A damaged or weakened tooth does not always need to be removed. In many cases, a dental crown can help protect the tooth, restore its shape, and improve the way it looks and functions. If you have a cracked tooth, a large filling, severe wear, or a tooth that has been treated with a root canal, a crown may be recommended to give that tooth added strength.
At Uptown Dental Group in Whittier, patients can learn whether a dental crown is the right option for their smile. Crowns are commonly used in both restorative and cosmetic dentistry because they can protect the natural tooth while also improving appearance.
A dental crown is a custom-made covering that fits over a tooth. It is designed to restore the tooth’s size, shape, strength, and appearance. Once placed, the crown covers the visible portion of the tooth above the gumline.
Crowns can be made from different materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of materials. For visible teeth, many patients prefer tooth-colored crowns because they can be designed to blend with the surrounding smile.
Dental crowns are often recommended when a tooth is too damaged for a simple filling but still healthy enough to save. A crown may be used to protect a cracked or broken tooth, restore a tooth with a large cavity, strengthen a tooth after root canal treatment, or cover a worn-down tooth.
Crowns may also be used for cosmetic reasons, especially when a tooth is misshapen, discolored, or noticeably different from the teeth around it. In dental implant treatment, a crown is often attached to the implant to replace the visible part of a missing tooth.
The goal is to protect the tooth while allowing you to bite, chew, and smile more comfortably.
Getting a dental crown usually begins with an exam. Your dentist will check the tooth, take any needed X-rays, and determine whether a crown is the best option. If the tooth can be restored with a crown, it is prepared so the crown can fit properly.
An impression or digital scan may be taken to create a custom crown. In many cases, a temporary crown is placed while the final crown is being made. Once the final crown is ready, it is adjusted for fit and bite before being cemented into place.
A crown protects the tooth underneath, but it still needs regular care. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and keeping up with dental cleanings can help protect the crown, the gumline, and the surrounding teeth.
It is also important to avoid habits that can damage crowns, such as chewing ice, biting fingernails, or using your teeth to open packaging. With good care, a dental crown can be a long-lasting part of a healthy smile.
If you are looking for dental crowns in Whittier, CA, Uptown Dental Group can help you understand your options. Whether you have a damaged tooth, an older crown that needs attention, or a cosmetic concern, a dental visit can help determine the best next step.
Contact Uptown Dental Group today to schedule an appointment and learn how a dental crown may help protect and restore your smile.
