Tooth decay is one of the most common dental problems, so it’s no surprise that dental crowns are frequently chosen as a go-to cosmetic dental option. Crowns offer a durable and reliable solution for those whose teeth have been affected by tooth decay or damage. Think of them as custom-made caps that beautifully cover the visible part of a tooth, helping to restore damaged teeth.
People often confuse dental crowns with dental fillings, which are another popular treatment for decay. However, they serve different purposes and are applied in very different ways.
Read on to discover why dental crowns are the superior choice for restoring your smile and where to find the best dental restoration in Naperville.
Is a Dental Crown Right for You? Signs You Might Need One
Several dental issues affect the shape or look of a natural tooth — in these cases, a dental crown might be the perfect solution:
- Teeth that are significantly decayed due to plaque or tartar accumulation
- A fractured tooth
- Teeth that are weakened by decay or damage
- A tooth that has received root canal therapy
- A tooth that appears misshapen or discolored
- Experiencing pain when chewing
- Have tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
Additionally, if you have a large dental filling that needs to be replaced or a dental implant that needs restoration, a crown provides a permanent, natural-looking solution.
Top Benefits of Dental Crowns for a Stronger, Healthier Smile
Dental crowns offer numerous advantages for patients seeking to improve oral health and enjoy a stronger, healthier smile — including:
- Shielding damaged or weakened teeth from further decay or injury, preserving the remaining natural tooth structure
- Restoring the shape, size, and function of damaged teeth — allowing for normal chewing and speaking
- Improving the appearance of discolored, misshapen, or unattractive teeth
Dental crowns are also highly durable and versatile dental restorations. Crafted from strong materials such as porcelain or metal alloys, they are engineered to withstand years of use when properly maintained. Their versatility allows them to address a wide range of dental concerns — making them an essential tool in modern dentistry.
The Different Types of Dental Crowns: Which One is Right for You?
Dental crowns can be made from various materials, each with its own set of advantages and considerations. The most common types of dental crowns include:
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM)
- All-ceramic or all-porcelain
- All-metal — such as gold or other alloy
- Zirconia crowns
PFM crowns offer a balance between strength and aesthetics, while all-ceramic crowns provide the most natural appearance, making them ideal for front teeth. All-metal crowns are incredibly durable and best suited for back teeth where aesthetics are less crucial. Zirconia crowns combine strength and aesthetics, offering a metal-free alternative suitable for most areas of the mouth.
The choice of crown material depends on factors such as the tooth's location, your budget, aesthetic preferences, and specific dental needs.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
With proper care, dental crowns have wonderful longevity — usually between 10 and 15 years or longer. The material of the crown plays a role in its durability, with metal dental crowns generally lasting longer than ceramic dental crowns. Other factors that can affect a crown's lifespan include oral hygiene practices, teeth-grinding habits, diet, and the location of the crown in the mouth. Crowns on back teeth, which endure more pressure from chewing, may wear out faster than those on front teeth.
Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice daily, flossing, and avoiding hard or sticky foods, can help extend the life of your dental crown.
This is because while the crown itself doesn't decay, the underlying tooth can still be susceptible to decay at the crown's edges.
Dental Crowns vs. Fillings
Dental crowns and dental fillings are both restorative dental treatments, but they serve different purposes and are used in distinct situations. Fillings are typically used to repair smaller areas of decay or minor damage, where only a portion of the tooth needs to be restored. They involve removing the decayed material and filling the cavity with materials like composite resin or amalgam.
Crowns, on the other hand, are used when there is more extensive damage or decay, covering the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line. A crown is essentially a cap that encases the whole tooth, providing protection and restoring its shape, size, and strength.
While fillings are less invasive and more affordable for smaller issues, crowns offer more comprehensive protection and are better suited for teeth that have undergone root canal treatment, have large fillings, or are severely worn down or cracked.
What to Expect Before, During, and After Getting a Dental Crown
The process of getting a dental crown typically involves several steps that may need to be spread over two or more appointments. Before the procedure, your dentist will perform a comprehensive dental exam and may take dental X-rays to assess the extent of damage and ensure the tooth's root and surrounding bone are healthy enough to support a crown.
During the first appointment, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any tooth decay, shaping it to accommodate the crown, and taking impressions for the custom crown. Impressions can be taken with traditional molds or with digital dental scanning technology. A temporary crown is then placed to protect the prepared tooth.
A dental laboratory then fabricates your permanent crown. At the second appointment, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is placed and adjusted to ensure the proper fit. After getting a crown, you may experience some tooth sensitivity or discomfort — this will usually subside within a few days.
Where to Find the Best Restorative Dentist in Naperville
When restoring your smile with dental crowns, you deserve nothing less than the best — a skilled restorative dentist who can provide long-lasting, natural-looking results that will keep you smiling confidently for years to come. At Naperville Family Dental, we’re a legacy practice that feels more like a luxury boutique spa than a run-of-the-mill dentist office. You’ll feel comfortable, confident, and relaxed in a state-of-the-art environment and at the skilled hands of Dr. Donald Jonker. He has extensive experience with a wide array of restorative dental treatments and is committed to staying current with the latest techniques and advancements. You’ll experience the best possible outcome with your dental crown procedure with precisely fitted and durable crowns that seamlessly blend with your natural teeth.
At Naperville Family Dental, Dr. Jonker’s highly personalized, patient-focused approach, combined with our cutting-edge technology, guarantees an efficient, accurate dental crown procedure right here in Naperville without the need to see an additional specialist. This combination of advanced expertise, modern technology, and compassionate care makes Naperville Family Dental your premier choice for high-quality restorative dentistry.
Ready to restore your smile with long-lasting dental crowns prepared by the best restorative dentist in Naperville?
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