Are you looking for dental crown treatment? Dental crowns are dental prosthetics used to improve the size, shape, and strength of a dental structure. In some cases, dental crowns can also be used to enhance the aesthetics of your smile by covering discolored teeth or replacing an old dental restoration. If you’re considering dental crown treatment in Oak Forest, IL, you have come to the right place.
In this blog post, we will discuss why dental crowns are prescribed, what they are made of, and how long they last. We’ll also share some tips on how to choose a dentist for dental crown treatment in Oak Forest, IL.
Benefits for dental crown treatment
To Restore a Damaged Tooth
One of the main reasons dental crowns are prescribed is to restore a damaged tooth. A dental crown can be used to strengthen a decayed or weakened tooth, fill in gaps between teeth, or replace an existing dental restoration that has worn down. The dental crown will encase the affected tooth, protecting it from further damage and restoring its original shape and size.
To Improve Aesthetics
Another common reason dental crowns are prescribed is to enhance the aesthetics of your smile. Dental crowns can cover discolored teeth and make them appear brighter and more uniform with the rest of your smile. They can also be used to replace dental restorations that have worn down over time or become discolored. By replacing aging dental work, dental crowns help keep your smile looking its best.
To Support Structurally Weak Teeth
In some cases, dental crowns may be prescribed to support structurally weak teeth. This is especially important if the affected tooth has undergone root canal therapy and cannot support a dental filling or dental bridge on its own. By encasing the tooth with dental crown, it can provide additional structural stability and prevent further damage down the line.
What dental crowns are made of
Metal Alloys
Dental crowns can be made from a variety of materials, depending on your dental needs and budget. Metal alloy dental crowns are one of the most popular options, as they offer excellent durability while also being relatively affordable. Common metal alloys used in dental crowns include gold, palladium, nickel-chromium alloys, and cobalt-chrome alloys.
Porcelain Fused to Metal
Porcelain fused to metal dental crowns combine the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain. They are very durable and can last up to 15 years with proper care and maintenance. The only downside is that these dental crowns can be more visible than metal-only dental crowns, as the metal base may show through the porcelain in certain cases.
All Ceramic or Zirconia
All ceramic or zirconia dental crowns are a great choice if you’re looking for dental crowns that offer both strength and aesthetics. These dental crowns are made from high-quality materials that closely resemble natural teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable from the rest of your smile. The downside is that these dental crowns tend to be more expensive than other dental crown materials.
How long do dental crowns last?
Proper Care and Maintenance
The lifespan of dental crowns is largely determined by how well they are cared for. Good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day and flossing daily, can help dental crowns last up to 15 years or more with proper care. Additionally, dental crowns should be regularly inspected by a dentist to make sure they are still in good condition.
Avoiding Certain Habits
Certain habits can also put dental crowns at risk of premature failure or damage. Things like chewing on hard foods, grinding your teeth, and using your teeth to open packaging should be avoided. Additionally, dental crowns are not designed to withstand the same levels of force as natural teeth, so biting down on hard objects may cause them to crack or chip.
Regular Checkups
Even with proper care and maintenance, dental crowns may still need to be replaced at some point. To ensure dental crowns last as long as possible, it’s important to visit your dentist in Oak Forest for regular checkups. During these visits, your dentist can inspect dental crowns and make sure they are still functioning properly.
The Bottom Line
Dental crowns offer many benefits when it comes to dental health and aesthetics. They can be used to replace dental restorations that have worn down over time, cover dental implants, or support structurally weak teeth. Dental crowns are available in a variety of materials, including metal alloys, porcelain fused to metal, and all ceramic or zirconia options.
With proper care and maintenance, dental crowns can last up to 15 years or more. Regular dental checkups will help ensure dental crowns remain in good condition and make sure they offer the best possible results for your dental health needs.