When would you need a dental crown?
Dental crowns are essentially caps of different materials that are placed over a tooth to help restore its shape and size, and to improve overall function, strength, and appearance of a tooth. It is often used on severely damaged teeth with the hopes of saving it from further damage or even falling out. Dentists will typically recommend crowns if your teeth have extensive damage or decay, but can also be utilized in other situations.
The first situation where a crown may be useful is if you have either a tooth that has been cracked or is showing signs of excessive stress. This can be seen in patients who chew really hard foods like hard candies that can lead to teeth slowly being chipped away. Excessive cracks to a tooth can eventually cause it to become unstable, and requires a cap to hold the tooth together. Patients who also experience loss of enamel due to acidic foods may also require a cap to preserve the strength and integrity of their teeth.
The second most common situation where a dental crown is needed involves large fillings for cavities. Big fillings can promote tooth breakage, but can be prevented with the help of a crown that not only protects the tooth but also keeps the tissue under the tooth safe.
The third situation is when a patient has a root canal treatment. In this procedure, the tooth is hollowed out, making it susceptible to cracks. That’s why a crown is typically needed to prevent further injury or damage to that tooth.
Lastly, crowns can be used strictly for cosmetic purposes as well. Whether a patient has discolored or misshapen teeth, a crown can help bring back the beautiful look of a perfect smile.
Can a Tooth Rot Under a Crown?
Though crowns protect teeth from further damage, a tooth can absolutely rot under a crown if proper oral hygiene isn’t being taken care of. This means brushing teeth twice a day, regular flossing, rinsing your mouth after meals, and having adequate dental checkups are a necessity to ensure that teeth don’t rot.
Is It Better to Get a Crown or Pull the Tooth?
Tooth extraction is certainly a possibility, but it is typically used as a last resort especially if the tooth in question is near the front. Not only can an extraction lead to changes in the appearance of a smile, but can also affect the way patients chew foods. Crowns, therefore, are typically a better option in preserving teeth that are near the front, as it helps retain the same strength and power of a normal bite while maintaining a normal appearance.
In the end, you should speak with your dentist about what the best option is for your specific situation. Most times, dentists will recommend crowns. However, if a tooth is located towards the back of the mouth, an extraction may be more likely as it has very little effect on your overall ability to bite and chew.
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Coffee Before Dental Cleaning
Coffee is a staple in most people’s morning routines. However you may be wondering if you can indulge in your favorite caffeine boost before having a dental cleaning performed. The specific answer isn’t too clear, but what is known is that coffee is generally an acidic beverage, meaning it can tear away enamel and stain teeth if consumed excessively, and can definitely reverse the benefits of a thorough dental cleaning,
What can I eat after teeth whitening?
After a teeth whitening procedure, your teeth can be sensitive during the first few hours to couple of days, so many dentists recommend avoiding certain foods for 2 to 3 days. After a professional teeth whitening, your teeth can become slightly porous, and the dentin layer can become temporarily exposed. Acidic and dark-colored foods are more easily absorbed into your teeth after whitening, which can cause discoloration. Avoid foods that are too hot or too cold and make sure the food items are at room temperature.
What Happens If Tartar Is Not Removed?
Tartar, which is hardened and difficult to remove plaque, can cause damage to your teeth and gums if not removed promptly. The accumulation of bacteria in tartar can slowly erode teeth, destroy healthy gum tissue, and can cause unpleasant odors and bad breath. When tartar damages the gum line, patients may experience bleeding, swelling, and irritation from even gentle brushing. And more severe cases of tartar build up can even lead to dental erosion and unstable teeth, increasing the risk of underlying bone damage and teeth falling out.
Coffee Before Dental Appointment
If you’re an avid coffee drinker, you probably know how difficult it can be to go for an entire day without that boost of delicious caffeine. However, if you have a dental appointment, whether it’s just a regular cleaning or something more extensive, it may be advisable to skip that morning cup of coffee to help ensure your teeth get the proper care they need.