While teeth are usually durable, there are often times when things happen to them that we wish would not. For example, maybe you chipped a tooth, or perhaps you cracked one. Or it could be that due to some other issue a tooth has become weaker. Sure, these experiences are not preferable for your oral health and smile, but they can be treated by your Gary, IN, dentist with dental crowns. This common procedure will have you smiling in no time. Curious to learn more? Read on.
If You Are Thinking They Are Similar To A Cap, You Are Correct
Imagine crowns as little caps that teeth wear. We use them for a variety of ways, including covering implants and teeth that have changed color, protecting a weak tooth, and attaching dental bridges. Some of the ways they are made are with metal alloys, composite resin, or ceramics. However, we recommend porcelain crowns. They have a natural appearance that closely matches the color of your teeth. And as it is said in real estate, location, location, location matters. Depending on where in your mouth it will go, and the health of your gum tissue, will determine what kind we use. Also, if you hear about “onlays” or “3/4 crowns,” those are ones that partially cover teeth, compared to traditional ones that cover the whole tooth.
What Happens When I Make An Appointment To Get One?
The traditional treatment often takes at least two appointments. The first one starts with using advanced dental technology to create a precise treatment strategy. Once that is in place, the tooth is reshaped and an impression is made of it. This impression is used by dental lab technicians when building a crown that matches the rest of the teeth. A temporary one is placed on the tooth while waiting for the lab to send back its result. Once that is done, the permanent one is fitted and bonded into place. However, with our CEREC technology, we can now complete the whole treatment in one visit.
Who Are They Good For?
Dental crowns are good for people who have had a root canal treatment, who have a tooth that is cracked or chipped, or who have teeth that are misshapen. They can help strengthen a weak tooth, too. If they are treated well, their lifespan is up to 15 years. Good oral health habits will help them last as long as possible. We also recommend that you avoid using your teeth to open packages and be aware when eating hard foods. And if you grind your teeth at night, a mouthguard will help protect them, and all the rest of your teeth.
Come See Us Today For A Dental Crown
At Healthy Smiles of Northwest Indiana, we would love to help repair any chipped or cracked tooth you may have. To find out more, or to schedule your appointment, call Healthy Smiles in Gary, IN, today at 219-938-2637.