If you have any imperfections in your smile, you may wonder how to permanently correct them. Since dental crowns can restore the function and appearance of your teeth, you might consider getting them from a professional dentist. Here's what to know about crowns and their benefits. 

What Are Dental Crowns?

Crowns, also known as caps, are coverings that fit over and bind to the teeth. They are often made from porcelain, resin, or ceramics and resemble the shape, color, and size of natural teeth. Though traditional crowns typically cover the entire tooth, onlays and 3/4 crowns are variations that do not cover as much surface area and are usually applied to natural teeth that have a stronger structure. 

Who Needs Them?

Dental crowns are often necessary following root canal procedures, which involve drilling through teeth to remove infected pulp. Since this may result in loss of tooth structure, dentists can reshape the affected teeth and fit crowns over them. 

Crowns are also an effective solution for correcting teeth that have become damaged. If you have any cracked, broken, or worn teeth, a dentist can cover them with crowns, which may hold the natural tooth structure together and prevent damage from becoming worse. Crowns can also correct any misshapen, discolored, or stained teeth.

What Does the Procedure Entail?

Your dentist will provide an oral exam and take X-rays to examine your teeth. In the event of infections or abscesses, they will drill out the infected portion. They'll reshape any teeth that require crowns by buffing them down to create a smooth, round surface. They may use filling material so the tooth can support and provide a strong foundation for crowns. 

Next, they'll use scanners to create digital impressions of your teeth and high-tech milling machines to generate crowns that match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth. This may be completed in-office, during the same appointment. Your dentist will use dental cement to bind the crowns to the prepared tooth surfaces.

What Are the Advantages?

Crowns enhance the appearance of teeth, giving you a more beautiful smile. Caps also restore the structure of teeth and make them stronger, which can improve your ability to chew foods and speak with clarity. The procedure is non-invasive and does not require surgery, anesthesia, or sedation. It is quick, and since there is no recovery time, you may immediately get back to your usual activities. 

If you need dental crowns, get in touch with Spring Branch Dental Care. Dr. Chavez has been a dentist for over 25 years and has served North San Antonio, Comal County, and the surrounding areas of Texas for the past 16 years. Call (830) 438-7444 to book an appointment for general, cosmetic, or restorative dentistry, and visit the website to learn more about how they can improve your smile.