Dental Crowns in Schaumburg, IL
Dental crowns are one of the most versatile tools in restorative dentistry. Whether protecting a damaged tooth to restore its function or replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant, crowns are a dependable option. Ceramic crowns, in particular, boast a 95% success rate over 15 years. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, our experienced team, led by Dr. Aristodemo, specializes in the precise placement of dental crowns.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are protective caps that cover damaged teeth, preventing further harm and restoring their look and functionality. Crowns are perfect for safeguarding weak teeth, especially after a root canal treatment. They can also be used with a dental implant, a mini dental implant, or a traditional dental bridge to help replace missing teeth.
For the crown to fit perfectly over a damaged tooth, Dr. Aristodemo will shave down some of the tooth’s enamel. This changes the natural tooth structure, meaning that the dental crown procedure is not reversible as enamel doesn’t regenerate like other tissues. However, with good oral hygiene, your new crown will last 15-20 years or more, offering a long-term solution for dental restoration.
Dental crowns come with several oral health benefits:
- Improved aesthetics: Crowns protect your teeth and significantly improve their appearance by restoring the tooth’s structure. They can effectively conceal stains or discolorations, offering a restorative solution that also enhances your smile.
- Restored functionality: The impact of a damaged or missing tooth on your daily activities can be profound, affecting your ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently. A dental crown can swiftly restore these capabilities, allowing you to enjoy life without limitations.
- Long-term protection: Given that tooth enamel cannot repair itself, a damaged tooth requires external protection to prevent further deterioration. A crown restores a tooth to its original shape and protects against future damage for years to come.
Implant-Supported Crowns for Missing Teeth
Dental crowns aren’t limited to protecting damaged teeth; they can also replace missing teeth. When crowns are attached to dental implants, they can fill in the gaps in your smile. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are secured directly in your jawbone. With an implant-supported crown, you’ll enjoy restored chewing and speaking abilities and gain additional oral health benefits from the implants themselves.
Replacing a missing tooth is crucial for long-term oral health. First, the implant and crown prevent your remaining teeth from shifting into the empty space. This maintains your teeth’s alignment, preserving your bite. Second, unlike other restorative treatments, a dental implant stimulates the jawbone when you bite and chew, just like natural tooth roots. This process prevents the deterioration of bone and tissue density that occurs naturally when teeth are lost. Not only will your smile look great, but you’ll also preserve your facial structure because you won’t lose jawbone volume.
The Process of Getting Crowns
The process of getting a dental crown differs depending on whether you need a traditional or implant-supported crown, but both begin with an initial consultation.
- Consultation: At your initial visit, Dr. Aristodemo will examine your teeth, take X-rays, and discuss your needs, preferences, and budget. If a mini dental implant is part of your plan, our digital X-rays help us pinpoint the precise placement of the implant.
- Procedure and temporary restoration: For a traditional crown, we start by removing some enamel so the cap fits perfectly. Then, we’ll take impressions of your mouth so that the dental lab can craft your custom crown. We will place a temporary crown to protect your tooth while you wait. For an implant-supported crown, Dr. Aristodemo will drill a small pilot hole through the gums and screw the implant into the jawbone. She’ll attach a temporary crown, ensuring you maintain a complete smile even as your custom restoration is being made.
- Final restoration: Once the final restoration is ready, typically within two to three weeks, we’ll remove the temporary one and attach your custom-made crown. Dr. Aristodemo will ensure the crown is securely fitted and that your bite is aligned correctly, guaranteeing comfort and optimal functionality.
Restore Your Smile Today
Are you ready to restore your smile, enhance your ability to eat and speak, and boost your self-confidence? If so, it’s time to consider a dental crown. Dr. Aristodemo and the Happy Smiles Family Dentistry team are eager to guide you through the process. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn whether dental crowns are right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dental crowns can be made from a variety of materials. The cost of your crown will depend on the type you choose. Additional treatments, such as procedures to fill cavities or address gum disease, will also affect the overall price. The most effective way to understand your needs and options is by consulting with Dr. Aristodemo. She will assess your situation and provide a professional recommendation on the best course of action.
A dental crown can last 15 years or longer if cared for properly. Proper care and maintenance require a consistent oral hygiene routine, including daily brushing, flossing, and rinsing, as well as regular dental checkups. Remember that while a crown is immune to infection, the teeth and gum tissue around it are not. Good oral hygiene practices are essential for maintaining long-term oral health.
Whether a dental crown will stain depends on the material it is made from. Porcelain crowns are renowned for their stain resistance. While porcelain mimics the appearance of natural teeth, it actually resists stains better than your enamel. Still, a dental crown can stain if it isn’t cared for properly. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for preserving the health of your surrounding teeth and gums.