As a means of restoring the form and function of the mouth following tooth loss or providing protection for teeth weakened by decay, dental crowns are among the most valuable tools in a cosmetic dentist’s tool belt.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a cap, typically made from porcelain (though porcelain-fused-to-metal, gold alloy, and zirconia crowns, among others, are also available), that covers and protects a damaged tooth or the site of an extracted tooth.
In cases of damage or decay in which the original tooth can be saved, a dentist will remove the decay and shape the natural tooth to fit a crown that restores a natural-looking smile and protects it from further damage.
When a natural tooth cannot be saved and requires extraction, a dental implant (artificial root, typically made of titanium) is placed into the jawbone. Once the implant has fused permanently with the jawbone, it acts as an anchoring point upon which a dental crown is placed.
What Are the Biggest Benefits of Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns offer patients a variety of significant benefits, both cosmetic and structural. Some of the most significant of these include:
- Providing structural support to remaining adjacent teeth, which can shift and become misaligned following tooth loss and result in further complications, including severe jaw pain
- Providing structural support to the jawbone, which can begin to lose density following tooth loss
- Restoring chipped or cracked teeth to their original shape
- Renewing a tooth’s chewing surface, enabling the patient to fully chew their food, which allows for proper digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Covering up teeth that are severely misshapen or severely discolored and unresponsive to whitening treatments with an attractive alternative whose color matches those of the surrounding teeth
- Restoring the self-confidence that comes with a uniform, properly aligned, and attractive smile
Dental Crowns in Hermitage, PA
If you’re in the Hermitage, PA area and would like to learn more about dental crowns as either a cosmetic or structural solution, contact dentist Dr. Deanna Thomas and the team at Thomas Family Dentistry to schedule a consultation appointment!