When to See a Dental Crown Specialist in Fresno, CA

Dental health is essential for maintaining overall well-being, confidence, and quality of life. One of the key components in restorative dentistry is the use of dental crowns. Dental crowns can address various dental issues, but how do you know when it’s time to see a Dental Crown Specialist in Fresno, CA? This detailed guide will explore the scenarios in which visiting a dental crown specialist becomes necessary, the benefits of their expertise, and what you can expect during your consultation and treatment process.

What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a cap placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are essential for preserving the functionality of teeth that are damaged, decayed, or aesthetically compromised. Dental crown specialists are dentists with advanced training and experience in restorative procedures, particularly in the application of dental crowns.

Why Do You Need a Dental Crown?

There are several reasons why a dentist might recommend a crown, including:

• To Protect a Weak Tooth: Teeth weakened by decay or fractures can benefit from the added strength provided by a crown. This prevents further damage and the potential for tooth loss.
• To Restore a Broken Tooth: Teeth that are already broken or severely worn down can be rebuilt with crowns, restoring them to their original shape and function.
• To Cover and Support a Tooth with a Large Filling: When a tooth has a large cavity or filling that comprises more than half of the tooth’s structure, a crown can protect it from breaking.
• To Hold a Dental Bridge in Place: Crowns are often used on either side of a dental bridge to anchor it securely in place.
• To Cover Misshaped or Severely Discolored Teeth: For cosmetic purposes, crowns can be used to improve the appearance of teeth that are misshaped or discolored.
• To Cover a Dental Implant: Dental Crowns are used to cover dental implants, providing a functional and natural-looking tooth replacement.
• To Cover a Tooth That Has Had a Root Canal Treatment: Post root canal therapy, teeth are more fragile and likely to fracture. A crown provides the necessary protection and support.

Types of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns can be made from several different materials, each with its advantages and disadvantages:

• Metal Crowns: Made from alloys that contain a high content of gold or platinum, or base-metal alloys such as cobalt-chromium and nickel-chromium. Metal crowns are highly durable and withstand biting and chewing forces well. However, their metallic color is the main drawback, making them more suitable for out-of-sight molars.
• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: These crowns provide a strong bond due to their metal structure and natural appearance because of the porcelain overlay. They can be color-matched to your adjacent teeth but may show a metal line at the gum line over time.
• All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain Crowns: Offering the best natural color match, these crowns are an excellent choice for front teeth. They are suitable for patients with metal allergies but are not as strong as metal crowns.
• Resin Crowns: These are less expensive than other crown types. However, they wear down over time and are more prone to fractures compared to porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns.
• Pressed Ceramic Crowns: These have a hard inner core and replace the metal liner that’s used in the all-ceramic crown-making process. They are capped with porcelain, offering the best natural color match and durability.

The Dental Crown Procedure

Getting a dental crown typically involves two visits to the dentist:

First Visit: Examination and Preparation

• Examination: The dentist examines and prepares the tooth needing the crown. This may involve taking X-rays to check the roots of the tooth and surrounding bone.
• Tooth Preparation: The tooth receiving the crown is filed down across the top and sides to make space for the crown. The extent of filing depends on the type of crown being used.
• Impression Making: After reshaping the tooth, the dentist makes an impression of the tooth using a paste or putty. This impression is sent to a dental lab where the crown is manufactured.
• Temporary Crown: A temporary crown is placed to cover and protect the prepared tooth while the crown is being made.

Second Visit: Crown Placement

• Removal of Temporary Crown: The dentist removes the temporary crown and checks the fit and color of the permanent crown.
• Permanent Crown Placement: Once everything is satisfactory, the new crown is permanently cemented into place.

Caring for Your Dental Crown

With proper care, a dental crown can last between 5 to 15 years. Here are some tips to extend the life of your crown:

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and prevent decay around the crown.
• Avoid Hard Foods: Chewing on ice, hard candy, or other hard objects can damage your crown.
• Regular Dental Checkups: Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups.

Potential Issues with Dental Crowns

While Dental Crowns are generally safe and effective, there are potential issues that might arise:

• Sensitivity: Newly crowned teeth might be sensitive immediately after the procedure as the anesthesia wears off. If the crowned tooth still has a nerve, you might experience some heat and cold sensitivity.
• Chipped Crown: Crowns made of porcelain can sometimes chip. Small chips can be repaired with composite resin, while larger chips may require a crown replacement.
• Loose Crown: The cement used to bond the crown to the tooth can wash out, causing the crown to become loose and allowing bacteria to leak in and cause decay.
• Crown Falls Off: Sometimes, the crown can fall off. If this happens, clean the crown and the front of your tooth and call your Dental Crown Specialist in Fresno, CA. They will give you instructions on how to care for your tooth and crown until you can be seen for a replacement.

Conclusion

Dental crowns are a versatile and widely used solution in modern dentistry, addressing both functional and aesthetic concerns. Whether you’re dealing with a damaged tooth, a large filling, or simply seeking to improve the appearance of your smile, a dental crown might be the right choice for you. Always consult with the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Fresno, CA to understand the best options for your dental health and to ensure that you receive the most suitable treatment for your needs. By understanding the purpose and process of getting a dental crown, you can make informed decisions and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.