With proper care, teeth can last a lifetime. If one or more teeth are compromised by damage or decay, they can be repaired with dental crowns. Crowns are tooth-shaped restorations that fit over compromised teeth to provide protection and support. By crowning a vulnerable tooth, you can restore its function, usefulness, and appearance. These FAQs from Dr. Khaja Mohsinuddin and our team at Total Health Dental in Aurora, Illinois, provide more information about crowns and their use.
What’s the main purpose of dental crowns?
Crowns are used mainly as a restorative treatment to restore a tooth’s functionality. In the process, they also improve a tooth’s appearance. Dr. Mohsinuddin may recommend getting a crown to:
- repair damaged teeth after dental trauma
- support a tooth with a large filling
- strengthen a fragile or worn tooth to keep it from splintering
- fortify a tooth that’s had root canal treatment
- anchor a dental bridge
- function as a replacement tooth for a dental implant
Crowning a vulnerable tooth fortifies its structure so you can continue using it for biting and chewing. Crowns can extend your tooth’s lifespan or, in cases of severe damage or decay, a crown can save your tooth from extraction.
Real Patients, Real Results
DR. KHAJA MOHSINUDDIN – Before and After Images of Patients
What are crowns made of?
Crowns can be made of different materials. Some common types are composite resin crowns, metal crowns, all-porcelain and all-ceramic crowns, and porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns.
What is the dental crown process?
Dental crown treatment starts with an evaluation to see if your tooth warrants a crown. If so, we’ll check for signs of decay and treat that first before placing the crown. Next, we’ll reshape your tooth to prepare it for crown treatment. If a large part of your tooth is missing, we’ll need to rebuild its structure with resin material to support the crown. Once your tooth is prepared, we’ll make impressions of your teeth and create a mold to send to a lab for your crown to be fabricated. Crowns generally take two weeks to complete. In the meantime, we can fit you with a temporary crown if needed. Once your crown is ready, we’ll remove the temporary crown, fit the permanent one over your tooth and cement it in place to complete your treatment.
How long do crowns last?
Porcelain crowns and porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns can last between 10 and 15 years. Metal crowns can last even longer. Longevity is one of the main benefits of this treatment.
How do I care for a crown?
You care for your crown much the same way you care for your natural teeth: diligent brushing and flossing and seeing your dentist for routine dental cleanings. You should also avoid hard and sticky foods, chewing on ice, and using your teeth like tools.
Where can I go for dental crown treatment?
Contact Total Health Dental in Aurora, IL, at (630) 822-9600 for quality dental crowns near me.
