When you’re experiencing a dental issue, you want your Sterling dentist to put your mind at ease and assure you that your smile and oral health will be restored. A dental crown is a standard procedure to help you regain your smile.
In this "Ultimate Guide to Dental Crowns," we will discuss what dental crowns are and when you might need one. We will explore the dental crown procedure in Sterling and help you understand how dental crowns can be the crowning glory of your smile.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a cap that completely covers one of your teeth; your dentist can match the color and shape of your other teeth to give your smile a seamless look while protecting a damaged or weakened tooth.
Dental Crowns Have Many Uses
There are several dental situations where a dental crown is your best treatment option, including the following:
- To Protect a Damaged Tooth — If you have been in an accident or your tooth has suffered normal wear and tear and needs reinforcement, a dental crown can protect it.
- To Restore a Decayed Tooth — If your tooth has substantial tooth decay, we may need to remove a large part of your natural tooth. A dental crown can restore your tooth structure and prevent further damage.
- To Strengthen a Tooth after Root Canal Therapy — A dental crown is commonly used after a root canal to protect and strengthen your treated tooth.
- To Cosmetically Enhance Your Smile — A dental crown can correct discolored or misshapen teeth, making it a popular cosmetic treatment option.
- To Support a Dental Bridge — A dental crown can anchor a dental bridge if you have missing teeth that need to be replaced.
- To Preserve a Large Filling — If you have a large dental filling, it can be prone to breakage. A dental crown can protect your dental filling and your tooth.
Same-Day CEREC® Crowns in Sterling
At Pradera Dental, we use the latest dental crown technology to complete your restoration as quickly as possible, often on the same day. Our in-office CEREC milling machine can create a dental crown, eliminating the need for an outside dental lab and streamlining the dental crown process.
CEREC, or Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics, uses Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) technology to build a customized dental crown while you wait comfortably in our dental office.
Here’s how it works:
- We will use a special camera to take pictures of your damaged tooth.
- Next, we will transfer the optical impression to a computer screen and use CAD to design your dental crown.
- Then, your restoration is created with computer-aided manufacturing and our CEREC milling machine.
- Finally, we will bond your new dental crown to your tooth and check for proper fit.
That’s it!
Caring for Your Dental Crown
Whether your dental crown enhances the look of your smile or strengthens a weakened tooth after a root canal, caring for it can help ensure it lasts for many years. Follow these tips to keep your dental crown looking as good as new:
- Avoid hard and sticky foods. Although your dental crown is strong and durable, it can sustain damage, so try to avoid eating hard and sticky foods as they can crack or chip your crown.
- Brush and floss your teeth. It’s essential to practice good oral hygiene to keep your dental crown looking its best. Brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing daily can help you avoid dental issues.
- Kick your bad habits. If you bite your nails or chew on ice, pens, or pencils, it’s best to try to kick those habits to avoid damage to your dental crown and other teeth. Also, if you grind your teeth, talk to your Sterling dentist about your treatment options.
- Visit your dentist regularly. The best way to ensure the best oral health possible and increase the longevity of your dental crown is to visit your dentist every six months for regular dental cleanings and checkups. Your dentist can check the condition of your dental crown when they perform an oral examination as part of your regular checkup.
Do You Have Questions about Dental Crowns in Sterling?
If you want to learn more about how dental crowns can help restore your smile, the expert dental team at Pradera Dental is ready to take your call! We can explain the process and help you form a treatment plan that fits your needs. You can reach us at (970) 522-4050 for more information or to schedule an appointment.