When Laura chipped her tooth on a crunchy snack, she felt a mix of worry and embarrassment. The small accident left a noticeable mark on her smile, and she wondered how it could be fixed without a drastic procedure. That’s when she discovered dental crowns—a reliable solution to restore damaged teeth both functionally and aesthetically.
Dental crowns are custom-made caps placed over damaged or decayed teeth to restore their shape, size, strength, and appearance. They are an effective treatment for a variety of dental issues, such as:
- Protecting a weak tooth from breaking or holding together parts of a cracked tooth.
- Restoring an already broken or severely worn tooth.
- Covering and supporting a tooth with a large filling when there isn’t enough tooth left.
- Holding a dental bridge in place.
- Covering misshapen or severely discolored teeth.
- Completing a dental implant procedure.
The process of getting a dental crown usually involves two visits. During the first appointment, the dentist in Wellesley prepares the tooth by removing any decay and shaping it to fit the crown. An impression of the tooth is then taken to create a custom crown that matches the color and contour of your natural teeth. A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth until the permanent one is ready.
At the second visit, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is fitted and bonded to the tooth with dental cement. The result is a tooth that looks and functions just like your natural teeth. With proper care, dental crowns can last many years, providing a durable solution to dental problems.
Different materials can be used for crowns, including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of materials. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are popular for their natural look, especially for front teeth. Metal crowns are stronger and may be recommended for molars that need to withstand heavy chewing forces.
Caring for a dental crown is similar to maintaining your natural teeth. Regular brushing and flossing help prevent decay and gum disease around the crowned tooth. It’s also advisable to avoid hard or sticky foods that could damage the crown.
Dental crowns offer numerous benefits:
- Enhanced Appearance: They improve the look of teeth that are discolored, misshapen, or damaged.
- Improved Functionality: Crowns restore the ability to chew and speak properly.
- Durability: Made from strong materials, crowns are designed to last many years.
- Protection: They shield weakened teeth from further damage.
For Laura, getting a dental crown meant regaining her confident smile without extensive dental work. She was pleased with how natural her tooth looked and felt after the procedure.
If you’re dealing with a damaged, decayed, or unsightly tooth, a dental crown might be the right solution for you. It’s a straightforward procedure that can make a significant difference in your oral health and self-esteem.
At Wellesley Dental, we’re committed to providing personalized care and advanced restorative options like dental crowns to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
