Dental crowns are a versatile solution for restoring and protecting teeth that have been weakened, damaged, or discolored. Whether you’re dealing with tooth decay, a cracked tooth, or after a root canal, dental crowns offer a durable and natural-looking way to restore both the function and aesthetics of your smile. At Canyon Gate Dental in Orem, Utah, we specialize in custom dental crowns designed to provide long-lasting results. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of dental crowns and provide tips for their long-term care.

What Is a Dental Crown and How Does It Work?

A dental crown is essentially a “cap” placed over a damaged or weakened tooth. It fully encases the visible part of the tooth above the gum line, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, metal, or a combination of both, depending on the specific needs of your tooth.

Dental crowns are used to:

• Protect weakened teeth from breaking or further damage
• Restore a tooth after a large filling or root canal treatment
• Cover a dental implant
• Improve the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth
• Anchor a dental bridge

1. Benefits of Dental Crowns for Tooth Restoration

Dental crowns provide several key benefits when it comes to restoring and protecting your teeth. Below, we’ll explore some of the top advantages of choosing a crown.

Protection for Weak or Damaged Teeth

One of the primary reasons for getting a dental crown is to protect teeth that are weakened by tooth decay, large fillings, or fractures. A crown acts as a protective shield, encasing the tooth to prevent it from breaking or further deteriorating. This is particularly important for molars that endure significant chewing pressure.

Restores Functionality

Crowns restore the full functionality of your teeth, allowing you to bite and chew normally. This is especially beneficial for patients who have had teeth weakened by decay, trauma, or root canal therapy. Crowns provide strength and stability, ensuring that you can enjoy all your favorite foods without discomfort.

Improves Aesthetics

For patients with discolored, misshapen, or damaged teeth, crowns offer an aesthetic solution. Porcelain crowns, in particular, are designed to mimic the natural appearance of teeth, blending seamlessly with your smile. They can dramatically enhance your appearance and boost your confidence.

Durable and Long-Lasting

When properly cared for, dental crowns can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or longer. Porcelain and zirconia crowns are especially durable, making them an excellent long-term investment in your oral health.

2. How Dental Crowns Protect Against Future Damage

Crowns are not only used to restore teeth that are already damaged, but they also serve as a preventive measure against future issues. Here’s how crowns protect your teeth in the long term:

Prevents Tooth Fractures

A weakened tooth is at risk of cracking or fracturing, especially if it’s located in the back of the mouth where chewing forces are strongest. A crown covers the entire tooth, distributing pressure evenly and reducing the likelihood of fractures.

Prevents Decay

Once a tooth is capped with a crown, it’s sealed off from bacteria that could cause further decay. This is particularly important for teeth that have had large fillings or undergone root canals, as these teeth are more vulnerable to decay without the protection of a crown.

Preserves Natural Tooth Structure

A crown helps preserve the remaining tooth structure by holding it together, preventing further damage. In some cases, getting a crown can avoid the need for an extraction or more extensive dental work.

3. Long-Term Care for Your Dental Crowns

To ensure the longevity of your dental crown, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene and take a few extra precautions to protect your investment. Below are some tips for maintaining your crown and keeping it in excellent condition for years to come.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Although dental crowns are made from durable materials, the tooth underneath is still susceptible to decay. Be sure to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove plaque and bacteria from around the crown.

Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods

While crowns are designed to be strong, chewing on hard foods (such as ice, hard candies, or nuts) can cause them to chip or crack. Additionally, sticky foods like caramel can pull at the crown. It’s best to avoid these foods to protect your crown from damage.

Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings are essential for maintaining your crown. During these visits, your dentist will examine your crown to ensure it’s in good condition and hasn’t become loose or damaged.

Use a Mouthguard if You Grind Your Teeth

If you grind your teeth (a condition known as bruxism), it can put excessive pressure on your crown, causing it to wear down faster. Talk to your dentist about getting a custom mouthguard to protect both your crowns and natural teeth while you sleep.

Why Choose Canyon Gate Dental for Dental Crowns in Orem, Utah?

At Canyon Gate Dental, we provide high-quality, custom-made crowns that restore the function and beauty of your teeth. Our team in Orem, Utah is dedicated to offering personalized care, ensuring that each crown fits comfortably and looks natural. Here’s why patients choose us for their dental crown treatments:

• Advanced Technology: We use the latest dental technology to craft and place crowns with precision.
• Custom Solutions: Each crown is custom-designed to match the shape, color, and size of your natural teeth, giving you a flawless smile.
• Experienced Team: Our skilled dental team has years of experience placing crowns and helping patients restore their oral health.

Conclusion:

Dental crowns offer an effective solution for protecting and restoring damaged teeth. Whether you’re dealing with decay, cracks, or a tooth weakened by a root canal, crowns provide long-term protection and a natural-looking appearance. By following good oral hygiene habits and taking care of your crown, you can enjoy a strong, healthy smile for years to come. At Canyon Gate Dental in Orem, we’re here to help you maintain your crowns and ensure your oral health is in top condition. Reach out to us today to learn more about our dental crown services.