Dental crowns are a popular and effective solution for restoring damaged, weakened, or cosmetically imperfect teeth. If you’re looking for high-quality dental crowns in Nashville, understanding the procedure and its benefits can help you make an informed decision about your oral health.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns often cover and protect a tooth that has been weakened by decay, fractures, or large fillings. They are also commonly used after a root canal treatment or to improve the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth.
Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including:
- Porcelain or Ceramic: These crowns are often used for front teeth because they mimic the look and color of natural teeth.
- Metal: Gold or alloy crowns are known for their durability and are typically used for molars.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal: These crowns balance strength and aesthetics, combining the natural appearance of porcelain with the durability of metal.
Why You Might Need a Dental Crown
There are several reasons why your dentist might recommend a dental crown:
- Tooth Damage: If your tooth is cracked, broken, or weakened due to decay, a crown can provide the strength and protection it needs to function normally.
- Large Fillings: When a tooth has a large filling that compromises its structure, a crown may be necessary to restore its strength and integrity.
- After a Root Canal: Following a root canal, a crown is often placed to protect the treated tooth from further damage or infection.
- Cosmetic Improvements: Crowns can improve the overall appearance of your smile if you have discolored or misshapen teeth.
- To Support a Dental Bridge: Crowns sometimes hold a dental bridge in place, filling the gap left by missing teeth.
The Dental Crown Procedure in Nashville
If you’re in Nashville and considering dental crowns, the process typically involves two visits to the dentist.
- First Visit: During your first appointment, your dentist will examine and prepare the affected tooth for the crown. This usually involves reshaping the tooth to allow the crown to fit properly. After shaping, your dentist will take an impression of the tooth, which will be sent to a dental lab to create your custom crown. In the meantime, a temporary crown will protect your tooth.
- Second Visit: Once your permanent crown is ready (typically within a couple of weeks), you’ll return to the dentist to have it fitted. Your dentist will check the crown’s fit and color before permanently cementing it.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
There are several advantages to getting dental crowns, especially if you choose a reputable provider in Nashville:
- Restored Functionality: Crowns protect and strengthen weakened teeth, allowing you to bite and chew normally.
- Improved Aesthetics: Modern dental crowns are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, enhancing the appearance of your smile.
- Durability: Crowns are built to last. With proper care, they can endure many years of wear and tear.
- Versatility: Crowns are a versatile dental solution, offering protection, cosmetic enhancement, and support for other treatments.
Caring for Your Dental Crowns
Caring for your dental crowns is similar to maintaining your natural teeth. Be sure to:
- Brush and floss regularly to prevent decay around the crown.
- Avoid chewing on complex objects (such as ice or pens) that could damage your crown.
- Visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings.
With the proper care, your crown can last 10-15 years or even longer.
Suppose you’re considering dental crowns in Nashville. In that case, you can trust this restorative dental procedure to provide a robust, durable, and aesthetically pleasing solution for damaged teeth. Whether you’re dealing with a cracked tooth or a large filling or want to improve your smile, dental crowns offer a lasting and effective treatment option. Reach out to a trusted dentist in Nashville today to discuss how crowns can help restore your smile and confidence.
Are you looking for durable and natural-looking dental crowns in Nashville? Hillsboro Village Dental offers custom crowns to restore your smile’s beauty and function. Whether you need to fix a damaged tooth or enhance your smile, our expert team is here to help. Schedule your consultation today!
