El Portal Dental Blog

We all want to have a perfect set of pearly whites. But it is estimated that 26% of American adults have untreated tooth decay, while 92% of adults have had cavities in one or more of their permanent teeth.

With the prevalence of tooth decay and tooth loss, it is no wonder that there’s an increase in Americans who have opted to have dental crowns to fill in the gaps. A dental crown restores a damaged tooth by either giving the natural tooth a new top, or “crown,” or by replacing a missing tooth with a perfect prosthetic crown atop a dental implant. 

How Can Dental Crowns Help Me? 

The crown, which is also called a “cap,” mimics the original tooth’s normal shape, size, and function. It can make the tooth and gums stronger and can help maintain proper chewing. If the jaws are forced to chew awkwardly and off-centered due to missing teeth, this can cause problems with the jawbone and the facial muscles, including TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder); therefore, having dental crowns can foster proper chewing and alignment of the upper and lower jaws and teeth. 

Dental crowns are a popular dental restoration solution that can help in protecting damaged and cracked teeth while restoring the tooth’s functionality. There are various reasons why you may need a dental crown, but some of the reasons might include:

• A cavity is too large for a dental filling.
• A cracked and damaged tooth is already weak and worn down.
• You had a root canal and now need a dental crown to help protect the restored tooth.
• You had an implant that now needs a crown in order to make it in the shape of a real tooth. 

How Does It Work? 

In placing dental crowns, it usually requires at least two dental visits to complete the treatment. When a dental crown is placed over a natural tooth, there are several steps involved:

1. Your dentist needs to prepare the tooth by removing the damaged portion so that a dental cap can fit.
2. The dentist takes an impression of the tooth so the cap can be made to fit atop the tooth.
3. A temporary cap is placed.
4. When the new crown is ready, your dentist installs it on top of the tooth while making any necessary adjustments.

Dental crowns are durable and can last for 5 to 15 years, which makes it an excellent option because it is cost-efficient. To help maintain the crown, it is best to see your dentist regularly for checkups and maintenance. Of course, this will also benefit your oral health and your overall health in the process.

Expert Dentist in Merced 

If you are looking for an experienced dentist who truly cares about people, choose El Portal Dental Group right here in Merced, California. Our dental team can provide state-of-the-art dental care for you and your whole family. We offer general dentistry, implant dentistry, and cosmetic dentistry services to both adults and children.

To schedule an appointment, call us today at (209) 385-1479 or fill out our online appointment request form now. We look forward to partnering with you for excellent oral health and an amazing smile!