Dental crowns are one of the most useful tools in a dentist’s arsenal. They’re able to be used for many fixes, both cosmetic and restorative, for your teeth. Dr. Scott Finlay, an Annapolis family dentist, discusses the many uses of dental crowns at his office.
Strengthening Natural Teeth
One way crowns are commonly used is to strengthen your natural teeth. When a root canal is performed, the tooth is often capped with a dental crown afterward. A root canal requires removing the infected dental pulp from inside your tooth. The hollow space is filled with a biocompatible material, but your tooth still isn’t as stable as before. The crown gives you back the full functionality and helps to seal off the tooth from further infection.
When you’re getting a dental bridge, one of the downsides is the impact it has on the anchor teeth. A bridge causes extra wear and tear on those anchor teeth and makes them more susceptible to tooth decay and further problems. Putting dental crowns on those anchor teeth helps prevent these issues from happening.
Covering Discolored or Misshapen Teeth
There are certain conditions that make tooth stains or discoloration resistant to traditional whitening techniques. In particular, certain medications may create spots on the teeth that are hard to get off. A dental crown can be color-matched to the rest of your smile so that your teeth can be one even shade. Crowns go over the entire tooth and can be used on every one that has these stains.
Misshapen teeth can make you self-conscious. Depending on their defect and where they’re located in your mouth, they can also make it harder for you to chew or speak. Dental crowns are made to blend in with your smile, so they can be shaped to match the rest of your normal teeth. You’ll also get the full functionality back in that tooth.
Taking Care of Damaged Teeth
It doesn’t matter whether it’s a simple cosmetic chip or a more severe break or crack, a dental crown can take care of it. It goes over the entire tooth, which means you’ll have a smooth tooth and the cracks won’t be able to be seen. It can replace part of the tooth that breaks off if you have a severe break. You’ll also get the full functionality back in your tooth and won’t have to struggle with pain.
Being the Final Restoration for Dental Implants
Dental crowns are the most common final restoration for dental implants. It contributes to implants being the most natural form of tooth replacement. Placing a dental crown on top makes it feel completely like a natural tooth. They’re also easy to maintain, requiring just a normal brushing and flossing routine and regular visits to your dentist.
Dental Crowns From Your Annapolis Family Dentist
Could a dental crown be the solution to your dental problem? Call us or schedule an appointment online.