All About Dental Crowns: Types, Benefits, and Care at Beam Dental

Dental crowns are a versatile and widely used dental restoration option for patients seeking to repair damaged teeth or enhance their smile's appearance. These custom-made caps play a significant role in maintaining oral health, functionality, and esthetics. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover the various aspects of dental crowns to offer a clearer understanding of this popular dental restoration.

The team of experienced dental professionals at Beam Dental in Broken Arrow, OK are committed to helping you understand and explore dental crown options tailored to your unique dental needs. Our primary focus at Beam Dental is providing you with comfortable, quality oral health services tailored to your individual preferences and requirements. Allow us to guide you through the dental crown journey and take the first step towards a more confident and functional smile. 

What Are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are custom-made caps designed to fit snugly over the entire visible portion of a tooth. They serve as a protective shield, strengthening the tooth and restoring its natural function, shape, and appearance. Crowns can be crafted from a variety of materials, such as porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these materials, depending on each patient's requirements and preferences.

Dental crowns are a popular option for many dental restoration scenarios, including:

Restoring Damaged Teeth

Strengthening weakened or fractured teeth and preventing further damage or decay.

Supporting Dental Bridges

Serving as anchors (abutments) in dental bridge restorations, holding the artificial tooth (pontic) in place.

Covering Dental Implants

Functioning as a final, natural-looking restoration atop dental implant posts that replace missing teeth.

Cosmetic Enhancements

Covering up discolored or poorly shaped teeth to improve a patient's smile esthetics.

The Dental Crown Procedure

The dental crown process typically occurs over two dental visits spaced a few weeks apart and involves the following steps:

1. Consultation and Evaluation – During your initial consultation, the dental professional will assess your tooth condition and determine whether a dental crown is the appropriate treatment. Your dentist may recommend an alternative restoration if your tooth's root is not strong enough to support a crown.

2. Tooth Preparation – The dentist will remove a small amount of tooth structure to accommodate the crown's thickness and shape. If required, additional dental procedures like a root canal treatment or placing a post may be performed before reshaping the tooth.

3. Impression and Temporary Crown – After reshaping the tooth, the dentist will take an impression of the tooth and surrounding teeth, which will be used to custom-make the dental crown at a dental laboratory. Meanwhile, a temporary crown will be placed to protect the prepared tooth until the permanent crown is ready.

4. Crown Placement – During the second dental visit, the temporary crown will be removed, and the dentist will place the custom-made permanent crown on the tooth, adjusting the fit before cementing it into place with dental adhesive.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns offer various advantages to patients seeking to revitalize their oral health and improve the functionality and appearance of their teeth. Some of the key benefits include:

1. Durability – Dental crowns are made from strong materials that can withstand daily oral functions such as chewing and biting. With proper care, dental crowns can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years.

2. Aesthetics – Porcelain and ceramic crowns are specifically designed to mimic the appearance of natural teeth, making them an attractive option for patients seeking a seamless smile enhancement.

3. Protection – Dental crowns offer a protective shield to vulnerable, damaged teeth, decreasing the risk of further decay or fracture.

4. Comfort – Unlike removable dental appliances, dental crowns are permanently bonded to the tooth, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit that feels natural.

Proper Care and Maintenance for Dental Crowns

Dental crowns, with proper care and maintenance, can offer long-lasting durability and functionality. To ensure the optimal longevity of your dental crown, follow these care recommendations:

1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene – Continue with a consistent oral healthcare routine, including brushing your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once a day. Incorporate an antimicrobial mouthwash to further help protect your teeth and gums.

2. Avoid Hard Foods or Ice – Chewing on hard foods or ice can cause damage to your dental crown, leading to cracks or chips. Exercise caution when eating and avoid unnecessary pressure on your crown.

3. Wear a Mouthguard – If you participate in contact sports or suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding), consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your dental crown and prevent unnecessary wear or damage.

4. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups – Regular dental visits will enable your dentist to monitor the condition and fit of your dental crown, ensuring timely replacement or adjustments when necessary.

Enhance Your Smile with Dental Crowns at Beam Dental

Dental crowns are a versatile and effective means of restoring and enhancing your smile, offering both functional and esthetic benefits. At Beam Dental in Broken Arrow, OK, our experienced dental professionals are committed to helping you explore your dental restoration options and determine whether a dental crown is the right choice for your unique needs.

Embark on your journey towards a healthier and more confident smile with Beam Dental. Our priority is to provide you with comfortable, quality crowns and bridges in Broken Arrow that meet your individual goals and preferences. Contact Beam Dental today to schedule an appointment and discuss your dental restoration options!