Dental crowns, also known as tooth caps or dental caps, are custom-made prosthetic devices that are placed over damaged or decayed teeth to restore their shape, size, strength, and functionality. This general dentistry procedure provides a protective covering for the natural tooth structure while improving the tooth’s appearance.
Made from a variety of materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal alloy (like gold), or a combination of these materials, dental crowns in Morristown, NJ, are designed to closely match the shape, color, and texture of your existing teeth. This ensures a seamless blend with your natural smile. Schedule an appointment today to see how crowns can transform both your smile and overall oral health!
The Procedure for Getting a Dental Crown
Getting a dental crown is a straightforward procedure that can help restore the function and appearance of your damaged tooth. Here's what you can expect during the process:
- Consultation: The first step is to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Morristown, NJ, for a consultation. They will examine your tooth and determine whether a dental crown is necessary.
- Tooth preparation: If it's decided that you need a dental crown, the next step involves preparing your tooth. The dentist will remove any decay or old fillings from the affected tooth.
- Impression: Once your tooth is prepared, an impression of it will be taken using putty-like material or digital scanning technology. This impression will serve as a model for creating your custom-made crown.
- Temporary crown placement: While waiting for the permanent crown to be fabricated in a dental laboratory (which usually takes about two weeks), our dentist in Morristown, NJ, may place a temporary crown over your prepared tooth to protect it.
- Crown fitting and bonding: When your permanent crown is ready, you'll return to our dental office for its placement. The dentist will check its fit and make any necessary adjustments before permanently bonding it to your natural tooth using special adhesive cement.
- Follow-up visit: After getting your dental crown, you may need to schedule another appointment to ensure proper alignment and bite functionality.
Remember, every case may have slight variations depending on factors such as individual patient needs and preferences, but this general overview should give you an idea of what undergoing a dental crown procedure entails.
The Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns in Morristown, NJ, can provide numerous benefits for individuals dealing with damaged or decayed teeth.
Natural-Looking
One major advantage of crowns is that they offer a natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing solution to restore the appearance of your smile. Whether you have discolored, misshapen, or cracked teeth, dental crowns can help improve their overall look.
Enhanced Functionality
Another benefit is that dental crowns can enhance the functionality of your teeth. If you have weak or brittle teeth, crowning them can provide added strength and durability, allowing you to eat and chew comfortably without any discomfort.
Protection
Moreover, dental crowns in Morristown, NJ, act as a protective barrier for your weakened tooth structure. They prevent further damage and decay by covering the entire tooth surface above the gumline. This ensures that your tooth remains protected from external factors such as bacteria and plaque buildup.
Quick Procedure
Additionally, getting dental crowns is relatively quick and straightforward compared to other restorative options like implants or bridges. The procedure usually takes only two visits to complete, saving you time while still achieving excellent results.
Long-Lasting Solution
Dental crowns in Morristown, NJ, are long-lasting solutions that can withstand daily wear and tear. With proper care and maintenance, they can last for many years before requiring replacement.
Aftercare and Maintenance Tips for Dental Crowns
Caring for your dental crowns is essential to ensure their longevity and maintain good oral health. Here are some aftercare tips to help you take care of your dental crowns in Morristown, NJ:
- Brush and floss regularly: Just like natural teeth, it's important to brush your dental crowns at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Flossing should also be included in your daily oral hygiene routine.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods: While dental crowns are durable, they can still be prone to damage. To prevent any potential issues, try to avoid biting into hard items such as ice or chewing on sticky candies that could dislodge or chip the crown.
- Wear a mouthguard during physical activities: If you participate in sports or engage in activities that may pose a risk of impact to your mouth, wearing a mouthguard can provide an added layer of protection for both your natural teeth and dental crowns.
- Regular check-ups with the dentist: It's crucial to schedule regular visits with our dentist in Morristown, NJ, so they can monitor the condition of your dental crown(s) and make any necessary adjustments if needed.
- Practice good overall oral hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene habits not only benefits the longevity of your dental crowns but also promotes overall oral health. This includes eating a balanced diet, limiting sugary snacks and beverages, quitting smoking (if applicable), and consuming alcohol in moderation.
By following these simple aftercare tips, you can help ensure that your dental crowns remain strong, functional, and aesthetically pleasing for years to come.
Experience top-tier oral care at Morristown Oral Surgery & Implantology Associates. Our dedicated team at 290 Madison Avenue, Ste 1A, Morristown, NJ 07960, is committed to providing you with exceptional care and transformative dental solutions. Contact us at (973) 538-5338 to schedule your appointment and discover the path to a healthier, happier smile.
