When you have chipped, cracked, or broken teeth, the damage can be repaired using a dental crown or tooth cap. In some minor cases of tooth damage, fillings can be used as the preferred restorative treatment. Although fillings are cheaper, there are not as strong as dental crowns unless the damage is minimal and located in your front teeth. Otherwise, crowns are the preferred option.
Dental fillings draw their strength from the tooth. A larger filling would mean that the tooth is severely damaged and weakened, which increases the risk of the filling or tooth breaking. A well-placed filling should last between 5 and 15 years depending on the material used, with metals offering the greatest durability. Crowns should last a lifetime with proper dental care.
Crowns can be successfully used to treat various dental problems, including:
- Decay – that has affected more than half the tooth, such that a filling cannot be used
- To strengthen the tooth structure following root canal therapy
- Broken or fractured teeth
- To replace large fillings
- To fix chips and cracks
- To close small gaps between teeth
- To support dental bridges when replacing missing teeth
How the Procedure is Done
Most people are good candidates for tooth crowns, which makes them one of the most popular dental restoration procedures for people of all ages. Tooth caps can also be recommended as a cosmetic procedure to improve the appearance of damaged teeth.
During your initial consultation, the dentist will examine your teeth to determine if you are a good candidate for dental crowns. The treatments starts by numbing the damaged tooth and surrounding gum tissue. Then, depending on the type of damage, any decay will be removed and the site thoroughly cleaned and disinfected in preparation for placing the filling material in the cavity. The dentist will also take digital impressions that will be used to create your custom crown in a dental lab, making sure to match the color of your crown to that of your teeth, or use a different shade if you wish to improve the appearance of your teeth and smile.
On your next visit, the custom crown will be placed so it “caps” the entire damaged or decayed area of the tooth. This produces a permanent, long-lasting restoration that looks and functions like your natural teeth.
Contact Your Dentist Today
Please contact your dentist in Studio City today to learn more about dental crowns and other dental restorative options that can work for you.
