for extraction.
Improved Esthetics
Sometimes your teeth simply do not look how you would like them to. This may be due to misshapenness, excessive wear, minor chipping or any number of other issues. Because a crown is customized and cover the surface of a tooth, they can be a great solution for improving the appearance of your smile.
Root Canal Treatment
Root canals occur when the pulp of a tooth becomes infected. The pulp is the center of a tooth where its nerve and blood vessels are located. If this pulp becomes infected, your dentist will need to remove the infected material by creating or widening a pathway to the center of a tooth. Once the material is removed and the tooth is extracted, the pathway will be sealed with a crown designed to fit your tooth.
Dental Implants
A dental implant is a surgically attached metal fixture that fuses to your jaw. It serves as a replacement to the root of a tooth that has been lost or extracted. Once the implant is affixed, a crown shaped like your natural tooth will be affixed to the new “root” to act as a new permanent tooth.
Do you have a missing or damaged tooth that you would like to restore or repair? Dental crowns might be the perfect option for you! If you have more questions about dental crowns in Broomfield, CO or any other form of restorative dentistry, call Petersen Family Dentistry today at (720) 308–9798 or contact us online.
