Am I Crown Candidate?

If your tooth gets to the point where even a filling may not be effective, you may be due for a crown. So, what exactly is a crown? A crown, or cap, is a restoration that is typically necessary when a tooth is significantly broken down. The crown covers a tooth to restore it to its normal appearance and function. When a tooth is cracked/fractured, misshapen, discolored, or if there is a minimal amount of tooth remaining to provide support for a large filling, a crown is placed to hold the tooth together to prevent any further damage from occurring.

During a crown preparation appointment, Dr. Dellinger reduces the tooth in shape and size so that a crown may be placed over it. An impression is made of the teeth and gums and sent to the lab to make a custom made crown. In the meantime, a temporary crown is placed over the tooth while the permanent crown is fabricated. At your next appointment, Dr. Dellinger will remove the temporary crown and cement the permanent crown over the tooth.

What About Appearances?

Dr. Dellinger’s primary goal is to give you a crown that closely resembles a natural tooth hence the reason for taking an impression of your teeth and gums. To achieve a certain appearance, several factors are taken into consideration including the shape, length, bite, and color of your natural teeth. Once the crown procedure is complete, your teeth will be both stronger and more attractive. If you have a specific look you wish to achieve, discuss it with Dr. Dellinger at your initial visit.

Now, why would you need a crown instead of a veneer? Crowns generally require the removal of more tooth structure compared to veneers. In other words, crowns cover more of the tooth than veneers. Crowns are the best solution to replace missing teeth or teeth that have sustained significant structural loss.

Longevity and Maintenance

Typically, a crown lasts approximately five to eight years,. Keep in mind that bad habits, such as biting your fingernails, chewing hard and/or sticky foods, and grinding will decrease the longevity of your crown. Hard foods, such as ice, could potentially fracture or damage the crown. Besides brushing your teeth twice a day, it is imperative that you floss your teeth at least once a day to prevent tooth decay or gum disease. Think of a crown as a valuable investment. By maintaining good oral hygiene habits, you can help prolong the life span of your crown.