If you have a damaged or decayed tooth, a dental crown may be a solution for you. Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps that are placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. They can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, and metal alloys.

Why Might You Need a Dental Crown?

There are several reasons why you might need a dental crown:

1. To protect a weak tooth: If a tooth is weakened by decay or a large filling, a dental crown can help protect it from further damage.
2. To restore a broken tooth: A dental crown can be used to restore a tooth that is broken or severely worn down.
3. To support a dental bridge: If you are missing one or more teeth, a dental bridge can be used to fill the gap. A dental crown is placed on either side of the gap to support the bridge.
4. To cover a dental implant: If you have a dental implant, a dental crown is placed on top of it to create a natural-looking replacement tooth.

What Are the Steps Involved in Getting a Dental Crown?

Getting a dental crown typically involves two appointments with your dentist. Here are the steps involved:

1. Preparing the tooth: Your dentist will first prepare the damaged tooth by removing any decayed or damaged portions. They will then reshape the tooth to make room for the crown.
2. Taking impressions: Your dentist will take impressions of your teeth, before and after preparation, to create a custom-fitted crown that will match the size, shape, and color of your existing teeth.
3. Placing a temporary crown: While your permanent crown is being made, your dentist will place a temporary crown over the prepared tooth to protect it.
4. Placing the permanent crown: Once your permanent crown is ready, your dentist will remove the temporary crown and place the permanent crown over the prepared tooth. They will then make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns offer several benefits, including:

1. Restoring the appearance of your smile: Dental crowns are designed to look, function, and feel like your natural teeth, which can help restore your confidence in your smile.
2. Protecting your teeth: Dental crowns can help protect weakened or damaged teeth from further decay or damage.
3. Improving your bite: Dental crowns can help improve your bite by restoring the shape and function of your teeth.
4. Long-lasting: With proper care, dental crowns can last for many years, making them a long-lasting solution for dental problems.

In conclusion, dental crowns can be a great solution for a variety of dental problems. If you think you might benefit from a dental crown, talk to your Shoreline dentist to learn more about the process and whether it’s right for you.