ceramic crowns of human teeth closeup macro isolate on black background. The concept of aesthetic dentistryLike many adults, a lifelong smile may be one of your many goals you hope to accomplish, but keep in mind that the first step is to understand that preventive dentistry is the name of the game. Indeed, a large portion of this goal resides on your ability to attend routine checkups, pay mind to foods that are consumed, and practice excellent brushing and flossing at home. For others, however, restorative dentistry may need to play a bigger role in order to combat the effects of decay and infection. In today’s blog, your Cedar Rapids, IA dentist will look at a versatile restoration – the dental crown – and identify ways one might be needed to restore your grin.

To Promote Healthy Recovery

Oftentimes, the need for restorative dentistry branches from the damage caused by oral bacteria. These bacteria can lurk in smiles and wreak havoc on your gums, oral tissues, and especially the teeth themselves. Problems such as severe decay or even periodontal disease may arise, causing your healthy structures to deteriorate and weaken over time. In cases of moderate to severe decay, the infection can reach the sensitive inner dental pulp and nerves contained within a tooth, cause sharp pains and sensitivity. When this occurs, your dentist may provide a root canal procedure in order to remove the infection. To verify that the bacteria will not bother your tooth as it is healing, we will finish the process by placing a dental crown over the affected area in order to promote effective recovery. In this example, a cap serves as a sort of protective barrier to the structure, ensuring a healthy outcome.

Protection from Harmful Bacteria

Another instance in which a dental crown can be utilized in your restorative procedure is to protect your tooth from other harmful bacteria. After you have received a filling, for example, a crown can be placed atop the structure temporarily in order to prevent more bacteria from breaking down your tooth and causing your composite filling to fail. For more information about this process, contact our team today.

Preserving Your Natural Tooth

The last thing you or your dentist wants is for you to lose a natural structure. Adult teeth are very valuable in that they are considered permanent, meaning they will not grow back once gone. Additionally, your teeth help you fulfill a variety of functions including eating, biting, chewing, and even enunciating. Circumstances in which your tooth is in danger of loss, your dentist may utilize a crown to protect it and reinforce what remains of it.

Learn More

For more information about the versatility of a dental crown, contact Cedar Dental in Cedar Rapids, IA by calling 319-364-7108 to schedule your appointment with our team today.