A lot of us have heard our dentist in Burlingame, CA, say the dreadful words, “You need a crown.” Crowns are an intrusive and pricey alternative to fillings when repairing a tooth has become necessary.
However, modern dental techniques and technologies allow for more conservative treatment options to be explored by leading dentists before resorting to more invasive procedures like placing a crown. What follows is essential reading for anyone hoping to mend a tooth without resorting to a peak.
What is a dental crown?
A crown is a cap or covering over a tooth’s remaining root. The hat is a substitute for the natural tooth in function and appearance.
If the natural tooth is severely damaged—for example, if it is cracked, chipped, or fractured; if it needs a filling that is too large for the tooth to hold; if it has extensive decay or wear; if it is severely discolored or misshapen—a crown may be recommended by your dentist. When a dental implant or bridge is placed, the tooth is crowned to protect it.
How does it work, exactly?
When preparing a tooth for a crown, a dentist typically removes some healthy enamel. The initial appointment to the dentist to get a crown involves shaping the tooth, getting impressions, and getting a temporary crown cemented in place.
The lab takes a few weeks to make the crown from the impressions sent to them. The dentist will place the permanent crown at the second appointment. Some clinics now use sophisticated digital technologies that enable crown fabrication in a single appointment.
Modern dental technology allows far more restorations to be attempted with fillings before resorting to more invasive procedures like crowns. Here are some ways to restore a tooth without resorting to a peak:
- Speak to friends
Before getting crowns to restore teeth, talk to friends and relatives about how conservative the dentist seems. Be wary of doctors who rush through giving most patients the “royal” treatment.
- Review Sites
Your dental practice needs a strong web and social media presence, complete with patient evaluations. You will get the inside scoop on the dentist’s office, philosophy, methods, and cutting-edge equipment.
- Get the best help.
Contact a dentist conversant with the most recent developments in dental restorations.
- Ask questions
Do not be shy about inquiring about the percentage of patients with fillings versus crowns. In addition, everyone on the team should be comfortable explaining the dentist’s view on the importance of preserving the patient’s natural teeth.
Inquire about their tools, how they determine if a crown is essential, how often they update their skills, and anything else that appears necessary. True, but they are your teeth.
- Avoiding some food items
Popcorn, candies, licorice, and other sticky or gummy delicacies should be avoided. Do away with bad routines like chewing ice and popping candy. The force of biting into these treats could be enough to break a damaged tooth. In the end, the best thing you can do for your teeth is preventative care: Get your teeth professionally cleaned at least twice a year, and be sure you brush and floss at least twice a day.