Dental crowns spare failing or misshapen teeth. They just may be the key to restoring your smile to natural appearance and perfect oral function. Your dentist in Monroe, Dr. Jeanette Murphy, uses various materials to craft these realistic restorations. Learn the details on why she recommends crowns and how they are placed and cared for.
 
What is a dental crown?
 
A dental crown strengthens a tooth compromised by decay, a substantial crack or chip, several fillings, abscess (Infection) after a root canal is completed or odd shape and size. In the past, dentists considered a variety of crown materials (gold or porcelain-fused-to-metal), but nowadays, dentists, such as Dr. Murphy in Monroe, use a strong tooth-colored material in most applications as their material of choice.
 
Known for its lifelike color, sheen and durability, zirconium can be shaded and shaped to replace a substantial amount of tooth structure above the gum line. Your dentist and dental lab technician confer on a treatment plan, including your X-rays and impressions of your mouth, to produce a crown that complements your appearance and which has the resiliency to bite and chew for years to come. In fact, says the American Dental Association, many crowns last at least a decade or even longer.
 
Other uses for crowns
 
Besides restoring a single, decayed tooth, Dr. Murphy may use a dental crown to:

• Finish and support a tooth saved by root canal therapy
• Complete a single-tooth dental implant (a titanium root inserted into the jaw to replace a missing tooth)
• Support fixed bridgework (typically two crowns attach one or more artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth)
• Build-up a tooth which is healthy but has a less than pleasing color, shape or size

Crowns require more enamel reduction (shaping with a high-speed drill and other instruments) than do restorations such as porcelain veneers. However, crowns also are exceptionally strong because they are three-dimensional and withstand the intense pressure exerted when a person bites and chews (particularly on the back teeth).

Crown care

It's as simple as caring for any other tooth:

• Brush twice daily.
• Floss once a day.
• Get your six-month cleanings and examinations with Dr. Murphy.
• Watch what you chew (no taffy, peanut brittle or non-food items)
• Wear a custom-fit bite guard if you habitually grind or clench your teeth

Obviously, then, you'll be protecting your crown from plaque and tartar at its margins and from excessive wear and tear.

A beautiful smile that lasts!

Together, you and Dr. Murphy will work toward that goal. If you have a worrisome tooth, a dental crown could help. Look into the possibilities at a consultation with Dr. Murphy and her team. Call the office, and we'll be happy to give you a convenient appointment to learn more: (734) 242-4744.