What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a custom-sized cap that is placed over a tooth that may have been decayed, damaged, weak, or misshapen. This is often required following a root canal procedure where the tooth needs to be protected and reinforced. Dental crowns are used for both cosmetic dentistry and dental restoration purposes. They can also be used on an artificial tooth attached to dental implants or on adjacent teeth to support a dental bridge.
As a protective cover, dental crowns not only enhance the appearance and strength of the tooth but can also help with chewing and speech difficulties associated with tooth damage or loss. Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, porcelain, resin, or ceramic, each with its benefits and drawbacks.
Why Choose Dental Crowns?
1. Natural Tooth Restoration
Dental crowns are an excellent solution for tooth damage resulting from severe tooth decay or fractured teeth. They work by acting as a “cap” for the damaged tooth, effectively restoring the tooth’s natural structure and providing the necessary strength for normal function.
2. Protection Against Further Decay
Dental crowns not only restore damaged teeth but also serve as a shield against further decay. This makes them a particularly effective solution in cases of extensive decay where deep fillings might not suffice. After removing the decayed portion of the tooth, a dental crown is placed over the remaining tooth structure.
3. Aesthetic Improvement
Aside from the functional benefits, dental crowns also offer significant cosmetic advantages. For individuals coping with discolored or misshapen teeth, crowns can provide an immediate improvement. They are made to mimic the color, shape, and size of natural teeth, resulting in a more consistent and attractive smile.
4. Versatility
Dental crowns are highly versatile and can be used in conjunction with other dental procedures. They can be used as abutment teeth for dental bridges, giving support to the prosthetic tooth in the gap between teeth. Crowns also play a significant role in dental implant procedures, acting as the visible portion of the tooth replacement.
How Is Our Dental Crown Process Done?
1. Initial Dental Visit and Examination
When it comes to Reston dental crowns, the process starts with an initial consultation at our dental office. Our team of experienced dental experts will conduct a thorough examination of your dental health. This includes examining broken, weak, or decayed teeth that might require a crown.
2. Dental Treatment Plan
If a dental crown is appropriate, our dental team will develop a customized treatment plan. This plan might include additional tooth structure or adjacent teeth therapy. They also review dental crown options with you, including a choice of material like a ceramic crown, gold crown, or a crown with a metal substructure.
3. Dental Crown Procedures
Upon finalizing the treatment plan, the dental crown procedure commences, involving preparation of the tooth structure, possible crown lengthening for a proper fit, and placement of a temporary crown. We utilize digital scan technology for precise mapping of the real tooth, sending the data to a dental laboratory for the fabrication of the permanent crown.
4. Permanent Crown Placement
Once the permanent crown is ready, you will have your second appointment for the permanent crown placement. During this visit, the temporary crown is removed, and the newly fabricated permanent crown is checked for fit. The dentist may make some adjustments to ensure that the crown fits perfectly on your tooth.
After ensuring proper fit, the dentist will use dental cement to permanently bond the crown to your tooth. This process typically takes about 5-10 minutes, and you should feel little or no discomfort during this time.
Once the cement has fully hardened, the dentist will check your bite to make sure it feels natural and does not interfere with your other teeth. Any necessary adjustments will be made before polishing the crown to give it a smooth finish.
5. Post-Crown Placement Care
After getting your permanent crown placed, it is essential to take good care of it to ensure its longevity.
Here are some tips to follow:
- Avoid chewing on hard foods or objects, such as ice or pens, as they can damage the crown.
- Brush your teeth regularly with a soft-bristled toothbrush and use an antimicrobial mouthwash to keep your mouth clean and free of bacteria.
- Floss around the crowned tooth gently to remove any food particles that may get stuck between the crown and the adjacent teeth.
- Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups to ensure that the crown is in good condition and to address any issues or concerns.
- If you experience any pain or discomfort with your crowned tooth, contact your dentist immediately. It may indicate an underlying problem that needs to be addressed.
Get Your Dental Crowns at Reston Serenity Smiles Today
At Reston Serenity Smiles, we understand that each patient’s needs are unique. We offer a wide range of dental crown options to ensure every patient gets the necessary treatment. Our team is committed to providing you with a pleasing smile and the highest quality dental care possible.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about our dental crowns in Reston, VA.