Dental Crowns in Holmdel, NJ: When Does Dimension Dental Care Recommend One?

Dental crowns are a type of dental restoration used on teeth that are too weak on their own to withstand the daily forces of chewing. Some people may feel concerned when told they require dental work. However, getting a crown is very simple and highly effective in correcting problems with the strength, size, and shape of the tooth, restoring some degree of function (chewing or biting), and providing cosmetic benefits. Using a crown will maintain the appearance of your real teeth. 

In this blog article, we’ll discuss what to expect during the course of treatment when having a crown placed on one of your teeth, as well as when you should consider getting one.

What Exactly Is a Dental Crown?

A crown is a custom-made cap that completely fits over your natural tooth. While a filling will fill in some of the tooth’s missing structure (the cavity), a crown is used to replace the entire portion of the tooth above the gum line. Dental crowns provide added strength, stability, and protection for the tooth from further fractures.

Modern crowns are typically made of porcelain or ceramic. Porcelain and ceramic particles are both robust and durable, which gives the tooth added strength to resist biting or chewing forces. Both types of crowns can be designed to match the colour of your surrounding teeth for a natural-looking appearance and improved health.

When Is a Crown Necessary?

Dentists suggest crowns when a tooth is too damaged for a simple repair. Saving your natural tooth is always the best goal for your long-term health.

If you are searching for dental crowns in Holmdel NJ, it is essential to understand that dental crowns serve to prevent more severe issues, such as infections or tooth loss.

 Primary Reasons for Getting a Dental Crown

Several common factors lead a cosmetic dentist to recommend a crown rather than a filling.

• Large Cavities: If a cavity takes up more than half of the tooth, a filling may not stay in place. A crown covers the entire tooth to protect it.
• Broken or cracked tooth: A broken tooth (due to a crack) can be very painful and also provide a route for bacteria to enter the damaged tooth. A dental crown maintains the tooth’s integrity and provides added protection.
• Following a Root Canal: After a root canal, your tooth may become weak and be at increased risk of breaking during everyday activities. A dental crown protects your tooth from breaking.
• Worn-down teeth: Tooth grinding can shorten and flatten the height of your teeth. Dental crowns in Holmdel, NJ, can restore your teeth to their original height.
• Severe Stains: If a tooth is very discolored and whitening does not work, a crown can make it look bright and new again.

The Step-by-Step Process: What to Expect

It usually takes two visits to get a crown. Here’s how it’s done:

• Preparation: The dentist will administer an anesthetic so that you do not feel any pain. The dentist will then prepare the tooth so that the crown fits over it ideally.
• The Mold: We digitally scan or take a mold of your tooth. This is sent to a lab where your crown is created.
• Temporary Crown: A temporary crown would also be provided for you to wear for 2 weeks while the permanent crown is being made.
• The Final Fit: During your second visit, the cosmetic dentist will remove the temporary crown and bond the permanent crown to your tooth. They will ensure your bite is just perfect.

Why Saving Your Tooth Matters

It’s almost always preferable to save a tooth with a crown instead of extracting it. There are a multitude of advantages that come with retaining your own tooth:

• It maintains the rest of your teeth in place.
• It helps you chew all the foods you like correctly.
• It preserves the strength of your jawbone.
• It often costs less and is easier than getting a fake tooth (like an implant) later on.

Simple Tips to Care for Your Crown

Taking care of dental crowns in Holmdel, NJ, is just like caring for natural teeth. There is no need to use special equipment to care for it.

• Brushing twice a day using a soft toothbrush.
• Floss daily to remove food particles from the crown’s rim.
• Avoid chewing hard objects, such as ice or pens.
• Visit your cosmetic dentist twice yearly for a routine examination and cleaning.

A Healthier Smile Starts with Prevention

Even with a damaged tooth, you can avoid pain and costly visits in the long run by seeking dental care today. A crown is an effective way to ensure you retain a strong, healthy smile in the years ahead. As Dimension Dental Care professionals, we aim to care for you with compassion and understanding to maintain healthy, beautiful teeth.

Schedule Your Visit Today

Got a tooth that aches or looks damaged? At Dimension Dental Care, we’re here to help you find the best dental solution for your smile. Call today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how Dimension Dental can help you.

FAQs

1. Is there any pain involved with getting a dental crown? 

There will likely be some discomfort during your crown procedure, but it should not be severe. The dentist will use anesthesia so the tooth is numb. You will feel pressure in your tooth, but not pain. The gum area around your tooth may feel slightly tender for about 24 hours after the procedure.

2. What is the average lifespan of a dental crown? 

A dental crown typically lasts 10-15 years, depending on how well the patient cares for their teeth. If the patient is diligent about maintaining proper oral hygiene, the crown’s lifespan could be even longer.

3. Will anyone know I have a dental crown? 

Modern dental crowns are designed to closely match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth. As a result, they look very similar, and most people won’t know you have one unless you tell them. 

4. Can I still get a cavity on a crowned tooth? 

The actual dental crown (the part that holds your tooth together) will not decay. However, because the underlying tooth can still develop cavities at the gum line, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene (brushing and flossing). 

5. How are crowns different than bridges? 

A dental crown is used when there is only one damaged tooth, while a bridge replaces a missing tooth by using the two adjacent (neighboring) teeth for support.

6: Is it okay to eat normally while wearing a crown? 

Yes, once your dentist cements the crown onto the tooth, you can eat almost anything you like. But you should be more careful when eating sticky foods.