Your tooth structure can be compromised due to several reasons, like decay, trauma, or gum disease. This can lead to poor oral function, like mastication and an unaesthetic appearance. However, Cosmetic dentistry in Houston, TX, can help restore and rebuild the lost tooth structure using dental crowns.
Of all the types of dental crowns, porcelain crowns are the most preferred since they are aesthetically superior, in addition to being durable.
What are porcelain crowns?
Porcelain crowns are tooth-colored caps or coverings that encase a damaged or decayed tooth snugly to help restore it to its original shape and size. It helps protect and strengthen the teeth that cannot be restored with regular fillings. Porcelain crowns are customized according to the shape, size, and color of the natural teeth. These durable restorations halt the disease progression and prevent further damage to the tooth by completely sealing it.
Exploring uses of porcelain crowns
- To restore broken or fractured teeth
- To restore those teeth that are visible when you smile (for cosmetic concerns)
- To aesthetically enhance your facial profile
- To restore badly decayed teeth
- To replace large fillings that are prone to frequent fractures
- To cover teeth that have undergone root canal therapy
The procedure involved in fabricating porcelain crowns
During your first visit
Your dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the affected tooth if it is severely damaged and sensitive to help ease pain and discomfort. The decayed portion will then be carefully excavated, and the tooth surface will be cleaned. If the decay involves the pulp (the innermost layer of the tooth consisting of blood vessels and nerve endings), your dentist will perform root canal therapy to remove the pulp tissue and clean the root canals. The tooth is later trimmed or cut using dental burs to give a specific shape so the crown can provide an accurate fit. Several full-mouth impressions will be recorded as a base for the dental technician to fabricate the crown following the other natural teeth and the bite. A temporary crown will be placed until the permanent crown is fabricated.
During the second visit
Your dentist will remove the temporary crown carefully, clean the prepared tooth, and place the permanent porcelain crown. The crown will be evaluated to provide proper occlusion, and necessary adjustments will be made if there are high points.
Final thought
Porcelain crowns are excellent and durable dental restorations that help preserve your natural tooth structure. In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, these restorations also provide stain and fracture resistance. These caps greatly reduce your need for extractions and improve your overall oral health and well-being.
