Dental Crowns and Oral Health

Dental crowns are custom-made caps placed over a damaged, decayed, or aesthetically compromised tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Made from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination, crowns are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal. They are typically recommended for teeth that have undergone significant decay, have large fillings, or have been treated with a root canal, providing protection and preventing further damage. The procedure involves preparing the affected tooth by removing any decayed or weakened areas, followed by taking an impression to create a custom-fitted crown. Once the crown is fabricated, it is cemented onto the prepared tooth, fully encasing it and restoring its natural function. Crowns not only enhance the durability and appearance of teeth but also play a crucial role in maintaining overall oral health by preserving the integrity of your natural teeth and improving bite alignment. 

How Dental Crowns Help in Treating Tooth Decay?

Protecting the Tooth 

When tooth decay is severe, it can lead to significant loss of tooth structure. Dental crowns act as a protective cover, encasing the entire tooth above the gum line. This shield prevents further decay and damage by isolating the tooth from external factors such as bacteria, food particles, and oral acids. By covering the decayed portion, crowns help to prevent additional deterioration and maintain the tooth's function. 

Restoring Tooth Structure 

Tooth decay often weakens tooth structure, making it prone to fractures or breakage. A dental crown in Herriman, UT, restores the tooth's original shape and size, reinforcing its strength and durability. This restoration is crucial for teeth that have undergone extensive decay and are at risk of splitting or breaking under normal chewing pressures. 

Preventing Further Damage 

By placing a crown over a tooth treated for decay, you help safeguard against future damage. Crownscover any remaining weakened areas, reducing the risk of additional decay and structural compromise. This preventive measure extends the life of the tooth and minimizes the need for more extensive treatments in the future. 

Aesthetic Improvement 

Crownsoffer an aesthetic solution in cases where decay has caused tooth discoloration or distortion. Modern crowns can be crafted from materials that closely match your teeth' natural color and appearance, ensuring that the restored tooth blends seamlessly with the rest of your smile. 

How to Choose the Right Dental Crown for Your Needs? 

Choosing the right dental crown involves several important considerations to ensure that the crown effectively meets both functional and aesthetic needs. The choice of material is one of the primary factors to consider. Porcelain crowns are often preferred for their natural appearance, making them an excellent choice for front teeth where aesthetics are crucial. They blend seamlessly with the surrounding teeth and are resistant to staining. Ceramic crowns offer similar benefits and are also suitable for both front and back teeth, providing durability and a natural look. For back teeth, where strength and durability are paramount, porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns are a strong option. They combine the strength of metal with the aesthetic qualities of porcelain, though the metal base may be visible at the gum line. 

The location of the crown plays a significant role in the decision-making process. For crowns on front teeth, aesthetics take precedence, so materials like porcelain or ceramic are usually recommended due to their superior appearance. In contrast, back teeth require crowns that can withstand heavy chewing forces. Metal or PFM crowns are often chosen for these locations due to their durability and resistance to wear. Durability and longevity are also essential; metal crowns, for instance, are highly durable and resistant to damage, making them suitable for high-pressure areas. While offering excellent aesthetics, porcelain and ceramic crowns are also durable enough for various applications but may be weaker than metal crowns in some cases. 

Cost considerations are another critical aspect of choosing the right crown. Resin crowns are the most budget-friendly option but may provide a different level of durability or aesthetic appeal than other materials. Investing in higher-quality materials like porcelain or ceramic may incur higher costs but can offer long-term benefits in terms of appearance and performance. Consulting withour dentist in Herriman, UT, is crucial in this decision-making process. Our dentist will assess your situation, including the condition of your tooth, your bite, and your personal aesthetic preferences. They can provide expert recommendations and help you weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each material to ensure you select the best crown for your specific needs. Ultimately, selecting the right dental crown involves evaluating material options, considering the location and function of the crown, understanding durability and cost factors, and working closely with our dentist. Considering these factors, you can choose a crown that will effectively restore your tooth's function while enhancing your smile. Contact us to learn more. 

Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Smile with Dental Crowns 

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. 

• Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles around the crown and between teeth. 

• Visit our dentist every six months for professional cleanings and examinations. 

• Refrain from chewing on hard substances like ice, nuts, or candies that could damage the crown. 

• To protect your crowns and natural teeth, wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth or participate in contact sports. 

• Be aware of any changes, such as discomfort, sensitivity, or loosening of the crown. 

• Do not use your teeth or crowns to open packages or bite into non-food objects, as this can damage both the crowns and natural teeth. 

Restore both function and aesthetics with a tailored dental crown that perfectly matches your natural teeth. Visit Silver Summit Dental at 5734 W 13400 S, Herriman, UT 84096, or call (801) 542-0998 to schedule your appointment today and experience the confidence that comes with a perfect smile.