Enhance Your Oral Health with Crowns

If you’re seeking a solution to restore the strength, functionality, and beauty of your smile, dental crowns offer a reliable and effective option. Whether you have teeth that are decayed, damaged, or simply need an aesthetic improvement, dental crowns protect the tooth’s structure while preserving the natural appeal of your smile.

See how our Omaha and La Vista cosmetic dentists treat patients in Papillon, Bellevue, and Chautauqua, NE. Keep reading to learn how this cosmetic treatment gives patients the smiles they deserve. 

What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a specially designed cap made from durable materials like porcelain, crafted to fit over a natural tooth. It serves as a protective barrier, safeguarding the tooth against decay, damage, or other dental conditions. By covering the visible portion of the tooth, the crown shields the underlying structure, preventing further harm and restoring strength to your bite.

Not only does a dental crown provide essential protection, but it also offers aesthetic benefits. Mimicking the shape, color, and size of your natural teeth, the customized crown seamlessly blends with your smile, enhancing its appearance. Whether you need to strengthen a compromised tooth or enhance the beauty of your smile, a dental crown is a reliable restoration that combines functionality with a natural, confident look.

Benefits of Dental Crowns:

Dental crowns offer numerous advantages, including:

• Restored Tooth Functionality: By protecting and strengthening damaged teeth, crowns allow for normal biting and chewing, improving overall oral function.
• Improved Aesthetics and Smile Enhancement: Crowns are designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, resulting in an aesthetically pleasing smile.
• Longevity and Durability: Porcelain crowns are known for their durability, and with proper care, they can last for many years, providing a long-term solution to dental concerns.

When Are Dental Crowns Necessary?

Dental crowns are recommended in various situations, including:

• Tooth Decay: When a tooth is extensively decayed and can’t be restored with a simple filling, a dental crown often becomes necessary.
• Severe Tooth Damage or Fractures: Teeth that are significantly cracked, fractured, or worn down can be effectively restored with dental crowns.
• Protection After Root Canal Treatment: Following root canal therapy, a dental crown is often placed to protect the weakened tooth and restore its strength.
• Enhancement of Tooth Aesthetics: Dental crowns can also be used for cosmetic purposes, such as improving the shape, size, or color of a tooth.

Dental Crown Procedure

During your initial consultation, your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth and determine if a crown is the most suitable solution for your dental concern. After confirming you need a dental crown, we’ll get started with preparation. The tooth receiving the crown will be carefully prepared. Your cosmetic dentist will remove a small amount of enamel to create space for the crown.

Dr. Panneton will take an impression of your prepared tooth and send it to a dental laboratory, where a custom crown will be fabricated to match your natural teeth. While your permanent crown is being created, he’ll place a temporary crown to protect the prepared tooth. Once the permanent crown is ready, it will be securely bonded to your tooth. Your cosmetic dentist will ensure a proper fit and make any necessary adjustments for optimal comfort and aesthetics.

Caring For Your Crown

Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure your dental crown’s longevity and optimal performance. By following these simple guidelines, you can keep your crown looking and functioning at its best:

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Pay extra attention to the area around the crown to remove plaque and food particles. Don’t forget to floss daily, gently sliding the floss between your teeth and along the gumline.
• Avoid Excessive Force or Pressure: Although dental crowns are durable, they can still be damaged under excessive force or pressure. Avoid biting down on hard objects like ice, pens, or fingernails, as well as using your teeth as tools for opening packages or bottles.
• Choose Tooth-Friendly Foods: Be mindful of your eating habits to protect your dental crown. Try to avoid sticky or chewy foods that could potentially dislodge or damage the crown. Additionally, minimize your consumption of sugary foods and drinks to maintain overall oral health.
• Schedule Regular Dental Check-Ups: Regular visits to your dentist are crucial for the long-term success of your dental crown. Your dentist will examine the crown, check its fit and integrity, and address any concerns or issues promptly. These routine check-ups also provide an opportunity for professional cleaning to maintain optimal oral health.
• Address Teeth Grinding or Clenching: If you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, inform your dentist. They may recommend a nightguard or other protective measures to prevent excessive force on your dental crown and protect your natural teeth.
• Stay Hydrated and Avoid Staining Substances: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain a healthy mouth and minimizes the risk of staining. Additionally, limit your consumption of staining substances such as coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco to preserve the natural appearance of your crown.