If you have tooth damage or severe staining, you can feel self-conscious about your smile. This can lead you to smile less and appear less friendly to others. Aside from the cosmetic issues of damaged teeth, there is also the aspect of being unable to properly chew your food and to speak as you would like. In times past, these issues could only be corrected through pulling the tooth and using a partial. Today, crowns can cover up a damaged or stained tooth, making it look beautiful and improving its strength so that further damage is avoided.
When going in for a crown procedure, your dentist will first carefully examine your tooth and will most likely X-ray it as well. This will help him or her to be able to tell if there is too much structural damage in the tooth and if you will be able to have a crown or not. Once it has been decided that you are a good candidate for a crown, the dentist will begin to shape your existing tooth, removing any crumbling pieces, to not only improve the integrity of the tooth but also to round the corners so that the crown will fit snugly.
Once your tooth has been shaped, the dentist will carefully place the crown over your tooth, to make sure that it fits correctly. Once he or she is sure that the crown fits, the dentist will apply a special adhesive compound to your tooth. This adhesive will help the crown to bond to the tooth so that is stays as long as possible and does not come undone when you are eating or talking.
Most dental insurance companies cover at least a portion of the expense of having a crown. If you are in need of a crown, you can contact your insurance company and find out what portion of the procedure is covered. This will assist you in planning to have your crown put into place.
With proper care, a crown can last for many years. It is important that you care for your crown and follow your dentist’s advice. If you are ready to have your tooth repaired, contact Larry I Gottlieb DDS and they can assist you.