Before dental crowns
After dental crowns
Cracked, broken, and severely damaged teeth don’t only make it harder to eat, they also make you think twice before starting a conversation. How often have you thought, “I hope they don’t notice my teeth.” One of the best ways to give you your peace of mind back is with a dental crown. They have been used for decades as a safe, effective, and reliable way to repair teeth. “That sounds great, but what is a crown?” you wonder. We’re sure you have plenty of questions, so today, Dr. Scott Olson, your dentist in Springfield, is going to answer 6 of your most common questions about dental crowns.
1. What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a type of restoration that simply fits over the top of your tooth, restoring the structure that has been lost due to decay or injury. Crowns can be made of metal, porcelain, or a combination of the two. We usually suggest ceramic crowns because they are the most similar to a natural tooth in both appearance and durability. They can be color matched to the existing shade of your teeth to ensure your crown fits naturally into your smile.
2. What Can a Dental Crown Fix?
Broken and damaged teeth not only affect day to day activities like talking and eating, but they can also change how your jaw fits together. This can lead to conditions such as frequent headaches and jaw pain. Plus, a broken tooth can drastically affect the appearance of your smile, dealing a sizeable blow to your confidence.
Dental crowns can easily address all of these issues, and hold the distinction of being able to help you both medically as well as cosmetically. Dr. Olson uses them frequently because they consistently and successfully help his patients with a variety of issues get their smile back.
3. What Is The Procedure Like?
The first step to any dental procedure is to make an appointment with Dr. Olson. This will give him the chance to examine your teeth and see if a dental crown is the right solution for you. If it is, the procedure involves 3 basic steps:
- Dr. Olson will prepare your tooth’s enamel so it can properly fit the crown.
- He will take an impression of your tooth and send it to a local dental lab to fabricate your crown.
- The final visit is when your crown will be placed onto your tooth.
4. How Long Does It Take?
The entire procedure can usually be completed over the course of two easy visits. While your crown is being made, you will wear a temporary one. Once your tooth has been fully restored, you will be able to trust it just like your other teeth.
5. How Will It Feel After I Get a Crown?
Your tooth may be a little more sensitive during the first week, but that will quickly change as time goes on. Dental crowns can last for decades with routine oral hygiene, so be sure to brush and floss consistently. If you experience any lasting pain with your crown, let us know and we will adjust it as soon as possible.
6. How Can I Get One?
If you think a dental crown could be just what you need to bring your smile back, just give us a call today. We know no matter what condition your tooth may be in, we’ll be able to help you.