Everything You Need to Know about Dental Crowns in Torrance

If you have an aching or damaged tooth, your dentist may recommend a dental crown. This is a common restorative procedure that can help rescue the tooth and allow you to enjoy better oral health without any pain. There are a few things to learn about dental crowns, so keep reading to find out what you need to know about this procedure.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a thin, tooth-shaped restoration that can be bonded directly over a damaged tooth. The crown may be made from one of a variety of materials, from dental porcelain/ceramic to metal alloys or gold. The material that is right for your tooth will depend on where in the mouth the tooth is located, your budget, and your preference.

What Is a Dental Crown Used for?

Your dentist may recommend a dental crown in the following situations:

• To hold together a broken tooth
• For large areas of decay when there is not enough healthy tooth enamel to support a filling
• To restore strength to a weak or worn tooth
• To make cosmetic improvements to severely damaged teeth
• As the final step in a root canal procedure
• To replace a missing tooth (when supported by a dental implant)

How Long Do Crowns Last?

A dental crown can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. Of course, no restoration will last forever. When everything goes as it should, you can expect the restoration to stay healthy and sturdy for 20 years or even longer. The crown itself will not decay, but it may become damaged, worn down, or need to be adjusted due to changes that naturally occur in the mouth over time.

How Do I Care for a Crown?

To ensure that your crown lasts for as long as possible, maintain excellent oral hygiene practices and visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

It is not too difficult to clean your new crown. Brush and floss your teeth as normal, concentrating on the area at the base of the restoration to prevent plaque and bacteria buildup. You may want to invest in an interdental cleaner to get this area thoroughly clean. Your dental hygienist can show you how to use this tool when you get your crown.

If your crown is located in the front of the smile, it is important that you avoid habits like nail biting, chewing on pens, and biting directly into hard or chewy foods.

A dental crown is a common treatment for aching or damaged teeth — and if you’re getting one, that’s actually good news! It means your tooth can be rescued by quality restorative dentistry.

Meet the Practice

Blue Coast Dental Group offers comprehensive dental care for local friends and neighbors. To learn more about dental crowns or to schedule an appointment for high-quality restorative dentistry, you are invited to contact your dentist in Torrance at 310-424-3100.