Dental crowns serve several purposes. This treatment can restore the size, function and shape of a tooth. It is also a popular choice among patients who have yellow or brown stains on their teeth when teeth-whitening methods are not effective. If you have suffered a broken or cracked tooth, you should consider getting a crown as well. These conditions can cause pain and irritation, not to mention hinder your smile. You can stop living with this embarrassment and discomfort.
Teeth are stronger than bones and can stand up to years of wear and tear. People who practice good oral hygiene can fend off cavities and infections. These issues could otherwise cause physical damage to the tooth, including cracking and breaking. Accidents and injuries are also common culprits of fractures and cracks. These can occur by suffering blows to the face from slipping on ice, falling down the stairs, getting into a car accident or playing contact sports.
It is important to call the dentist as soon as possible after breaking or cracking a tooth. Putting off a visit to the dental office could cause an infection and develop worse problems. The dentist may be able to see a patient for an emergency appointment on the same day. While waiting, the patient should only eat soft foods and should take over-the-counter medication to relieve any pain. If the jagged edges of the broken tooth are bothersome, the person can put a piece of wax on the tooth.
Getting a crown is a multi-step process. At the first appointment, the dentist will take X-rays and examine the root and gums. The dentist will remove part of the tooth so the cap can fit properly. If the crack is large, the dentist may have to build up the tooth first. An impression will be made, which will go to a laboratory where a technician will custom-make the crown. Often, the dentist will place a temporary crown over the tooth until the permanent one is ready.
A few weeks later, the crown should be ready for the patient. At this visit, the dentist will remove the temporary crown and cement the new one to the tooth. There will likely be some adjustments and testing first. In the coming months, the dentist will follow up with the patient to make sure the dental crowns are working effectively and allowing the patient to eat normally.
A broken tooth can hinder the appearance and function of a tooth. When you cannot eat or speak properly, and when you are too embarrassed to smile, you need a solution. Crowns not only strengthen and protect the tooth but can also hide the breaks and cracks. A crown will match the natural look and color of the surrounding teeth so people will not even know you have it. Make an appointment with your dentist today so you can take care of this troubling issue.
Request an appointment here: https://www.dentistofvisalia.com or call Visalia Care Dental at (559) 975-1213 for an appointment in our Visalia office.
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