Am I a good candidate for a dental crown?

A dental crown is one of the most commonly used restorative options. Good candidates for a dental crown may include patients with: 

• A tooth damaged by decay
• A cracked tooth
• A weakened tooth
• A misshapen or discolored tooth
• A broken or worn tooth
• A dental implant

What is a dental crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-like “cap” that a dentist fits over a natural tooth or dental implant. By placing a dental crown over a damaged tooth, dentists repair the tooth’s structure and restore the patient’s chewing function. Furthermore, the crown looks like a natural tooth, so patients can continue to smile with comfort and confidence.

What are the different types of dental crowns?

Dental professionals can make crowns from several materials. At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, we offer:

• All Ceramic: This is the most common type of dental crown. Our dentist color-matches the metal-free crown to the patient’s surrounding teeth for a natural appearance. 
• Metal: Although metal crowns are the strongest, longest-lasting option, their metallic appearance makes them a less desirable option than other crowns. However, many patients can use metal crowns to restore back teeth that aren’t visible when they smile.
• Porcelain-fused-to-metal: These crowns are stronger than all-ceramic crowns. The metal base is hidden by tooth-colored porcelain. However, the porcelain might wear away over time to reveal the metal underneath.
• Zirconia: Zirconia crowns are biocompatible, natural-looking, and stronger than porcelain or ceramic. Therefore, they are one of the best metal-free restorative options available to patients today.

What is a dental crown procedure like?

First, Dr. Bridges will need to examine the patient’s teeth and gums to determine if a dental crown is necessary. He may also need to take some x-rays to confirm his diagnosis. If Dr. Bridges decides that a patient needs a dental crown, then patients can expect the following:

• Local anesthesia: Dr. Bridges prioritizes his patients’ comfort. That’s why he’ll administer a local anesthesia to numb the tooth and gums for the procedure.
• Shaping: Dr. Bridges carefully prepares the damaged tooth before shaping the tooth. Once the tooth is prepared, Dr. Bridges will shape the tooth to accommodate the placement of the dental crown.
• Impressions: Dr. Bridges will need to take impressions of the patient’s mouth after he shapes the tooth. Then, he will send the impression to a dental lab where the final crown will be made.
• Temporary crown: To protect the tooth while the final crown is being made, Dr. Bridges fits his patients with a temporary crown.
• Final crown: Once the lab finishes the crown, we will schedule an appointment for Dr. Bridges to fit the patient with their crown. At this appointment, Dr. Bridges will make any necessary adjustments before cementing the crown into place.

Bray Dentist Near Me

If you have a damaged, decayed, or worn-down tooth, then it’s time to contact our Bray dentist. Dr. Bridges and his caring team can restore your function and confidence with a quality dental crown. Not sure if you need a crown? Give us a call at (580) 255-4880 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.

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1. The family dentist is only for families.

Family dentists serve not only families but individuals of all ages. Many family dentists perform a variety of dental services, including:

• Preventative Dentistry: People are strongly encouraged to visit the dentist for a checkup and professional cleaning every six months. During preventive visits, a dental hygienist removes tartar. Also, a dentist examines the mouth for signs of developing cavities, periodontal (gum) disease, oral cancer, and other ailments in the mouth and surrounding structures.
• Restorative Dentistry: Family dentists can remove severely damaged or decayed dental tissue or teeth. After removal, they can replace teeth with natural-looking and high-functioning substitutions.
• Cosmetic Dentistry: If your smile is anything but perfect, a family dentist can whiten, reshape, or construct a brand-new, optimized smile.

2. Baby teeth don’t need as much care as adult teeth.

Even though baby teeth fall out over time, they are still essential for a child’s growth and development. Young children use their teeth just like adults do. Strong, healthy teeth help every man, woman, and child:

• Chew coarse or crunchy foods
• Digest food
• Speak clearly with others
• Express emotions
• Maintain a sense of self-worth

3. My oral health only affects the mouth.

The definition of “oral” means “by the mouth,” so many people associate oral health with mouth health. However, oral health is vital to comprehensive health, well-being, and quality of life. The link between oral and systemic health is becoming increasingly evident and recognized globally. 

Our mouths are complex ecosystems that house many species of bacteria that compete for space. When oral bacteria is balanced, the mouth is healthy, and there are no signs of infection. However, when bacteria flourishes, it can lead to gum disease (an inflammatory response that can dramatically decrease the quality of life). Furthermore, Mayo Clinic staff believe that inflammation may be to blame for causing: 

• Cardiovascular disease
• Respiratory diseases
• Pregnancy and birth complications

4. The only reason to visit the dentist is if there is a problem.

As previously mentioned, oral health impacts overall health, and patients are encouraged to visit the dentist at least twice per year. The most efficient way to take care of your teeth, gums, and mouth is to visit the dentist for preventive treatment before issues arise. Preventative visits can help prevent a cavity or periodontal disease from developing, which could potentially: 

• Prevent intensive treatment, such as a root canal
• Reverse gum disease
• Save a tooth from permanent loss

Find a Family Dentist Near Bray, OK

Are you interested in learning more about the best practices for oral hygiene, disease prevention, and more? At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, Dr. Matthew L. Bridges helps patients in Bray, OK, and surrounding cities manage their oral health and the appearance of their smiles. Schedule your next dental appointment with us by calling 580-255-4880 or messaging us online at your earliest convenience.

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