Despite your best efforts to keep your teeth healthy, sometimes damage still occurs. Whether that’s through external trauma or through internal decay, you need to address it as soon as possible, to minimize the chances of it worsening. Regardless of the cause, a dental crown — or cap — is likely the answer. In today’s blog, your Houston, TX, dentist discusses what a cap is, when you might need one, and the ways to maintain it.
What Is A Crown?
It is essentially a piece of shaped material that is custom-designed to fit over a damaged tooth. It can be made with metal, porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal, or zirconia. Usually, metal caps go on the molars since they are less visible and need to withstand more bite pressure. Regardless of the type of material used, your dentist will try to make your dental crown blend seamlessly in with the rest of your teeth to make it as unnoticeable as possible. When you come in to have one placed, your dentist will take detailed images of the affected tooth and will then create a unique cap designed specifically to fit your mouth. The ultimate goal is to have you regain your full bite capability once again.
When Do I Need One?
A dental crown is typically recommended if a tooth is substantially damaged. For light cracks or chips, for example, bonding or contouring can get the job done. However, for more severe issues, capping the tooth is the way to go. Some reasons that necessitate a cap include severely cracked teeth, decay, holding a dental bridge in place, strengthening a tooth that has been filled, and protecting a tooth after root canal therapy. It can also be a good option for cosmetic reasons as well — like reshaping a misformed tooth, for example. Ultimately, your dentist will be able to tell you if a dental crown is the right option for you.
How Do I Care For It?
Luckily, since caps are created to mimic your natural teeth as closely as possible, you just need to care for them like you normally would. This means brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing regularly. You should also see your dentist every six months for a cleaning and an examination. During these checkups, they will make sure it is still fitting as it should and that everything looks good. Should an issue arise, make sure you contact your dentist right away.
Have More Questions About Dental Crowns?
To learn more about dental crowns and to see if they’re the right option for you, you can contact your Houston, TX, dentist, Dr. Vlachakis, by calling 281-974-4494. You can also visit Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry at 820 Gessner Rd., Suite #1560 Houston, TX 77024.
