A dental crown is an excellent choice for restoring a tooth compromised by decay, fractures, or an infection. The crown covers the tooth completely, like a cap, restoring its form, aesthetics, and function while protecting the integrity of the root.
Today, we'll discuss everything you need to know about dental crowns in Winston-Salem, from why you would need one to what to expect when you get one. Let's get started!
When Do We Recommend Dental Crowns?
Dr. Tibbs may suggest a tooth crown for these situations:
- Rebuild a tooth that's had root canal treatment
- Replace a large, broken filling
- Cover a tooth with cosmetic flaws
- Strengthen a tooth that's cracked, decayed, or damaged
- Restore a single-tooth implant
Dental crowns also act as anchors for dental bridges that replace one or more missing teeth. Two dental crowns will attach to healthy teeth and support one or multiple prosthetic teeth in between.
The Process of Assessing the Need for Dental Crowns
If you're living with a compromised tooth, it can become difficult or uncomfortable to chew and enjoy your food. A compromised tooth may also diminish the appearance of your smile.
The first step in determining the best materials and treatments for your smile is by booking an evaluation with Dr. Tibbs, which will allow him to assess your situation. He'll gather information about your smile during your evaluation with x-rays and an exam.
You'll leave the assessment with a clear understanding of your treatment needs, time frames for finishing your procedure, and cost so you can make an educated decision on the right treatment for your smile.
Materials and Options for Dental Crowns
There are a few options to consider when choosing a dental crown for your smile. Ceramic porcelain is recommended for teeth in the sight line that you see when you smile, talk, or laugh.
Porcelain crowns are aesthetically pleasing because Dr. Tibbs can customize them to match your teeth and blend beautifully with your smile. They are also durable and last 10 to 15 years with the proper home care and regular dental checkups.
Gold crowns are an excellent option for molars in the back of the mouth that aren't visible in the sight line but take the brunt of the chewing forces. Gold is one of the most durable materials available.
Dr. Tibbs will discuss your options and recommend suitable materials for you when it's time to select the type of crown that's best for your smile.
Understanding Dental Crown Placement
Completing a tooth crown is straightforward and typically requires two appointments with Dr. Tibbs.
During your first visit, he'll take impressions of your tooth, prepare it for restoration, and create a temporary crown for you to wear. The impressions are sent to a trusted dental lab to handcraft your new tooth. This process takes about two to three weeks.
When your new crown is ready, you'll return to your Winston-Salem dentist to have it permanently placed. Dr. Tibbs will make any needed adjustments to ensure your bite functions correctly. After that, you'll be able to enjoy your new tooth!
Post-Crown Placement Care and Considerations
One of the things patients love about dental crowns is how easy they are to take care of!
Since your crown closely mimics your natural tooth, you can brush and floss normally without changing your home care routine. Brushing twice daily and flossing once daily will help ensure your crown stays healthy and bacteria-free. Consider using an electric toothbrush to remove the guesswork from tooth brushing.
Routine visits with your Winston-Salem dentist will protect your smile and dental restorations. Dr. Tibbs can identify problem areas early on so you can effectively treat them with more accessible and less costly procedures. Regularly visiting your dentist every six months for routine teeth cleanings and checkups protect your smile and dental health.
There are some foods to be aware of to help protect your crown. Sticky or chewy foods might pull your crown off, while hard foods could crack or damage it. Cut foods like raw carrots or apples into small bite-sized pieces to avoid damaging your natural teeth and restorations.
Would You Like to Learn More about Tooth Crowns in Winston-Salem?
If you're struggling with a decayed, broken, or compromised tooth, contact our team at (336) 765-7477 to book an evaluation with Dr. Tibbs. He'll talk with you about your smile goals and perform a thorough exam to help you determine the best treatment for your smile.