What can you do to protect a weak tooth? Here at Enid Dental Care, your dentist, Dr. Stephanie Herbst, may recommend placing a porcelain crown, a tooth-shaped cap that covers the healthy portions of your tooth. Crowns have improved smiles for generations, and with today's sophisticated materials and processes, you're assured of a reliable restoration that lasts.
Conditions which require a crown
Many conditions jeopardize the health and viability of a tooth. Tooth decay and gum disease are the most common dental problems among American adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Infection and injury threaten oral health, as well.
While dental extraction is sometimes the only answer in extreme cases, a better solution is often found in the dental crown, which is able to preserve oral function, smile appearance, gum tissue, jaw bone integrity and the position and strength of adjacent teeth.
Additionally, dental crowns provide support for fixed bridges composed or one or more artificial teeth, and are generally the final step in root canal therapy.
Receiving a dental crown
At Enid Dental Care, your dentist will review your symptoms and perform a complete exam and X-ray screening. If your tooth is viable, she will reshape the tooth to remove the damaged portions and take oral impressions and photos. With this information, a dental lab shapes and colors your restoration.
During the following appointment, Dr. Herbst will remove your temporary crown and bond its permanent replacement in its place. A few bite adjustments then complete your crown treatment.
Caring for a crown
Animated-teeth.com says that 75 to 80 percent of porcelain crowns last at least a decade. The key to longevity is good care, both at home and in the dental office. This care includes:
- Daily flossing to keep ahead of toxic plaque and tartar
- Twice daily brushing
- Semi-annual check-ups and cleanings at Enid Dental Care
- Reducing staining foods and beverages
- Stopping smoking to avoid stains and gum problems at crown margins
- Wearing an occlusive guard (bite guard) to reduce premature wear from teeth clenching and grinding
Don't extract: protect instead
A dental crown can save your smile by protecting a weak, decayed, or damaged tooth. For additional details on this wonderful restoration, please contact Enid Dental Care for a consultation with Dr. Herbst. Phone us today at (580) 237-2213.