Dental crowns in Columbus are a time-tested solution to give a damaged, broken, or decayed tooth a second chance. Read on to learn why we recommend crowns, what’s involved with getting them, and how to care for them.
Dental Crowns Purpose
Also referred to as tooth caps or caps, dental crowns are custom-shaped and shaded to fit over an entire tooth to protect and strengthen it and restore comfortable chewing function. Some reasons our dentist would recommend a crown are:
- Restore a cavity that is too large for a filling
- Protect a worn, cracked, or broken tooth
- Strengthen a tooth that’s been treated with a root canal
- Restore function and appearance to a dental implant
- Provide support for a dental bridge
- Conceal a misshapen or discolored tooth for aesthetic reasons
Dental Crowns Procedure
Getting a dental crown typically requires two appointments.
- During the first, the dentist reshapes your tooth to make space for the crown and ensure it doesn’t add bulk. This preparation ensures that the crown sits flush against the gumline, just as your natural tooth does.
- Next, your dental team takes impressions of the prepared tooth to create an accurate model. During this appointment, you and your dentist will also select a shade of white to match your smile and ensure a seamless appearance for your crown. Your dentist uses the model to prepare a temporary crown, then sends it to a dental lab that customizes your final crown.
- In about two weeks, your new crown will be ready, and you’ll return to your dentist’s office for your second appointment. They will carefully remove your temporary, check the final crown for fit and comfort, polish it, and cement it securely on your tooth.
Dental Crowns Aftercare
A dental crown doesn’t require special maintenance other than excellent oral hygiene, and a well-maintained crown can last 15 years or longer. The crown itself can’t get a cavity but remember that the tooth beneath it still can.
Modern dental materials like porcelain, zirconia, and E-max used for dental crowns today are extremely durable but not indestructible. To get the most longevity out of your dental crowns in Columbus, OH, keep the following in mind:
- Brush at least twice a day and floss once to remove bacteria-filled plaque that can cause a cavity or gum disease and threaten your crown.
- Be aware that hard or crunchy foods like crusty bread can break or damage a crown if you bite down with too much force.
- Avoid gummy or sticky candies that are loaded with sugar and notorious for pulling off dental crowns.
Are Dental Crowns in Columbus, OH Right for You?
If you have a decayed, broken, or damaged tooth and think you might need a dental crown, please call Shiflett Family Dental. Dr. Justin Shiflett will evaluate your situation and determine if a crown is the right solution for your needs.