You may not be amazed that dental crowns, or caps, are an old concept, but would it surprise you to learn that gold restorations were used by Etruscans as early as 700 BC? Thanks to human industriousness, or as testament to the severity of oral discomfort, our ancestors manufactured dental appliances with exceptional skill. Today, Waco dentist Dr. Corbet Locke carries on the tradition of exceptional dental restorations.
More Like a Helmet
Similar to a helmet, a dental crown protects a tooth that needs reinforcement. As a cosmetic solution, a crown can cover a tooth that is discolored, chipped, cracked, or misshapen. More specifically, a crown might be needed in the following situations:
- To protect a tooth that has been weakened by decay, or to hold together the parts of a cracked tooth.
- To restore a tooth that is severely worn down or broken.
- To protect remaining tooth structure after a large filling has been placed.
- To cap a dental implant.
Proper Care of Dental Crowns
Caring for your dental crown is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Although the crown protects your tooth from structural damage, it cannot protect the tissue underneath it from bacterial infection, tooth decay, or gum disease. Plaque can collect at the base of the crown, so brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice daily is important. Unless Dr. Locke advises more frequent visits, schedule and attend a dental checkup and cleaning at least once every six months. Detecting signs of infection and disease early may spare you from requiring additional dental work.
Is a Crown Right For You?
Depending on the severity of damage to your tooth, a dental crown may not be required, or it may not suffice. If you are interested in dental crowns as a cosmetic option, there may be a more fitting solution for your needs. Dr. Locke will conduct a comprehensive examination to determine if a dental crown is the right choice for you. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Locke, call our Waco dental office at (254) 776-4888. We welcome patients from Waco, Woodway, McGregor, Hewitt, and surrounding communities.