What is a dental crown and why do I need?

Dental crowns are used to restore and strengthen damaged or weakened teeth. Here are several reasons why you might need a dental crown:

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1. **Protection for a Weak Tooth**: If a tooth has been weakened by extensive decay, large fillings, or a root canal procedure, a dental crown can provide support and protection by covering the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gumline.

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2. **Restoration of a Broken or Fractured Tooth**: Dental crowns can be used to repair teeth that are cracked, fractured, or otherwise damaged due to trauma or injury. The crown helps to hold the tooth together and prevent further damage.

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3. **Covering a Large Filling**: When a tooth has a large filling, especially if it's deteriorating or has recurrent decay around it, a dental crown can provide additional support and protection, reducing the risk of fracture and the need for further dental work.

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4. **Improvement of Aesthetics**: Dental crowns can also be used for cosmetic purposes to improve the appearance of misshapen, discolored, or poorly aligned teeth. Crowns can be made from materials such as porcelain or ceramic, which closely resemble natural tooth enamel and can be customized to match the color and shape of your existing teeth.

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5. **Support for Dental Bridges**: Dental crowns are often used to support dental bridges, which replace missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth (pontics) to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants.

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6. **Protection of a Tooth After Root Canal Treatment**: Following root canal therapy, a tooth may become more brittle and prone to fracture. A dental crown can be placed over the treated tooth to provide strength and protection, restoring its function and appearance.

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Think of a dental crown like a protective helmet for your tooth. Just as a helmet shields your head from impacts and injuries, a dental crown covers and protects a weakened or damaged tooth, helping to prevent further damage and maintain its structural integrity. It's like giving your tooth a sturdy armor, ensuring that it can withstand the daily wear and tear of chewing and biting without breaking or fracturing. So, when your dentist recommends a dental crown, they're essentially suggesting a protective shield to keep your tooth safe and strong.

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Broken tooth? Get your crown today at Dear Dental.

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