8740 N. Thornydale Rd., #100, Tucson, AZ 85742
520-744-7388Bothered by a chipped tooth? Let our dentist and team take care of it with a new dental crown. They work to restrengthen your tooth for you to get back to a healthy smile. Call us today at 520-744-7388 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jesse Engle here at Presidio Dental and learn more about dental crowns in Tucson, Arizona.
A dental crown, also known as a dental cap, is a versatile dental restoration that serves a multitude of purposes, contributing to both oral health and aesthetic improvements. These custom-made dental prosthetics are designed to fit snugly over a tooth, starting from the gumline, effectively restoring its original shape and size. Dental crowns come in various materials, such as gold, porcelain or porcelain fused to metal, with porcelain crowns being a popular choice due to their ability to seamlessly match the natural color and appearance of your teeth.
One of the primary purposes of dental crowns is to restore teeth that have experienced significant damage or decay. When a dental filling is insufficient to provide a successful restoration, a dental crown can step in to safeguard and reinforce the compromised tooth, preventing further deterioration and preserving your smile’s integrity.
However, the utility of dental crowns extends beyond mere restorative purposes. They are also used to:
- Protect a tooth post-root canal treatment: Following root canal therapy, a dental crown is often placed to shield the tooth from potential damage and ensure its longevity.
- Anchor and attach a dental bridge: Dental crowns play a vital role in supporting and stabilizing dental bridges, bridging the gap left by missing teeth.
- Complete a dental implant: A crown is the finishing touch for a dental implant, providing a natural-looking and functional replacement for a missing tooth.
- Enhance smile aesthetics: Dental crowns can be employed to improve the appearance of a smile by concealing misshapen or discolored teeth, helping you achieve the radiant smile you desire.
- Strengthen weakened teeth: When a tooth is fractured or weakened, a crown can provide the necessary reinforcement to prevent further damage.
- Support large fillings: In cases where minimal natural tooth structure remains, a dental crown can support and secure a large filling, ensuring its stability and durability.
If you are wondering whether a dental crown is the right solution for your dental needs, we invite you to reach out to us today. Our experienced dentist will assess your unique situation and guide you toward the most appropriate treatment plan to restore your smile and oral health.
FAQs
What are dental crowns, and why might I need one?
Dental crowns are custom-made caps that cover and protect a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth. They restore the tooth’s shape, size, and functionality while improving its appearance. Dr. Engle might recommend a crown after a root canal, for a large cavity, or to strengthen a cracked or worn-down tooth.
What materials are used for dental crowns?
Dental crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are popular for their natural appearance and color-matching capability, making them ideal for front teeth. Metal crowns are more durable and often used for molars, which endure heavy chewing forces.
What is the process for getting a dental crown?
The process usually takes two appointments. At the first visit, our dentist will prepare the tooth by removing decay or old fillings and reshaping it to fit the crown. Impressions are taken to create a custom crown, and a temporary one is placed to protect your tooth until the final crown is ready. At the second visit, the permanent crown is cemented into place.
How long do dental crowns last?
With proper care, dental crowns can last 10 to 15 years or longer. Longevity depends on factors like oral hygiene, avoiding habits such as grinding teeth, and regular dental checkups. Routine brushing and flossing are crucial for preventing decay around the crown and ensuring its durability over time.