Tooth enamel is the strongest material in the human body – it’s even stronger than bone! That said, it’s not indestructible. After all, your teeth are subjected to pressure from biting and chewing every day, as well as acids from your foods and drinks. So, it’s not uncommon for teeth to develop cavities, chips, or cracks from time to time. Not every damaged tooth can be repaired with a filling, though. Sometimes, a dental crown is the best option to make your tooth look and feel good as new. Here at Dentistry By Brand, our dentists use only the highest-quality materials to create these custom tooth caps. If a broken or damaged tooth has been making it hard to eat or smile, call our team to find out if dental crowns in Garland are right for you!
A dental crown, also known as a cap, is a tooth-shaped covering designed to fit over the entire portion of the tooth that is visible above the gums. While their primary purpose is to restore structure and function to a damaged tooth, they can also be placed for cosmetic reasons, such as building up a tooth that is “too short.”
Modern dental crowns look much more lifelike than the silver or gold ones common in generations past. These days, we typically use porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. These restorations are made mostly of a metal with a layer of dental ceramic on the outside. This solution combines the durability of metal crowns with the aesthetic superiority of porcelain crowns, giving our patients the best of both worlds.
In most cases, getting a dental crown only takes two short appointments spaced a few weeks apart. During the first of these appointments, your dentist in Garland will begin by gently reshaping your tooth, whether that involves building up the tooth structure or removing a thin outer layer of enamel to ensure the crown fits within the line of your smile. Then, we’ll take impressions and measurements of your mouth. These data are sent to a highly trusted dental lab in Garland.
While the team at the lab gets to work on crafting your personalized crown, we can place a temporary crown over your tooth. Not only does this give the tooth some protection, but it lets you get an idea of how your restoration will look and feel in your mouth. Once the permanent crown arrives at our office, you’ll return for your second appointment. This visit should be brief; all we have to do is make any necessary last-minute adjustments, ensure your crown fits well, and cement it into place.
By placing a dental crown over a broken, decayed, or otherwise damaged tooth, you can reap a great many benefits, including:
Dental crowns in Garland cannot get cavities, but that doesn't mean you can stop brushing your teeth. Any exposed tooth surface is still vulnerable to decay. Cavities can also occur underneath your restoration. Small cracks will form in the dental cement holding your crown in place over time. Bacteria from plaque and tartar buildup can gain access to your tooth through the cracks. You can prevent tooth decay with good oral hygiene and limiting sugary foods and drinks. Don't forget to visit your dentist every 6 months for a dental checkup. They can detect the early stages of tooth decay to prevent it from worsening.
Dental crowns are not porous like your enamel, so teeth whitening will have no effect on their color. In addition, whitening ingredients may weaken the bonding material holding your crown in place, which can cause it to fall off. There are also concerns about color inconsistencies. Teeth whitening will get your enamel many shades brighter, but your crown will be unchanged, which can cause it to look unnatural. You don't have to live with tooth discoloration. Your dentist will create a personalized plan to ensure seamless results without damaging your crown.
Your dentist in Garland will keep your comfort as their top priority. They may use a numbing medication to block pain signals while prepping your tooth for your crown. At most, you may feel some pressure or unusual sensations. Although you will not have any pain when getting your dental crown, you may experience temporary tenderness after the effects of any medications wear off. You can manage it using an over-the-counter pain reliever and eating soft foods. Your dentist will review any specific aftercare instructions before you go home.
A dental crown can last for 10 years or more, but several things affect their life expectancy, like the quality of the materials used. In addition, your oral hygiene habits, diet, and other factors can influence the lifespan of your restoration. You can ensure your crown serves you for many years by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily. Moderate your consumption of hard or chewy foods to put less wear and tear on your crown. If you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, wear a nightguard to protect your smile. Visit your dentist twice a year for a cleaning and checkup to keep your mouth healthy. They will check your crown at each appointment to ensure it is still functioning as intended.