A healthy and beautiful smile is more than just a confidence booster—it can be the key to preserving your youth and well-being. When you feel good about yourself, you naturally smile more, and there’s science to back it up. Studies show that those who smile often live longer, healthier, and happier lives. 

This article will explore how dental crowns can enhance your smile’s beauty and oral health.

What are dental crowns?

Dental crowns are like little superheroes for your teeth, ready to save the day by rejuvenating your smile. These tooth-shaped covers play a critical role in restoring teeth that have suffered from decay, fractures, weakened structure, or extensive wear and tear. 

Dentists also rely on dental crowns to complete dental implants and safeguard teeth that have undergone root canal procedures. Due to their versatility and effectiveness, dental crowns are a commonly favored restoration choice in dentistry.

How to know if you or your child needs a dental crown?

Understanding when a dental crown is necessary can help you make informed decisions about your child’s oral health. Here are key indicators to consider.

• Significant tooth damage: If you or your child has a tooth severely damaged by decay or trauma, a dental crown may be necessary to restore its strength and appearance.
• Root canal treatment: Teeth undergoing root canal therapy often require crowns to protect their weakened structure and prevent further issues.
• Fractured or weakened teeth: Teeth that are fractured or weakened for various reasons can benefit from the added support and protection dental crowns offer.
• Worn-down teeth: Excessive wear and tear on teeth can lead to diminished functionality and aesthetics. Dental crowns can rebuild and reinforce these worn-down teeth.

Crowns come in various materials, including metal, resin, and porcelain, each with advantages. Dental crowns can last five to 15 years with proper care, ensuring your smile remains radiant and functional. Monroe Family Dentistry offers two types of dental crowns: lab-created zirconia crowns and e.max crowns.

Lab-created Zirconia Crowns

Among the crown options offered by Monroe Family Dentistry, lab-created zirconia crowns are gaining popularity. Zirconia crowns are celebrated for their remarkable strength and durability. Think about the powerful forces your back teeth exert while chewing food; zirconia can easily handle it.

Moreover, zirconia is known for its biocompatibility, meaning it’s less likely to trigger adverse reactions or inflammation. With regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene practices, zirconia crowns can make your smile dazzle for 15 to 20 years.

E.max Crowns

E.max crowns are another fantastic option for aesthetically pleasing smile transformation. These crowns are crafted from lithium disilicate glass, an all-ceramic system that offers exceptional translucency and a natural appearance. Porcelain can be layered onto e.max crowns, creating a tooth that seamlessly blends with your other natural teeth.

While e.max crowns have been known to develop fractures in 10 to 15 years, their longevity largely depends on how they are cared for. Regular dental maintenance and proper oral care can extend the life of your e.max crowns, ensuring your smile remains captivating for years to come.

Choosing the right type of crown depends on your unique needs and preferences, and Monroe Family Dentistry is here to help you make the best choice for your smile’s crowning glory.

The benefits of dental crowns. 

As we suggested earlier, dental crowns are like the unsung heroes of oral health and aesthetics. They offer many advantages, from maintaining proper tooth alignment to boosting your confidence with a beaming smile. Let’s look at some of the benefits of dental crowns a bit further.

1. Replace missing teeth and maintain proper alignment.

When a tooth goes missing, it can disrupt the harmony of your dental arch, causing neighboring teeth to drift and tilt. Dental crowns help fill these gaps, keeping your other teeth aligned and preventing potential issues down the road. Plus, a complete smile boosts your confidence, allowing you to share your full, radiant grin with the world.

2. Repair broken or damaged teeth to facilitate normal eating.

A damaged or broken tooth can challenge simple tasks like chewing your favorite foods. Dental crowns act as protective shields, restoring your tooth’s strength and functionality. With a crown in place, you can enjoy your meals without worries, just like before.

3. Cover discolored teeth for a whiter smile.

Stubborn tooth discoloration can be disheartening, especially when teeth whitening treatments yield minimal results. Dental crowns come to the rescue by covering discolored teeth, giving you a brighter and more uniform smile sooner than you thought possible.

4. Create a natural-looking appearance.

Modern crown materials are designed to mimic the natural look of teeth. Whether you choose zirconia or e.max crowns, they blend seamlessly with your existing teeth. You can smile confidently, knowing that your crowns are virtually invisible to the naked eye.

5. Lessen the risk of tooth decay.

Dental crowns protect damaged teeth and provide an added layer of defense against future decay. By sealing the tooth’s surface, crowns reduce the risk of harmful bacteria infiltrating and causing cavities. This proactive approach to oral health can save you from potential pain and dental procedures down the line.

How does the dental crown process work?

Getting a dental crown is a step-by-step journey toward a healthier, more radiant smile. Here’s an overview of the process:

• Examining the damaged tooth: It all begins with a thorough dental evaluation by your trusted dentist in Greenville, South Carolina. We will assess the extent of the damage and determine if a dental crown is the right solution for you.
• Preparing the affected tooth: Next, your dentist prepares the damaged tooth by removing any decay or weakened areas. This step ensures a solid foundation for the crown.
• Taking a dental impression: Your dentist takes a precise impression of your tooth, capturing its shape and size. This impression serves as a blueprint for crafting your custom dental crown.
• Constructing a custom dental crown: Our skilled technicians use the impression to create a custom-made dental crown tailored to fit your unique smile perfectly.
• Securing the cover over the tooth: Once your crown is ready, your dentist will carefully seat it over the prepared tooth, ensuring a snug fit. The crown is securely bonded, restoring your tooth’s function and appearance.

Timeline and Aftercare 

The entire dental crown procedure typically spans over a few weeks, including the fabrication of the crown. Afterward, you may experience mild sensitivity, but this should subside within a few days. Practicing good oral hygiene at home and visiting the dentist for regular dental checkups are crucial to ensure the longevity of your crown.

The importance of fixing dental issues with a crown.

Addressing dental problems is essential. Ignoring decay or damage can lead to more extensive issues, potentially requiring more invasive treatments. You preserve your oral health and prevent future complications by opting for timely intervention. 

Consider dental crowns to protect your teeth from further tooth decay. 

Dental crowns play a pivotal role in restorative dentistry. They are invaluable for preserving and enhancing your smile’s health and beauty. Whether you’re dealing with damaged teeth, discoloration, or alignment issues, dental crowns offer a reliable solution. 
So, when pondering, “are dental crowns worth it?”, the answer often lies in the long-lasting benefits they provide. Consult your dentist to explore how dental crowns can transform your smile and improve your oral health. Don’t hesitate to take the first step toward a more confident and vibrant smile today!