Dental crowns are artificial tooth coverings that are in the shape of the part of the tooth you see protruding from your gum. This means that they can either be in the shape of an incisor, canine premolar or molar. Here are the different times when dental crowns are needed:
If You Have Discoloured Teeth
Discoloured teeth that cannot be treated using teeth whitening products are treated through the use of veneers. An alternative to veneers can be the use of dental crowns, where part of your enamel is stripped off, then a dental crown of the same thickness as the enamel stripped off is attached to the tooth. This is done to all the discoloured teeth.
During the Installation of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are a solution for missing teeth. They are installed in sets of three with the help of dental crowns. Two dental crowns are prepared and attached on the opposite sides of a pontic (the false tooth to fill a gap left by a missing tooth) to form the set of three artificial teeth.
The dentist then locates the two natural teeth that are adjacent to the gap in your mouth. He or she strips off part of their enamel to make room for the two dental crowns attached to the pontic. This pontic fits in the gap like a jigsaw puzzle.
During the Installation of Dental Implants
Dental implant procedures are also a treatment option for missing teeth. They involve drilling dental implants into your jawbone to act as roots. An abutment is then attached on the opposite end of the dental implant to form an attachment place for a dental crown.
If You Have a Chipped or Cracked Tooth
Concealing a chipped or cracked tooth with a dental crown works best because it protects the tooth from further damage and also ensures an evened out tooth. The dentist strips off some enamel, evens out the tooth, and then places a dental crown over it. The dental crown is permanently placed and feels like a natural tooth. It is even the same colour as your other teeth, meaning no one can tell it is artificial.
When Covering and Protecting Weak Teeth
Sometimes, mostly because of an underlying condition, you might have a weak tooth or weak teeth. If left untreated, these weak teeth can become exposed to different conditions that may cause decay, chipping or even cracking. The solution is to apply a permanent dental crown that protects it from damage.
Contact a dentist who installs dental crowns in your area for more information.
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