Dental Crowns Have Multiple Functions
Restore a fractured tooth: Our teeth are very strong, but years of chewing or grinding coupled with biting down on something hard can result in a broken tooth. While extraction may seem like the easy way to resolve this situation, leaving a space allows for other dental problems to occur. Teeth may begin to shift toward the open area resulting in a malocclusion. Chewing is disrupted placing additional wear and tear on remaining teeth. When a tooth is lost, the bone that held that tooth in place will atrophy. This bone loss could impact neighboring teeth placing them at risk.
Resolve deep dental decay: A cavity can be repaired up to a point. Once decay threatens the viability of a tooth, a dental crown may be the best option to save the damaged tooth.
Seal a tooth following endodontic therapy: If a root canal is needed to save a tooth, an opening is created in the tooth. That opening must be sealed, and a dental crown is often used for that task.
Crowns to attach partials or bridges: If tooth loss should occur and you opt for a fixed dental prosthesis, crowns can be used as anchors for needed dental work.
The final step for a dental implant: A dental implant is a very natural way to correct tooth loss. This option allows the patient to eat all their favorite foods while never having to worry about slippage. This restoration looks great and provides the same appearance and function as your biological tooth.
Caring For A Tooth With a Dental Crown
You will brush and floss daily just as you do for all your teeth. There are no special steps needed to care for your dental crown. The first couple of days following placement of your crown, you should avoid very sticky foods to allow your crown time to thoroughly cure. But you are then free to eat your favorite foods. If your crown should become dislodged, salvage it (if possible) so your dentist can cement it back in place.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact our team at Brend Dental today.