Dental crowns can be a necessary procedure for numerous reasons. However, dental crowns can also be an expensive procedure even with dental insurance; the out of pocket cost can add up quickly. In some cases, the expense may be in the hundreds of dollars.
Ask Questions
By asking questions, you will be able to get the information needed to make a choice on getting the dental procedure. If the dental crown is suggested; feel free to ask questions for the reasons why the procedure is required. A dentist can explain to you the reasons for wanting to put dental crowns on your teeth. Ask the dentist to explain step by step the need for the procedure. Most dentists will be happy to show you x-rays and models of a tooth to help explain the procedure. The reasons for having dental crowns will vary from person to person. By getting a crown, a tooth may last longer which can aid in your overall health.
Tooth Decay
Dental crowns may be used if a tooth is decayed or weak. Dental crowns are placed over the top of the tooth to cover and protect, the crown will actually be in the shape of the tooth. The crown can help protect the weak tooth or cover up a large filling. Large fillings that take up half of the tooth or more may get a crown for protection. A large filling can leave a tooth weak and prone to cracking which is why the crown is used to help improve the overall strength of the tooth.
Broken Tooth
Broken and cracked teeth can happen for many reasons. Chewing improperly on a hard piece of food can cause a tooth to crack. The stress on the teeth from improper chewing may produce fracture lines. A tooth that is already broken or cracked may be required to have a crown. The crown will help protect the tooth as well as extend the life of the tooth by keeping the fractures together. If a cracked or fractured tooth does not receive proper treatment, pain and infection may occur.
Root Canal
A root canal may be the reason for having a dental crown placed over a tooth. Root canals involve hollowing out the tooth as part of the procedure. The tooth will be weak and subject to fracturing. A way to help prevent this type of fracturing is with the use of dental crowns. Whenever a root canal is performed, there is usually a dental crown procedure to follow.
Worn Teeth
As you age, teeth may have excessive wear. Worn down teeth can happen for different reasons; one being acid erosion. Teeth simply get shorter and shorter as time progresses. Often the enamel on a tooth can also be worn away. Worn enamel can leave a tooth vulnerable due to the softness of the remaining tooth. In this instance, the only way to restore a tooth would be with a crown.
Cosmetic Purposes
Many dentists will suggest dental crowns for cosmetic purposes or modification; a way to look better. Teeth with an undesirable appearance can be restored to a natural healthier look with the use of a crown. A crown can be placed over the unhealthy looking tooth, being shaped into a tooth that is more desirable in appearance. Dental crowns can restore a smile to a more natural look. The crowns can be made to match existing teeth.
Dental Bridges & Implants
A crown may be used to help hold a dental bridge in place or to cover up a dental implant. Dental bridges help close a gap between teeth when some are missing. Crowns are used to anchor the missing teeth which help in completing the dental bridge. Crowns can be modified to help you keep the appearance of a natural smile.
The types of crowns vary as well; dental crowns can be made from stainless steel materials, metal which includes gold or porcelain materials. The choice is dependent on what you want for your teeth and the price. Usually an all-porcelain crown is the best choice when having this type of procedure done. Porcelain crowns may give your smile a more natural look; the color is easily matched to your original teeth. A beautiful smile often needs help; consult your dentist to find out if a crown is right for you.
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