Dental crowns often play a pivotal role in restorative dentistry, offering both function and aesthetics for damaged or decayed teeth. At Sandy Springs Cosmetic & General Dentistry, Dr. Maria Benefield and her team specialize in creating custom dental crowns that seamlessly blend with your natural teeth. By understanding the process involved, you can make informed decisions about your dental health.
Process of Getting a Dental Crown
Initial Consultation
Your journey toward a perfect smile begins with an initial consultation at Sandy Springs Cosmetic & General Dentistry. During this visit, Dr. Maria Benefield examines your teeth, discusses your goals, and determines the best type of crown for your needs. She also addresses any questions or concerns you may have.
Tooth Preparation
To prepare your tooth for a crown, Dr. Benefield will remove any decay and shape the tooth to make room for the crown. This process often involves reshaping the tooth structure. She then takes an impression of your tooth, sending it to the dental lab to create your custom crown.
Temporary Crown Placement
While your permanent crown is being fabricated, Dr. Benefield places a temporary crown to protect your prepared tooth. This temporary crown helps you to eat and speak comfortably. It’s crucial to take care of the temporary crown to avoid any issues while waiting for the permanent one.
Permanent Crown Placement
Once your custom crown arrives, Dr. Benefield removes the temporary crown and checks the fit and color of the permanent one. She then cements the crown in place, ensuring it fits securely and matches the adjacent teeth. This final step helps restore your tooth’s functionality and appearance.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Restoring Tooth Functionality
Dental crowns could effectively restore tooth functionality, allowing you to chew and bite without discomfort. They provide a protective layer, preventing further damage to the underlying tooth structure. This restoration helps you maintain a healthy, functional bite.
Enhancing Aesthetics
In addition to restoring function, dental crowns could significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal of your smile. Custom-made crowns can match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, creating a harmonious appearance. Dr. Benefield’s expertise ensures that your crowns improve both the look and health of your teeth.
Providing Long-Term Solution
Dental crowns offer a durable, long-term solution for damaged teeth. With proper care, crowns can last many years, providing stability and strength. Regular visits to Sandy Springs Cosmetic & General Dentistry contribute to the longevity of your crowns, ensuring they remain in top condition.
Post-Crown Care
Oral Hygiene Practices
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene practices remains essential after receiving a dental crown. Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily prevent plaque buildup around the crown. These practices help maintain your crown and overall dental health.
Regular Dental Check-ups
Regular dental check-ups with Dr. Maria Benefield ensure the continued health of your crown and surrounding teeth. During these visits, Dr. Benefield examines the integrity of the crown, checks for potential issues, and provides professional cleanings. Regular check-ups play a crucial role in maintaining your oral health.
Handling Dental Emergencies
If you experience any issues with your crown, such as it becoming loose or damaged, contact Sandy Springs Cosmetic & General Dentistry immediately. Dr. Benefield’s team promptly addresses dental emergencies, providing necessary adjustments or repairs. Quick action could prevent further complications and maintain the health of your crown.
Conclusion
Dental crowns could offer a reliable, aesthetically pleasing solution for damaged or decayed teeth. At Sandy Springs Cosmetic & General Dentistry, Dr. Maria Benefield provides expert care, ensuring your crowns meet both functional and aesthetic needs.