Extensive infections or trauma can cause serious problems with a tooth. Rather than remove it, your dentist may resolve the issue and recommend a dental crown to strengthen the tooth. If you’re exploring dental solutions with your dentist, use the following to help with your decision.

What to Know About Dental Crowns

How do dental crowns work?

A dental crown is a cap that’s placed over a tooth. They’re designed from an impression of the existing tooth to ensure a snug fit. Your dentist will use a powerful adhesive to hold the dental crown in place. They’ll fit comfortably into your smile, and, depending on the material, can be completely natural-looking.

Dental crowns are made of porcelain, ceramic, and metal alloy. Alloys are the longest-lasting, though they’re the most obvious because of their metallic color. Porcelain and ceramic are often recommended for front teeth and are the most natural-looking.

When would I need a crown?

This dental solution is used to address teeth that are damaged from root canal therapy, fractures, and large breaks. You’ll typically qualify for a dental crown as long as you don’t have a serious dental issue, like gum disease or oral cancer.

Crowns may also be used to fill small gaps. If you’re missing teeth, a pair of dental crowns can be crafted to fit over the teeth adjacent to an empty socket. This is called a dental bridge, and it’ll hold a prosthetic tooth that will fit into the empty socket.

What’s the procedure like?

Dental crown procedures take two appointments. During the first, a dentist will take an impression of the tooth and send it to a dental lab to craft the cap. They’ll also apply a temporary crown to wear until your next visit.

At the following appointment, your dentist will reshape the tooth so the crown can fit comfortably over it. They’ll use a local anesthetic to numb the area during the procedure; then apply the crown.

How do I care for them?

Dental crowns last 15 years with proper care. Treat them like your natural teeth. Brush and floss twice a day and avoid chewing hard foods and ice, as well as gnawing on non-edible objects, like pens. Schedule two dental checkups each year for a professional cleaning. During this appointment, your dentist will also inspect the crowns for signs of wear.

If you think you need a dental crown, contact Stephen R. Ho DDS, in Waikiki, HI. This experienced dentist and his team help patients of all ages achieve and maintain beautiful smiles. Alongside general care, they offer several cosmetic dentistry services, including crowns, veneers, and teeth whitening treatments. View their full list of services online, or call (808) 949-4288 to schedule an appointment.