Dental Crowns: A Protective Helmet for Your Teeth

Dental CrownsWhile attending a barbecue with a group of friends, they pull you in for a group selfie. Squeezing together to fit on the phone screen, you try to hide behind others and avoid smiling; afraid that they will see the damaged tooth in your smile. Dental procedures exist to help fix this problem and give people an aesthetically pleasing smile.

Repairing, replacing, and perfecting your smile

No matter how clean or careful someone is with his or her teeth, everyone has the same chance of damaging their teeth in an accident. Anyone can damage a tooth while playing sports, driving, working, eating hard foods, or hanging out with friends. Dental crowns are a helpful tool that dentists use to repair the damage to a tooth.

The American Dental Association, ADA, describes a dental crown as, “a good way to cover teeth that are discolored or badly shaped.” The ADA also lists the other uses dental crowns have, which include:

  • Helping to strengthen a tooth with a large filling
  • Attaching bridges between teeth
  • Protecting a weak tooth from breaking
  • Covering a dental implant

More often than not, when an individual chips or damages a tooth, the individual is content to hold off on visiting a dental. This will only lead to more pain and the need to completely replace the tooth. A dental crown procedure does not take too long and can be a long-lasting solution to a dental issue.

What are dental crowns made of?

People may believe that dental crowns will be made of metal and look obvious. That thought could not be farther from the truth. With the advancements in dental technology, there are several possible materials for dental crowns that blend in with the other teeth.

The ADA explains that the common materials dentist use in crowns and implants include:

  • All-porcelain (ceramic)
  • Porcelain fused to metal
  • Gold alloys (with copper and other metals)
  • Base metal alloys (silver appearance)

The color of the ceramic crown blends in with the rest of the teeth, displaying an aesthetically pleasing and healthy appearance. Since metal crowns reside on the tops of teeth, like a cap, they are not easily noticeable.

Another concern people may have about dental crowns is the length of the procedure. Patients do not need to worry as dental technology can make installing dental crowns a one-time visit. The Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics, or CEREC, allows dentists to shorten this process by providing patients with inlays, onlays, crowns and veneers in only one appointment.

It is important to note that not all dentists use CEREC crowns in their treatment. In other situations, one type of dental crown may not be the best choice for the situation. Speak to a dentist about dental crowns or another oral appliance and see what the best choice for your oral health is. There is no need to avoid taking photos because of your teeth. Get the smile you deserve today.

Long Grove Dental

At Long Grove Dental in Long Grove, IL, we will provide patients with the necessary information and support to select the best treatment method. We want patients to leave our office with a healthier and brighter smile. After scheduling an appointment, we will examine your teeth and offer a treatment method to your needs.

We hope to set patients on the right path for a long life of healthy teeth and gums. Call us today and schedule an appointment for a dental checkup, dental issue, cleaning, or possible restoration work.

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