Alongside poor dental hygiene or dental problems, teeth are susceptible to other threats that can adversely affect smiles. Chipped or cracked teeth can occur from eating hard candies or food, popcorn kernels, and even ice chips. Another common threat can come from playing a very physical sport such as hockey or basketball. There is a high possibility, regardless how diligent an individual is, there remains the possibility there will be damage to a tooth in one’s lifetime. A common solution to enhance the aesthetics and oral health is restoring or preserving the tooth with a dental crown also referred to as a cap.
A dental crown is completely placed over a tooth protecting it against experiencing cavities or further trauma. The versatile crown can be used to protect a tooth that has been broken or severely damaged by decay, to hold together parts of a cracked tooth, to hold together a dental bridge, to cover a severely discolored or misshapen tooth, or to cover a dental implant. With a variety of materials to fabricate the durable crown, it can effectively cover the tooth visibility around the gum line.
Mostly all dental crowns have the appearance of a natural tooth. With a porcelain crown, it reflects light similar to enamel and thus enables simple color shade matching to the neighboring teeth making them appear natural. A dental professional will be able to explain the various options and solutions involving a dental crown.
Generally there is minimal preparation required for a dental crown procedure. All it requires is a small amount of local anesthetic applied to the tooth, and then the crown can be permanently cemented into place. With the normal recommended brushing and flossing, dental crowns can last up to 15 years and does not require any special or additional care. Dental crowns not only function to improve your oral health but further contribute to aesthetic smiles.
If you would like more information on dental crowns, the friendly associates at Los Coches Cosmetic Dentistry will be happy to assist you at (760) 633-4488.