A damaged tooth can be a serious dental problem, especially when it is cracked or chipped severely enough that it exposes the root. No matter what kind of damage your tooth has suffered, even if your dentist has done a root canal, you need to be prepared for the subsequent steps as well. If your dentist is suggesting that you have a crown put in place, you may be hesitant. Before you make the decision, there are some things that you need to know. Here are some of the basics about dental crowns that you should understand before you decide whether or not to have the procedure.
Dental Crowns Strengthen The Tooth
Any time a tooth is structurally damaged, whether from a fracture or decay, it weakens the tooth. You won't be able to bite down with that tooth safely, and it may cause you significant pain. This is particularly true when the pulp and root of the tooth are exposed. This can leave you unable to chew on that side of your mouth due to the damage that it has suffered and the pain that results.
When a dental crown is placed over the tooth, it covers the damaged area. This protects the tooth from any further damage that may occur later. The crown helps to preserve the tooth in the condition it's in. That way, it doesn't continue to fall apart. In addition, the crown's placement will protect against the pain, sensitivity, and vulnerability that you've struggled with while chewing on that side.
Dental Crowns Prevent Infection
When your tooth is damaged and the pulp exposed, it puts you at increased risk of infections and abscess. These can be severely painful. In fact, it can reach a point where even brushing a damaged tooth is painful. When a dental crown is placed, it covers the tooth. It is sealed in place, which prevents any bacterial contamination that can cause an infection. This protects you from pain and infection, which is important. Remember that a dental infection, if not treated rapidly, can become systemic and make you very ill.
Dental Crowns Provide Cosmetic Improvement
In many cases, a broken or chipped tooth can cause you to feel self-conscious, hindering your ability to smile, or even speak, without hesitation. The placement of a dental crown will cover that flaw and restore your smile and your confidence.
The same holds true for a stained tooth or one that has not grown in properly. The crown can be placed over the problematic tooth, creating a properly shaped, uniform, consistent smile that can make you feel better about yourself personally.
Dental Crowns Are Easy To Put On
With so many people apprehensive about dental procedures, it's common for people to hesitate about a dental crown placement because of fear. The good news is that placing a dental crown is not a complex procedure. It doesn't require any kind of oral surgery or extensive work. The tooth will just be cleaned and filed, then the crown will be secured in place with a dental cement product. There is little in the way of physical recovery at all. The only recovery is the couple of days of waiting for the dental cement to secure the crown.
Dental Crowns Are Easy To Clean
You might worry that a dental crown requires some kind of special cleaning. This couldn't be further from the truth. Dental crowns can easily be cleaned with the same dental care routine that you use for your natural teeth. Toothpaste, mouthwash, and floss can all be used. Get in touch with your dental care provider, such as AQ Denture and Dental Implant Center, about any other care information if you are unsure about how to handle your newly placed crown.
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