Crown and bridge dentistry is the restoration of natural teeth that have been damaged, decayed or lost. After a thorough examination and a review of your dental and medical history, Dr. Smith can provide diagnosis and treatment options.
Why have Dental Crowns?
Crowns, or "caps" as they are often called, serve two important functions. First, they restore the healthy appearance of your teeth and your face. Teeth also support the muscles in our faces, so anything less than a full tooth may affect the way you look.
Second, a crown will be the same size and shape as the natural tooth. This means it will keep your jaw and bite properly aligned and will make sure that other teeth don't shift locations or take on a greater share of the work of biting and chewing.
What are Dental Crowns made of?
At Smith Dental Care our dental crowns are most often made of gold or porcelain. Crowns can be made of stainless steel, but those crowns are often temporary and not designed for long-term wear.
Porcelain crowns are typically built on a metal base, which fits snugly over the natural tooth. Porcelain comes in many different shades, and we will choose a shade that matches the color of your natural teeth.
Porcelain crowns usually are so carefully matched in color, they cannot be distinguished from your natural teeth. Many people choose porcelain crowns because the dental work becomes virtually invisible.
Ask Dr. Smith about new cermic crowns. They have a beautiful life-like appearance but are not appropriate in all situations.
Care of Dental Crowns
Once your crown is in place,be sure the area is brushed well and that you floss below the gum line. While the crown protects your remaining tooth from further decay, you must protect the base of the crown from bacterial growth and gum disease.
Regular brushing and flossing, just as you would your natural teeth, will ensure that your crown will be in place for years to come!
Dental crowns that reflect light with a natural healthy glow are now available at Smith Dental Care. Call or click today to make an appointment!