Dental crowns are a common restorative solution in dentistry, designed to cover and protect damaged teeth. They not only restore the function of the tooth but also improve its appearance. In this article, we will explore what a crown looks like on a tooth, its purpose, the treatment procedure, and how to maintain it. Additionally, we’ll highlight the exceptional patient care provided by Family Dental Group in Missoula, MT, and discuss savings opportunities on same-day crowns through a Rubicare Health Savings membership.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over a damaged or decayed tooth. It is designed to restore the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance. They are often used when a tooth is too damaged to be repaired with a filling but not damaged enough to be extracted. They can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of materials.
Purpose of a Dental Crown
Crowns serve several essential functions in dental care, including:
- Protection: They protect a weak or damaged tooth from further decay or fracture.
- Restoration: They restore the function of a broken or worn-down tooth, enabling proper chewing and biting.
- Aesthetic Improvement: They improve the appearance of a tooth by covering discoloration, misshapen, or unattractive teeth.
- Support: They can support a tooth with a large filling or hold a dental bridge in place.
- Post-Root Canal Therapy: After a root canal procedure, a crown is often used to protect the treated tooth.
What Does a Crown Look Like on a Tooth?
A crown, once placed, looks and feels like a natural tooth. Its appearance depends on the material used:
- Porcelain or Ceramic Crowns: These are designed to match the color and translucency of your natural teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable from your other teeth.
- Metal Crowns: Made from gold or other metal alloys, these crowns are highly durable but are more noticeable due to their metallic color.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: These crowns have a metal base covered with porcelain, offering both strength and a natural appearance. However, a thin metal line might be visible at the gum line.
- Zirconia Crowns: These offer both strength and aesthetics, as zirconia can be color-matched to your teeth.
Regardless of the material, crowns are custom-made to fit snugly over the prepared tooth, restoring its shape and function while blending seamlessly with your natural teeth.
The Crown Treatment Procedure
The process typically involves several steps:
1. Initial Consultation and Examination
During the initial visit, your dentist will examine the affected tooth and take X-rays to assess the extent of the damage. This helps determine whether a crown is the best solution.
2. Tooth Preparation
The dentist will numb the area around the tooth and remove any decay or old fillings. The tooth is then reshaped to make room for the crown. If a significant portion of the tooth is missing, the dentist may build up the tooth with filling material.
3. Impressions and Temporary Crown
After reshaping, the dentist takes an impression of the tooth and the surrounding teeth. This impression is sent to a dental lab where the crown is custom-made. Meanwhile, a temporary crown is placed over the prepared tooth to protect it.
4. Crown Placement
Once the permanent crown is ready, you will return to the dentist for placement. The temporary crown is removed, and the new crown is checked for fit and color. If everything looks good, it is cemented in place.
5. Final Adjustments
The dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure it fits comfortably and functions correctly. You may need a follow-up visit to check on the placement and make any further adjustments.
Maintaining Your Dental Crown
Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity of your crown. Here are some tips to help you maintain your dental crown:
1. Oral Hygiene
Continue to brush and floss your teeth regularly. Pay extra attention to the area around the crown to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease.
2. Avoid Hard Foods
Avoid biting down on hard foods or objects, such as ice, hard candy, or pens, which can cause damage.
3. Regular Dental Visits
Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist can monitor the condition of your crown and address any issues promptly.
4. Address Issues Immediately
If it becomes loose, chipped, or falls off, contact your dentist immediately to have it repaired or replaced.
Family Dental Groupin Missoula, MT
At Family Dental Group in Missoula, MT, patient care is their top priority. With a team of highly skilled and compassionate dental professionals, they provide a wide range of dental services, including crown placement. Their state-of-the-art facility and commitment to excellence ensure that every patient receives the highest level of care. Whether you need a routine check-up or a complex restorative procedure, Family Dental Group is dedicated to helping you achieve optimal oral health.
Emergency Same-Day Crowns
Sometimes fillings or crowns fall out. In some cases, a filling or crown may become loose because there is decay underneath it. The decay destroys part of the tooth, so it no longer has a tight hold on the crown or filling. These situations are rarely an emergency but getting dental treatment soon will prevent further damage and cost to restore the tooth. However, it can be painful because the exposed tooth tissue is often sensitive to temperature, pressure, or air.
If you lose a crown, put it in a safe place and make an appointment to see us as soon as possible. Don’t wait too long. Be sure to bring it in to your dental appointment. What is left of the tooth will not be as strong as your crown. It could be damaged more without the crown to protect it. Also, when a crown is missing for a long time, your teeth may move into the space where the crown was. If this happens, your crown may no longer fit.
Savings on Same-Day Crowns with Rubicare Health Savings Membership
One of the advantages of choosing Family Dental Group, is their partnership with Rubicare. With a Rubicare Health Savings membership, you can enjoy significant savings on same-day crowns and other dental services. This membership plan offers affordable, high-quality dental care without the hassle of traditional insurance. By enrolling in Rubicare, you can access expert dental care at a fraction of the cost, making it easier to maintain your oral health.
Conclusion
A dental crown is a versatile and effective solution for restoring damaged teeth, providing protection, functionality, and improved aesthetics. Understanding what a crown looks like on a tooth, its purpose, the treatment procedure, and how to maintain it can help you make informed decisions about your dental care. Family Dental Group, offers exceptional patient care, and with a Rubicare Health Savings membership, you can achieve a healthy, beautiful smile without breaking the bank. If you have any questions or concerns about dental crowns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist for more information.
