What Are Dental Crowns?

Do you have a tooth that is decayed or cracked? Is it painful, or does it have multiple fillings? Your tooth may be a candidate for a dental crown from West Jordan, UT dentist, Dr. Darrell Osterhoudt. He offers crowns as a great option for preserving the strength, function and appearance of your smile for years.

The Details on Dental Crowns

A dental crown, or cap, is a restoration which covers and supports the healthy part of a damaged tooth. It begins at the gum line and extends to the top of the tooth, giving it durability and natural appearance. Many crowns are made from all-porcelain or porcelain fused to metal (PFM), depending on where the tooth is located and on the patient's preference and budget.

A versatile restoration, a dental crown also may be used to complete a dental implant or to anchor fixed bridgework. A dental crown usually finishes a root canal procedure in which a tooth's infected pulp is removed.

Your West Jordan dentist carefully evaluates a tooth before recommending crown placement. He does this with visual inspection and digital X-rays. Then, he devises a treatment plan individualized to patient need.

The Placement Procedure

First, the dentist takes an oral impression so the dental lab creates a crown with an accurate shape, fit and bite with the opposing arch of teeth. Then, he prepares the tooth to receive the crown by removing the damaged enamel and any filling material.

He shapes the tooth to receive the restoration, and he places a temporary to cover the tooth while the crown is made. A conventional crown takes one week or so to return from the outside dental lab.

When the crown is ready, Dr. Osterhoudt removes the temporary and cements the restoration in place. He checks the color, fit and bite to ensure that they are just perfect, and the treatment is complete.

Caring for a Crown

Dental crowns can last many years with proper care. The key to their longevity are:

• Twice daily brushing and once a day flossing
• Wearing a customized mouth guard if night time teeth grinding is a problem
• Avoiding extra hard foods such as taffy and ice cubes
• Getting semi-annual check-ups and cleanings at Salt Lake Smiles

Preserve Your Smile

Find out more about dental crowns by contacting Dr. Osterhoudt for a consultation. If you are a candidate for this restoration, he will carefully explain your options and the entire process. Call (801) 568-0172 for an appointment in West Jordan, UT.