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Dental crowns are synthetic caps, which are usually fabricated of a material such as porcelain, and placed on the top of a tooth.  They are used to restore your tooth to its normal shape and size, as well as to strengthen and improve the appearance of a tooth.  Crowns are necessary when a tooth is broken down and fillings won’t solve the problem. 

If a tooth is cracked, a crown holds the tooth together to seal the cracks, preventing the damage from becoming worse. In addition, crowns can be used to provide support for a large filling, attach a bridge, protect weak teeth from fracturing, restore fractured teeth or to cover badly shaped and discolored teeth.

Your dentist may recommend a crown to:

• Replace a large filling when there is not enough tooth remaining.
• Protect a weak tooth from fracturing.
• Restore a fractured tooth.
• Attach a bridge.
• Cover a dental implant.
• Cover a poorly shaped tooth.
• Cover a tooth that has had root canal treatment.

The main goal is to create a crown that looks like a natural tooth.  This is why your dentist takes an impression of your teeth.  In order to achieve a desired look, a number of factors need to be considered: color, bite, shape and length of your natural teeth.  Any of these factors can significantly affect your appearance.

In order to prepare your teeth for the placement of a crown, your tooth’s size is often reduced so that the crown can fit over it appropriately.  Initially, an impression of your teeth and gums will be made and sent to a lab for creation.  Sometimes a temporary crown will be placed over your tooth while you wait for your permanent crown to be fabricated.  Once the crown is completed, your dentist will remove the temporary crown and permanently place your new crown onto your tooth. 

Proper Care for Lasting Results

Crowns can last a lifetime. The most important step you can take to ensure the longevity of your crown is to practice proper oral hygiene and maintain good eating habits.  It is important to take care of your crown or bridge as if it is your natural teeth.  Brushing and flossing everyday will protect you from tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath.  Maintaining a healthy diet by avoiding sugary snacks and drinks will help lengthen the life of your crown or bridge as well. 

If you have damaged or missing teeth contact Dr. Gregory A. Stiver at (816) 533-7393 today for further consultation and treatment. Not everyone is a candidate for dental crowns in Kansas City, but your dentist can create an appropriate treatment plan for your individual needs.