Smiles are a powerful tool that can light up a room and are the first thing most people notice about us. Our smiles can leave a lasting impression on others; however, having dental issues and insecurities can make us self-conscious and struggle to smile. Being embarrassed by your smile is no way to live your life, and fortunately, there are solutions like restorative and cosmetic dentistry here in the Waco area. Dr. Chad Latino at Chad Latino DDS has several procedures to bring confidence back into your life, including that of dental crowns in Waco, Texas.
Dental crowns are an excellent option for those who need their smile restored but can’t do procedures like dental fillings due to the extent of their damaged tooth. In this blog post, we will go over what dental crowns are and how they can benefit you and your smile for years to come!
What are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps that Dr. Chad Latino will place over damaged or weakened teeth to restore their size, shape, and function. Dental crowns come from various materials, including porcelain, zirconia, or metal. Dental crowns are an excellent option for people with a weak, broken, or decayed tooth that cannot receive restoration using dental fillings or other restorations.
Are Dental Crowns Safe?
Dental crowns are generally considered safe for most patients. They are a commonly used dental restoration technique that has been well-tested, and dentists like Dr. Chad Latino swear by dental crowns in dentistry. Dental crowns can help protect a weak tooth from breaking, restore an already broken tooth, or cover and support a tooth with a large filling. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and complications. These could include:
- Infection
- Sensitivity
- The crown becoming loose or falling out
It’s always important to discuss any concerns with your dentist before proceeding with the procedure.
Who Can Get Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are suitable for many individuals, from children to adults. Patients who have weak, broken, or excessively worn teeth due to decay or injury often benefit from dental crowns. Also, individuals with a large cavity unsuitable for a filling or those who have undergone root canal treatment usually require a dental crown for the protection and reinforcement of the tooth. Furthermore, people seeking cosmetic dental improvement, such as covering misshaped or severely discolored teeth, may consider dental crowns.
However, potential crown candidates must have healthy gums and enough tooth structure to support the crown. As always, discuss with Dr. Chad Latino during your consultation to determine the most appropriate course of treatment.
How are Dental Crowns Placed?
Getting a dental crown takes two visits to Dr. Chad Latino’s office in Waco, Texas. The visit will, naturally, depend on your situation, but the overall way your visit will go for receiving a dental crown will include the following.
Visit Number One
During the first visit, Dr. Latino will prepare the tooth by reshaping it and making sure it can adequately support the crown. Once your tooth is prepared, Dr. Latino will take an impression of the tooth to create the custom-made crown. In the meantime, Dr. Latino will place a temporary over the prepared tooth.
Visit Number Two
During the second visit, Dr. Chad Latino will remove the temporary crown, and he will place your new dental crown over your tooth. He will ensure your dental crown fits entirely and comfortably and seal it with a special adhesive known as dental cement.
Caring for Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are durable and long-lasting, but they require proper care to maintain their integrity. Everyday tasks you can do from home to maintain and care for your dental crown include:
- Oral Hygiene: It is essential to maintain proper oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and rinsing regularly.
- Preventative Diet: It is also necessary to avoid chewing hard or sticky foods to prevent damage to the crown.
- Visiting Dr. Chad Latino: Regular visits to the dentist can help identify any issues with the crowns and prevent any further damage to the tooth. Schedule your bi-annual dental exam and cleaning to get the care necessary to maintain your smile!
The Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are an excellent option for restoring teeth and optimizing your smile. The benefits of dental crowns go beyond just improving your appearance; they can also strengthen and protect your teeth, restore tooth function, and provide long-lasting results. The benefits of dental crowns include:
1. Strengthens and protects teeth
Dental crowns provide a protective shield to your damaged or decayed tooth. Once the crown placement goes onto the tooth surface, it covers the entire tooth, preventing further damage and fracture. The crown also acts as a support structure, strengthening the tooth and allowing you to eat and chew as usual.
2. Improves tooth appearance
Crowns are not just functional but also cosmetic. Dental crowns can be customized to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, giving you a seamless smile. Crowns can also cover stains, chips, and other imperfections that may make you self-conscious about your teeth. With an improved smile, you can smile freely without worrying about what others may think of your smile. A restored smile is a restored sense of confidence and self-esteem!
3. Long-lasting results
Crowns last for years if they are well taken care of. With proper maintenance, such as practicing good oral care and visiting Dr. Chad Latino for your bi-annual regular dental exams and cleanings, your crowns can protect your teeth for up to 15 years.
4. Restores tooth function
Crowns can restore tooth function in cases where teeth have suffered internal damage, resulting in pain when biting or chewing. A crown can provide a comfortable biting surface and decrease sensitivity to cool or hot beverages.
5. Versatile application
Dental crowns fix various dental issues, including cosmetic and restorative procedures. Dental crowns can help to cover a discolored tooth, seal teeth that have received root canal treatments, and restore a broken tooth. Ultimately, dental crowns can help restore your smile in function as well as appearance, helping to bring functionality and confidence back into your life. Dental crowns are highly versatile and can be used to address a variety of dental issues, including:
- Restoring broken or worn teeth: Dental crowns can cover the entirety of a tooth, restoring it to its original size and shape.
- Protecting weak teeth: Dental crowns offer additional protection to weak or decayed teeth, reducing the risk of further damage.
- Supporting teeth with large fillings: When a tooth has a large filling, a dental crown can offer necessary support and prevent breakage.
- Aftercare for root canal treatment: Following a root canal treatment, dental crowns can protect the restored tooth.
- Cosmetic modification: Dental crowns can improve the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth. They can match the color of your natural teeth, providing a seamless look.
- Supporting dental bridges: Dental crowns anchor dental bridges, a solution for missing teeth.
Dental Crowns in Waco, TX
Dental crowns are an excellent option for people who want to restore their teeth and achieve a better smile. Are you ready to take the following steps towards repairing your smile and enhancing the appearance of your teeth? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Chad Latino today! Dental crowns are a popular and effective way to treat weakened and damaged teeth while maintaining your natural smile. With proper care, you can have a restored smile for years and have the confidence to smile in any setting that comes your way.
