Restorative Dentistry Services
Crowns and bridges may be necessary together or separately, depending upon the patient’s need. Crowns can serve several purposes and one of those is in conjunction with bridges.
Crowns may be used in the case of a weakened, broken, or cracked tooth. In these cases, a filling is not enough to repair the damage from decay or breakage. Teeth that are severely worn down may also require a crown to return them to optimal function. Crowns may support filled teeth with little of the original tooth left. Esthetically, crowns can cover issues with teeth that are not pleasing in appearance or may require slight shape modification. And, as mentioned, crowns are used in conjunction with dental bridges. In the case of a tooth with a large break or crack, or with extensive decay, a dentist may choose to use a crown to restore the tooth. The tooth that remains after filing away the decay or broken area is then covered with a crown made of metal or tooth-colored porcelain. Some teeth experience wearing due to grinding. Crowns applied to the worn down teeth can restore these teeth to full function, repair bite irregularities, and improve the overall look of a smile. Teeth with large fillings may not be well supported. A crown can cover the remaining tooth and filling if there is no damage or infection in the nerve. Some patients have discolored or irregularly shaped teeth. Crowns can correct these problems without further costly and ongoing treatments.
When your dentist recommends a crown, there will likely be two visits involved. At the first visit, the dentist will take x-rays to ensure the health of the tooth and the bone surrounding the tooth. The dentist will then provide some anesthesia to the area around the tooth and file down the chewing surface or reshape the tooth as necessary. An impression of the tooth is taken so that a specialized lab can create a crown specifically for your tooth. Your dentist will choose a porcelain color close to the surrounding teeth so that the results appear natural. While the crown is being created, a temporary crown is applied. This is generally an acrylic, plain shaped crown applied with a temporary adhesive to protect the tooth until the permanent crown arrives from the lab. At the second visit, the temporary crown will be removed. The color and fit of the new, permanent crown will be checked before it is placed. If all is well, anesthetic will be used for comfort as the new crown is permanently cemented into place.
A dental crown is recommended when a tooth is too damaged or decayed to be restored with a filling. Crowns preserve as much of the natural tooth as possible and restore its function and appearance. They are custom-made caps that cover the entire tooth, restoring it to its original shape and size. Dental crowns can be made of materials like porcelain, gold, or porcelain fused to metal. If your tooth is weak, fractured, or has undergone root canal treatment, a crown can protect and strengthen it.
Dental crowns serve both restorative and cosmetic purposes. They can protect teeth after root canal treatments, anchor dental bridges, and complete dental implants. Crowns can also improve the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth, and strengthen weak or fractured teeth. Additionally, crowns are used to support large fillings when only a small amount of natural tooth remains. Porcelain crowns are especially popular for their ability to blend with your natural teeth, enhancing your smile’s beauty.
No matter what your needs or goals for your smile may be, our dentists and teams are here to help. We look forward to meeting you and every member of your family and helping you take your first steps to better smiles.
Take some time to learn more about the services we provide at Oak Brook Dental Group. When you are ready to schedule an appointment with our dentists, contact our dental offices in Oak Brook.
Our compassionate and skilled team is committed to restoring the health and function of your smile, no matter your age. We offer a full range of restorative dentistry services to address various dental concerns and help you regain a confident, healthy smile. From children to seniors, we provide personalized care tailored to meet the unique needs of every family member.
Whether you’re dealing with cavities, damaged teeth, or missing teeth, our restorative treatments—such as fillings, crowns, bridges, and dental implants—are designed to bring back the strength and appearance of your natural teeth. Our goal is to make the process smooth and comfortable, ensuring your dental visits are as stress-free as possible.
If you’re facing any dental issues, we are here to help restore your smile and improve your oral health for years to come. Contact us today to learn more about our restorative dentistry services and how we can help you achieve a beautiful, fully functional smile.
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