Dental Crowns Improve Health, Function, and Appearance
Sometimes tooth decay or dental damage is too extensive to be addressed with fillings alone. In these cases, dental crowns can be used to cover and protect weak or damaged teeth. Crafted from a variety of durable materials such as medical-grade ceramics, crowns are also used to restore dental implants. Drs. Cynthia Bailey and Tess Marie Finley provide advanced dental crown treatment at Bailey Dental Group in Richmond, MI.
When Is a Dental Crown Recommended?
Because dental crowns are so versatile, there are several reasons why your doctor may suggest them for treatment. A crown may be necessary to:
- Restore a badly decayed or broken-down tooth
- Provide support to a weakened tooth
- Hold a dental bridge in place
- Conceal imperfections such as chips, cracks, or discoloration
- Protect a root canal-treated tooth
- Restore a dental implant
Dental Crown Candidacy
Patients who have sustained dental damage of any kind may qualify for a traditional dental crown. However, there must be sufficient natural tooth structure remaining, as the restoration requires proper support. During a consultation at Bailey Dental Group, your dentist can determine if a crown will effectively meet your needs.
If the damage is too extensive, you may be better suited for a dental implant. Our team can discuss all treatment options with you in detail.
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What to Expect during the Procedure
Dental crown placement can typically be completed in two office visits. During the first appointment, your dentist will assess the affected tooth. At our Richmond practice, we use Spectra, an advanced caries detection technology. Scans or x-rays are also taken to determine the extent of damage.
Next, the damaged portion of the tooth is removed, and any rough edges are smoothed. Drs. Bailey and Finley use laser cavity systems instead of traditional drills to preserve more of your natural tooth structure. Many patients report less post-treatment sensitivity, as well. Impressions are then taken and sent to a dental lab for the fabrication of your final crown. In the meantime, a temporary restoration will be placed.
When the lab has crafted your final dental crown, our team will schedule you for your second office visit. Dr. Bailey or Dr. Finley will check the crown to ensure that it fits properly and blends in with your surrounding teeth. If everything is satisfactory, the temporary restoration is removed and the final crown is placed.
Dental Crown Aftercare
On average, dental crowns have a lifespan of five to 15 years. There are several ways patients can prolong the life of their dental crown:
- Brush at least twice every day.
- Floss once daily.
- Choose a nonabrasive toothpaste and use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Use a fluoride mouth rinse twice a day.
- Avoid biting into hard foods or chewing on ice.
- Avoid using teeth to open packages or tear tags off of clothing.
- Attend routine dental examinations and cleanings.
Following these guidelines will help keep your dental crown in optimal condition and keep your smile healthy for many years to come. Ask our Richmond dental team for specific oral hygiene recommendations.
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