Revitalize Your Smile with Dental Crowns
Do you have damaged, decayed, or missing teeth affecting your self confidence? At Katy Smile Design, our Katy, TX, dentist, Dr. Lauren Shepard offers dental crowns. Dental crowns are the solution that you’ve been looking for.
If you’re interested in receiving dental crowns, contact Katy Smile Design today by calling (281) 396-4366. Our experienced team will work with you to determine if this is the right option for your dental needs.
What are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns, also known as tooth caps, are custom-made prosthetic restorations placed over damaged, decayed, or misshapen teeth to restore their function, shape, size, and appearance. Dental crowns can also cover dental implants or support dental bridges. They are typically made of porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, or metal alloys like gold or silver.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns offer many benefits beyond just restoring your smile, including:
- Protection: Dental crowns can protect weak, cracked, or decayed teeth from further damage or infection.
- Restoration: Dental crowns can restore the shape, size, and function of damaged or missing teeth, allowing you to eat and speak with ease.
- Aesthetics: Dental crowns can improve the appearance of discolored, misshapen, or crooked teeth, giving you a more confident smile.
- Longevity: Dental crowns are durable and can last many years with proper care, making them a cost-effective solution in the long run.
- Comfort: Dental crowns can improve your bite and make chewing and speaking easier, reducing discomfort and pain.
Who Qualifies for Dental Crowns?
Anyone with damaged, decayed, or missing teeth may qualify for dental crowns. However, your Texas dentist will evaluate your dental health, medical history, and treatment goals to determine if dental crowns are the right choice for you. Factors that may affect your candidacy for dental crowns include the extent of the damage or decay, the location of the affected tooth, and your overall oral health.
Dental Crowns Procedure
The dental crown procedure involves the following steps:
- Consultation: Your Katy dentist will examine your teeth, take X-rays, and discuss your treatment options.
- Preparation: Dr. Shepard will numb the affected tooth and surrounding area with local anesthesia. They will then remove any decay or damage and shape the tooth to fit the crown.
- Impression: She’ll take an impression of your tooth using a putty-like material or a digital scanner. This impression will create a custom-made crown that fits your tooth perfectly.
- Temporary Crown: Dr. Shepard will place a temporary crown on your tooth while the permanent crown is being made. This temporary crown will protect your tooth and allow you to eat and speak normally.
- Placement: Once the permanent crown is ready, your dentist will remove the temporary crown and place the permanent crown on your tooth using dental cement.
Aftercare Tips for Dental Crowns
To ensure the longevity of your dental crowns, you should follow these aftercare tips:
- Brush and floss regularly, paying attention to the area around the crown.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods that may damage the crown or pull it off.
- Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth, as this can cause the crown to crack or break.
- Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings at Katy Smile Design to monitor the health of your crown and surrounding teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dental crowns painful?
No, the dental crown procedure is not painful. Your dentist will numb the area before starting the procedure so you won’t feel any pain.
How long do dental crowns last?
Dental crowns can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. The lifespan of your crown depends on factors such as the material used, the location of the crown, and your oral hygiene habits.
Can dental crowns fall off?
Dental crowns can sometimes fall off if they are not properly maintained or if the underlying tooth is damaged. However, this is rare and can be prevented by following good oral hygiene practices and scheduling regular checkups with your dentist.
Are dental crowns covered by insurance?
Dental crowns may be covered by dental insurance, depending on your plan and the reason for the crown. Be sure to check with your insurance provider to confirm your coverage.
A Safe and Effective Solution for a Confident Smile
Dental crowns are a safe and effective dental treatment that can restore your smile, protect your teeth, and improve oral health. If you’re considering dental crowns, schedule a consultation by calling (281) 396-4366 to determine if they’re the right choice for you. With proper care and maintenance, your dental crowns can last for many years, giving you a confident, healthy smile that you can be proud of.