Dental Crowns Can Restore Your Smile

Portrait of cheerful man with beard laughing against blue background

If you have fractured or chipped a tooth due to an accident, you should have the area examined by your dentist as soon as possible. This type of damage can be painful and can potentially cause further harm to your smile. To protect the area and bring it back to health, the team at Allen and Neumann Family Dentistry in Pella, IA, can place a crown over the area.

Avoiding A Damaged Tooth

While not all accidents can be prevented, there are some ways to protect your pearly whites. Sometimes, chips or fractures can happen if your enamel has been weakened over time. This may happen if you clench your jaw often, which could be a side effect of TMJ disorder. When you clench your teeth together, they can grind against each other, causing wear and tear over time. At your next checkup, you can talk to your dentist about your concerns. This can help diagnose you with TMJ and create a helpful treatment plan.

Why Crowns Are Used

Essentially, a dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap used to cover the injured area. They may be used to repair a fractured tooth, restrengthen the area after root canal treatment, before a bridge is placed, and in other scenarios. The material used for the cap will depend on the type of damage and the area in which it will be placed. For visible teeth, porcelain or zirconia will be used to create the cap. These materials can be made to match the shade of your smile so that it has a natural appearance. If the crown will be placed on your back molars, a stronger material may be used. This is because the material will need to withstand pressure from chewing.

Caring For Your Crown

Dental crowns are made to be durable and can last for several years with proper care. Before receiving this restoration, your dentist will examine the area and make an impression. Measurements will be sent to a lab to have it created. A temporary piece may be installed for the time being. When the permanent one is ready, it will be bonded in place. Immediately after having the cap placed, the area may be sensitive. This is normal and should go away within a few days.

You can brush and floss your restoration as normal. If you have TMJ, you may still need to wear your oral appliance to protect the area from damage. Lastly, remember to continue seeing your dentist every six months. A cap is meant to restore your tooth, but it will not prevent cavities or gum disease from forming.