At New Leaf Family Dental, Dr. Margaret McGuire often helps patients with dental crowns. While they’re a routine part of general dentistry, many patients aren’t quite sure what they are or when they might need one. Let’s break down everything you need to know about these helpful restorations.
What Exactly Is a Dental Crown?
Think of a dental crown as a protective cap for your tooth. Sometimes called a dental cap, it fits over your entire tooth like a helmet, covering it from the gum line up. This restoration restores both the strength and appearance of a damaged tooth, allowing it to function normally again.
Crowns are custom-made to match your natural teeth in both color and shape, so they blend seamlessly with your smile. They’re incredibly durable and, with proper care, can last many years.
When Do You Need a Crown?
Dr. McGuire may recommend a dental crown for several reasons:
Protecting a Weakened Tooth
If you have a tooth that’s cracked, severely worn down, or has a large filling, a crown can prevent further damage. It essentially holds everything together and distributes biting pressure evenly across the tooth.
After Root Canal Therapy
Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment become more brittle over time. A crown protects these teeth from fracturing during normal chewing and biting.
Restoring a Broken Tooth
When a tooth breaks or fractures significantly, a crown can restore its original shape and function. This is especially important for back teeth that handle heavy chewing forces.
Covering Dental Implants
If you’re receiving a dental implant to replace a missing tooth, a crown serves as the visible “tooth” portion that attaches to the implant.
Improving Appearance
Crowns can also address cosmetic concerns, covering severely discolored or misshapen teeth to give you a more confident smile.
Understanding the Tooth Crown Procedure
Wondering what the tooth crown procedure involves? At our Greensboro office, Dr. McGuire and her team make the process as comfortable as possible.
During your first visit, she’ll prepare the tooth by removing any decay and reshaping it to accommodate the crown. Don’t worry, you’ll receive local anesthesia to ensure you’re comfortable throughout. Next, she’ll take impressions of your tooth, which are sent to a dental laboratory where your custom crown is crafted.
You’ll receive a temporary crown to protect your tooth while your permanent one is being made. This usually takes about two to three weeks.
At your second appointment, Dr. McGuire will remove the temporary crown and check the fit and color of your permanent one. Once everything looks perfect, she’ll cement it permanently into place.
Taking Care of Your Crown
The good news? Caring for a dental crown is simple. Brush twice daily, floss regularly, and keep up with your routine dental checkups. Avoid chewing ice or hard objects, and if you grind your teeth at night, ask Dr. McGuire about a nightguard to protect your investment.
Ready to Learn More?
If you’re experiencing tooth pain, have a damaged tooth, or simply want to discuss whether a dental crown might be right for you, we’re here to help. Call New Leaf Family Dental at 336-282-3400 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Margaret McGuire. Our team in Greensboro is committed to helping you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.