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A dental crown is a customized prosthetic cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth by the dentist in Nashville, TN, to restore its function, strength, and aesthetics. Crafted from materials like porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination, crowns encase the visible portion of the tooth, providing protection and support. They address various dental issues, including severe decay, fractures, large fillings, root canal-treated teeth, and cosmetic imperfections. Dental crowns offer numerous benefits, such as reinforcing weakened teeth, preventing further decay or damage, restoring proper bite alignment, and enhancing smile aesthetics. By mimicking the appearance of natural teeth, crowns seamlessly blend with the smile, providing both functional and aesthetic improvements. Dental crowns' durability and versatility are vital in preserving oral health, restoring confidence, and ensuring long-lasting smile transformations.

Suitable Candidate of Dental Crowns

• Individuals with teeth that are extensively decayed and cannot be effectively treated with fillings.

• Patients with cracked or fractured teeth due to injury or trauma.

• People with large fillings that compromise the structural integrity of the tooth.

• For those who have undergone root canal therapy, crowns provide additional strength and protection to treated teeth.

• Individuals with worn-down teeth are often caused by grinding (bruxism) or other factors that require restoration and reinforcement.

• Patients seek cosmetic enhancements for discolored, misshapen teeth or otherwise aesthetically compromised.

• Individuals in need of support for dental bridges, as crowns can serve as anchors for the bridge structure.

• For those undergoing dental implant treatment, crowns are often placed on implants to replace missing teeth.

• Patients with weak teeth due to decay, large fillings, or structural abnormalities require additional support and protection.

• Individuals are seeking to restore proper bite alignment and functionality to their teeth.

The Dental Crown Procedure

The dental crown procedure is a multi-step process that involves careful planning, preparation, and placement to restore the function and appearance of a damaged tooth. It typically begins with an initial consultation, during which the dentist examines the tooth and discusses treatment options with the patient. If a dental crown is deemed necessary, the procedure moves forward with tooth preparation.

Tooth preparation is a crucial step in the dental crown procedure. The dentist at Gorham & Ammarell Dentistry administers local anesthesia to ensure the patient's comfort before reshaping the tooth to accommodate the crown. This involves removing any decayed or damaged tissue and shaping the tooth to create space for the crown to fit properly. The amount of tooth structure removed depends on the extent of damage and the type of crown being placed.

Once the tooth is prepared, impressions are taken to create a custom-made crown that fits snugly over the prepared tooth. Traditional putty impressions or digital scans may capture the necessary details of the tooth and surrounding teeth. These impressions are sent to a dental laboratory, where skilled technicians fabricate the permanent crown.

In the meantime, a temporary crown may be placed over the prepared tooth to protect it while the permanent crown is being made. The temporary crown is typically made from acrylic or stainless steel and is cemented in place using temporary cement. While temporary crowns provide protection and maintain aesthetics, they are less durable and long-lasting than permanent crowns.

Once the permanent crown is ready, the patient returns to the dentist for final placement. The temporary crown is removed, and the prepared tooth is thoroughly cleaned and dried. The permanent crown is then carefully fitted over the tooth and checked for proper fit and bite alignment. Any necessary adjustments are made to ensure the crown feels comfortable and functions correctly.

Finally, the permanent crown is cemented into place using dental adhesive or cement. Once the cement has set, the crown is polished to blend seamlessly with the surrounding teeth. With proper care and maintenance, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, dental crowns can provide long-lasting protection and restoration for damaged or decayed teeth, allowing patients to enjoy a healthy and beautiful smile for years. Contact us today!

The Smile Transformation: Benefits of Dental Crowns

• Crowns in Nashville, TN, strengthen and stabilize weakened or damaged teeth, allowing you to bite, chew, and speak confidently.

• Designed to match your natural teeth' color, shape, and size, crowns seamlessly blend into your smile, restoring its beauty and symmetry.

• Encasing the tooth, crowns protect it from further decay, fractures, and damage, preserving its longevity and reducing the need for future interventions.

• Restoring decayed or damaged teeth with crowns promotes better oral hygiene. It eliminates hiding spots for bacteria and plaque, reducing the risk of future dental problems.

• A dazzling smile can work wonders for your self-esteem and overall well-being, empowering you to smile, laugh, and engage with others without reservation.

Dental crowns are an effective and versatile solution for various dental problems, from severe decay to cosmetic enhancements. If you're ready to reclaim your smile's strength, beauty, and functionality with a dental crown, visit Gorham & Ammarell Dentistry at 124 30th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37203, or call (615) 327-4914 to book your appointment! Our experienced team will assess your dental needs and guide you through the process with care and expertise.