Are you wondering what the purpose is behind dental crowns?
Our Howe, TX, dentist Dr. Michael Karleskint is a dental crown expert, so you are in trustworthy, capable hands when you come into our office for treatment; however, we also know that our patients want to be fully informed about any dental restoration or procedure they may need to undergo beforehand. Here’s the 411 on dental crowns and what they can do to strengthen and improve your smile.
What is a dental crown?
This fixed dental prosthetic is made to look just like the natural crown of the tooth. This custom dental cap will completely cover what’s left of the damaged tooth all the way to the gums. Essentially, a crown becomes the tooth’s new and more durable outer surface.
When are dental crowns used?
Crowns are one of the most versatile and most popular restorations that our Howe, TX, dentist places. You may benefit from a dental crown if,
- You have a weak or excessively worn tooth
- You have a cracked, fractured, or broken tooth
- You have a severely decayed tooth
- You have a tooth with a large, worn filling
- You have a discolored or misshapen tooth
- You’re replacing your missing tooth with a dental implant
- You are replacing your missing tooth or teeth with a dental bridge
What are dental crowns made from?
While there are a variety of materials from which crowns can be made, nowadays we use either porcelain or ceramic to craft our crowns. This is because these materials are not just incredibly durable, but they also match the color of your teeth, so they look completely natural. No one will be able to tell which tooth has a crown.
How long do dental crowns last?
With the proper care, crowns can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. While crowns will not last forever, you can improve their lifespan through proper hygiene and care, which includes,
- Brushing your teeth at least twice a day
- Flossing every day
- Avoiding hard or sticky foods
- Avoiding bad habits such as biting your nails, using your teeth as a tool, or crunching on ice
- Visiting your Howe, TX, family dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings
Whether you have questions about dental crowns or you simply need to schedule your six-month cleaning, call Dr. Michael Karleskint of Howe Family Dentistry today at (903) 532-5545.