Dental crowns are a dental implant that is used for a number of reasons. They mimic your actual tooth and are put in place by your dentist to help protect, support or restore your tooth. Crowns can be made of different materials such as metal or porcelain. Metal may stand out in your mouth, so porcelain is used to help the crown blend with your teeth. See below for some helpful information about dental crowns.

Who Needs A Dental Crown?

If your teeth are worn down due to teeth grinding, broken/cracked or you have a large filling in your tooth, a dental crown may be an option for you. A crown is used to protect your tooth from further damage, to prevent needing the tooth pulled out. A crown can be placed on any of your teeth, and can even be placed over the top of a bridge or for capping a dental implant.

Dental crowns can go unnoticeable in your mouth if porcelain is used, and can mimic the look of the rest of your teeth if you prefer. A metal ring around the base of the crown may be seen, but you can talk to your dentist about other options to make it more aesthetically pleasing.

How Do You Care For A Dental Crown?

Crowns are cared for much like your regular teeth.

• Brush. Be sure to brush your teeth twice daily for at least two minutes. Use a toothpaste that contains fluoride to protect your other teeth and to prevent future damage to your natural teeth.
• Floss.  Use floss once per day, even in between your crown to get any food that could be stuck in between these teeth as well. Plaque can build up on the crown, much like your natural teeth.
• Rinse. Rinse your mouth during the day when you aren't able to brush, such as while at work, to clean your mouth. Use an anti-bacterial rinse.
• Drink water. Drinking plenty of water can keep your teeth clean, and can help rinse your mouth throughout the day. Skip out on drinks such as coffee, tea and soda which can stain your teeth, and could potentially stain your dental implant.
• Visit the dentist. Visit the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings, and to have your crown inspected. Be sure to tell your dentist if you are having any issues with your dental crown or with any of your other teeth.

Dental crowns may be right for you, so be sure to talk to your dentist about this option if you have worn teeth, large cavities, or cracked/damaged teeth, rather than having the tooth pulled entirely.