If you have chipped, cracked or otherwise recently damaged teeth, having porcelain crowns installed by a dental professional is definitely an option you should consider. Dental crowns (also known as dental caps) are less invasive than other restorative options because they don’t require having the entirety of the tooth extracted from your mouth. This also means there is a shorter recovery period and you will be back to your normal routine in less time.
What Issues Can a Dental Crown Fix?
Dental crowns are ideal for situations where the tooth is significantly damaged and weakened. Our family dentist in Mundelein recommends dental crowns to patients who have chipped teeth, cracked teeth, or teeth damaged by tooth decay. Dental crowns help restore the full functionality of the tooth along with providing protection and strengthening it.
Who is a Good Candidate for a Dental Crown?
It is essential that a person be in generally good oral health in order to receive a dental crown. In order to confirm a patient’s candidacy, our family dentists in Mundelein and Highland Park will conduct a full oral exam. We will consult the patient regarding their dental habits and assess the health of their teeth and gums. If it’s determined that a crown is not right for you, we’ll help you find the right solution for your tooth.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Many patients ask us how long they can expect their dental crown to last. In most cases, a porcelain dental crown will last at least 15 years. There are several factors which can improve (or even double) the lifespan of your crown:
- Good dental hygiene. The biggest factor in your long-term dental health, including the continued success of your crown, is a great care regime. Brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist twice per year will contribute to a long lifespan for your crown.
- Curbing bad habits. Many people struggle with the symptoms of bruxism, including grinding or clenching teeth. This is one example of a habit that can negatively impact your crown, along with the rest of your natural teeth. Work with your dentist to address any harmful routines which might lead to early crown replacement.
- Materials used. Most modern dentists and patients prefer the look and feel of porcelain dental crowns, but they are not quite as durable as metal. Metal dental caps may outlast crowns made from other materials.
My Dental Crown is Loose or Has Fallen Out. What Do I Do?
Dental crowns are very carefully adhered to the surface of the tooth using a special dental cement. In some cases, dental crowns come loose after an accident, or because the patient’s bite pattern has shifted with time. If this happens to you, don’t panic! Grab your crown and put it somewhere safe. Contact your dentist for an appointment and personalized instructions. We may recommend avoiding difficult-to-chew foods, using dental wax to protect the area, and/or taking over-the-counter medicines to manage any discomfort.
Our Family Dentist in Mundelein and Highland Park
Our team at North Suburban Dental has more than four decades of experience in providing exactly these services to patients in the Mundelein and Highland Park, IL, areas. We have cultivated a stellar reputation for helping those who need their smiles repaired regain their confidence in record time, all within a friendly office atmosphere that makes them feel like they are a part of the North Suburban family.
Contact Us
If you think you may be a good candidate and want to explore the option of receiving a dental crown for your damaged teeth, contact our Mundelein or Highland Park office staff at your earliest convenience to set up an appointment.
