Dental crowns are caps, typically made of porcelain, that your dentist will place on the top of your teeth. These dental appliances have both restorative and cosmetic uses. Generally, your dentist will use a dental crown to restore the look and function of a weakened tooth. Additionally, your dentist may use dental crowns to adjust the aesthetics of your smile. 

Dental crowns are versatile dental appliances that can restore your teeth and smile. There are many different ways your dentist can use them to improve your smile. 

Root Canal

If you have a severe infection or deep tooth decay, your dentist may need to perform a root canal. A root canal removes infection deep within a tooth. Infections in your mouth can be dangerous, which is why it is important to act quickly.

As a result, your dentist will drill into your tooth to remove the infected pulp. During this procedure, your dentist may need to remove a large portion of your tooth. 

Unfortunately, this can leave the tooth weak and unstable. Therefore, your dentist will most likely fill your tooth with dental resin and then cap the tooth with a crown. This will provide structure to your tooth. In addition, the new dental crown will restore the points and ridges of your tooth. 

Damaged or Broken Tooth

There are many different ways that you can break or damage a tooth. When damage occurs, it can cause you pain and increase your chances of developing tooth decay. In addition, if there is a break in the enamel, bacteria can get deep within the tooth to create an infection. Therefore, your dentist will use a dental crown to restore your tooth to its original shape and structure. 

Worn Teeth

Over time, our teeth can begin to lose their shape. This is a result of everyday wear and tear. Each time you eat or speak, your teeth touch, which can wear down the shape and structure of the edges and ridges of your teeth. While age is one factor, there are other reasons why you may experience premature wear. 

Bruxism is a condition where a person grinds or clenches their teeth. Also known as teeth grinding, bruxism mostly occurs at night while the person is sleeping. Unfortunately, many people don’t know they have the condition unless someone observes it or their dentist notices it. Grinding your teeth can cause your teeth to wear down over time. 

If your teeth become worn, your dentist may use a dental crown to restore the shape of your teeth. 

Dental Bridges or Implants

When you get a dental appliance to replace missing teeth, you will likely get a dental crown as well. Dental bridges are a type of prosthetic tooth that fills the gap between your missing teeth. To anchor the device in place, your dentist will use a dental crown.

Dental implants are titanium prosthetic tooth roots for missing teeth. Once your dentist places the internal portion of the dental implant, you will receive a dental crown serving as the top portion of the implant.