Many people procrastinate when it comes to dental health, especially when faced with more complex procedures like a dental crown. However, overlooking the importance of this treatment can lead to severe consequences not only for your teeth but also for your overall health.
Why You Might Need a Dental Crown
It’s common for people to take their teeth for granted until they experience an issue. Whether you feel immense pain and discomfort, or the problem makes you self-conscious about your smile, having cavities and tooth decay can severely impact your quality of life. There are many reasons why a dentist may recommend a dental crown. The most common of these reasons include:
- To cover areas in teeth where decay has broken down the enamel and left gaps
- Covering teeth that have become significantly discolored
- For protection and concealment of dental implants
- To restore a broken or worn-down tooth
- Improving the appearance of teeth
- Safeguarding a severely decayed tooth from further deterioration
- To support a filling and hold it in position
Dental crowns may also be offered to people who struggle to maintain good dental hygiene for various reasons.
5 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Overlook the Importance of Having a Dental Crown Procedure
1.Protection
A damaged tooth is vulnerable to bacteria and extended breakdown. If the roots of your tooth are already exposed or your tooth is cracked, leaving it without protection can lead to the problem persisting and worsening quickly. If the problems aren’t treated, it can lead to more involved and complicated treatment later.
2.Prevention
Dental crowns can help prevent extractions by supporting brittle teeth. If you leave a vulnerable tooth without the protection of a crown, the damage may continue, leading to the tooth requiring extraction, which can leave unsightly gaps in your smile.
3.Risk Management
Untreated infections can lead to abscesses and even bone decay, which is expensive and extremely painful. A dental crown can be an excellent way to isolate a tooth damaged by severe decay to minimize the risk of serious diseases that can spread and cause life-long problems.
Pain Relief
If your tooth is broken or cracked, you may develop painful gums, cheeks, and tongue sores. These sores can become infected, and if the rough spot isn’t removed, it can reoccur repeatedly, causing chronic pain and difficulty eating.
Long-Lasting Solution
A badly damaged or infected tooth can make daily life unbearable, and chewing and speaking can be exceedingly painful. A dental crown procedure will address all these issues, and a crown that can last 15 or more years will be applied to protect your tooth and prevent extraction.
What To Expect From a Dental Crown Procedure
Most dental crowns require two visits to be fitted and placed because they must be custom-made to match your other teeth perfectly. The dental tools used at the first appointment to take impressions of your teeth can get close to the gums, so your dentist will administer an anesthetic to prevent discomfort.
Your dentist will use specialized equipment to create a mold of your tooth that provides the exact measurements for your crown. Whether you have chosen a porcelain or ceramic crown, your dentist will determine the precise coloring of your tooth to disguise the crown and make it look more natural.
Next, any fillings, damaged dental enamel or tooth pieces that have become decayed or brittle will be removed. This part may take some time, which can be distressing, so try to stay calm and alert your dentist immediately if you feel any sharp pain. After the tooth is prepared, final impressions will be taken to ensure a precise fit.
We’ll use a temporary crown to ensure your comfort and long-term oral health. Your permanent crown will be custom-made and carefully tested at your next visit to guarantee a perfect fit that prevents bacteria from accumulating. The crown will then be secured using dental cement and should stay in place for many years.
Dental Anxiety
Many people are afraid of seeing the dentist. Whether this is due to previous bad experiences or a fear of the unknown, most patients have significant anxiety when visiting their dentist. To reduce this anxiety, it’s advisable to do plenty of research. Read as many reviews as possible and ask friends and family for recommendations.
If you experience intense pain at any point during your appointment, you have the right to alert the doctor and demand further pain relief. If you have a history of negative experiences, ask your dentist to walk you through the procedure before or throughout to help you feel more comfortable.
Don’t Overlook the Power of Dental Crowns
Postponing dental procedures can lead to long-term problems that may follow you for life. Being treated promptly can be frightening, but understanding the procedure and choosing a reputable dentist can make the situation more manageable. Prioritize your dental health and invest in a healthy smile and proper chewing ability that lasts many years.