What is a dental crown?
Though the term brings to mind the majestic hats made for royalty, a dental crown works more like a shield. Your Hertel provider creates a small, tooth-shaped cap from authentic zirconia. When placed over a tooth, the crown helps provide protection and support.
Why do you need a dental crown?
Crowns help Dr. Samad correct and support problems with your teeth, mainly when an individual tooth needs help. Some of the most common uses of crowns include:
- Protecting a weakened tooth from breaking
- Restoring a worn down or broken tooth
- Holding a dental bridge in place
- Covering and preserving a dental implant
- Aesthetic and cosmetic reasons, such as hiding a discolored tooth
Which kinds of crowns are available?
Crowns commonly contain stainless steel, porcelain, resin, or certain metals. Your Hertel care team uses authentic zirconia to craft crowns, which offer a few advantages over other materials:
- Incredibly durable, so chipping is less of a concern
- Cheaper than different kinds of metals
- Less wait time because your Hertel team shapes the crown in the office
Do dental crowns require special care?
Crowns generally don’t require special care beyond taking good care of your teeth.
It’s important to remember that while your new crown is metal, the underlying tooth is not immune to future decay, damage, or gum disease.
How long do dental crowns last?
Assuming you take regular care of your teeth, your dental crown should last anywhere from 5-15 years. Make sure you’re not only brushing at least twice a day but flossing and rinsing with mouthwash as well.
Any additional wear and tear you put on your crown, such as chewing ice, biting your nails, or grinding your teeth at night, can reduce its lifespan. If you have trouble with any of these activities, let your Hertel provider know.
If you have a tooth that’s bothering you and you need relief, call Hertel Family Dentistry in Buffalo, New York, or schedule your consultation online.
