Everything You Need to Know About Dental Crowns
A Comprehensive Guide for Dental Crowns
Top Family Dentistry in Hammond, LA
Dental crowns are one of the most effective solutions for restoring the function and appearance of damaged teeth. Whether you're dealing with a cracked tooth, extensive decay, or need reinforcement after a root canal, dental crowns provide long-term protection while improving the aesthetics of your smile.
At Concord Family Dental Hammond, we specialize in high-quality dental crowns that seamlessly blend with your natural teeth. If you're considering a dental crown, here’s what you need to know about this essential dental restoration.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap placed over a tooth to restore its strength, shape, and appearance. It acts as a protective cover, preventing further damage while ensuring the tooth functions properly. Crowns are commonly used in both restorative and cosmetic dentistry to improve oral health and enhance smiles.
Why Might You Need a Dental Crown?
A dentist may recommend a crown for several reasons, including:
- To Repair a Damaged or Weak Tooth – A crown reinforces a compromised tooth, preventing further deterioration.
- For Large Cavities – When a cavity is too large for a traditional filling, a crown provides better structural support.
- Following a Root Canal – A root canal-treated tooth often requires a crown to prevent breakage and restore its function.
- For Cosmetic Enhancements – Crowns are an excellent option for improving the look of a tooth that is misshapen or discolored.
- To Support a Dental Bridge – Crowns help secure dental bridges, replacing missing teeth while maintaining bite alignment.
If you're experiencing sudden pain or a broken tooth, visiting an emergency dentist in Hammond LA can help determine if a dental crown is the right solution.
Types of Dental Crowns
There are different types of dental crowns, each offering unique benefits:
- Porcelain Crowns – Natural-looking and ideal for front teeth.
- Ceramic Crowns – Highly aesthetic and durable, making them a popular choice for cosmetic purposes.
- Zirconia Crowns – Extremely strong and resistant to wear, perfect for molars.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns – A combination of strength and aesthetics for both front and back teeth.
When you visit Concord Family Dental Hammond, we’ll help you select the best crown type based on your dental needs and goals.
The Dental Crown Procedure: What to Expect
Getting a dental crown typically requires two visits:
- First Visit: Tooth Preparation & Temporary Crown
- The dentist reshapes the tooth to accommodate the crown.
- Impressions are taken to ensure a custom fit.
- A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is being crafted.
2. Second Visit: Permanent Crown Placement
- The temporary crown is removed.
- The permanent crown is checked for fit and bite alignment.
- Once confirmed, the crown is cemented in place for long-lasting durability.
For patients seeking immediate care, an emergency dentist in Hammond LA can provide temporary crowns or expedite the restoration process.
Caring for Your Dental Crown
To extend the lifespan of your crown, follow these care tips:
- Brush and floss daily to maintain gum health.
- Avoid chewing hard foods that could damage the crown.
- Schedule regular checkups to ensure your crown remains in good condition.
With proper care, a high-quality dental crown can last 10–15 years or longer.
910 W Thomas St, Hammond, LA, 70401