Having a cracked or broken tooth will not only be uncomfortable but could also make eating difficult. The longer it remains untreated, the worse it will get.
Dental crowns are an effective treatment for restoring a broken or cracked tooth. Learning about dental crowns and their uses can help you make an informed decision about your treatment plan.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over a broken tooth. It completely covers the visible region of the tooth above the gum line. Crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color of natural teeth, so they blend in with your smile.
Dentists use crowns to treat teeth that are too weak for fillings or that have cracked, fractured, or decayed extensively. Crowns can be made of porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these materials, depending on the tooth’s location and the demands of the patient.
How Crowns Repair Damaged Teeth
When a tooth fractures or cracks, its integrity is compromised. If pressure is exerted during chewing, it can result in additional injury. A dental crown is designed to help the tooth by providing support and a sturdy outer coating.
The crown acts as a barrier that absorbs chewing forces and reduces stress on the affected tooth. This protects the tooth so it can work normally again, and there is no danger of the crack widening. A crown can often save a tooth that would otherwise have to be pulled.
When Is a Crown the Right Choice?
Not all cracked or fractured teeth will necessarily require crowns. Small chips can be dealt with through either smoothing or bonding. Large cracks and fractures, however, may need a crown to cover them up.
Crowns can be recommended when there is a large crack on the tooth or when it has lost a cusp. They are also advised when a tooth has been subjected to root canal therapy. This applies when there is a considerable amount of tooth structure that has been destroyed.
The Process of Getting a Crown
Getting a dental crown normally requires two visits. In the initial visit, the dentist will examine the tooth, remove any damaged areas, and shape it to fit the crown. Then an impression is taken to make a personalized crown.
A temporary crown is sometimes placed while the permanent crown is being fabricated. At the second visit, the dentist will fit and cement the final crown in place. Once the crown is cemented, it returns the tooth to its original shape and function.
Advantages of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns can help damaged teeth in several ways. They help to restore strength and improve your appearance so that you can chew comfortably again. Crowns cover the tooth’s vulnerable spots, preventing future fractures.
With adequate care, crowns can last for several years. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental appointments will keep them in good shape and improve overall oral health.
Summing Up
A dental crown can effectively restore and protect a fractured or cracked tooth by covering it and preventing further damage. It allows you to regain normal function while preserving your natural tooth.
The dentists at 183 Family Dentistry can offer effective dental crown treatment. Call us at (512) 259-3365 and schedule an appointment.