5 Signs You Might Need a Dental Crown

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A dental crown is a type of restorative dental service in Fort Lauderdale, FL, that protects a damaged natural tooth, allowing it to function correctly. Not all problem teeth will benefit from this protective cap, though. Here are five key signs that a dental crown is the right choice for you.

1. Your Dentist in Fort Lauderdale, FL, Says You Need a Root Canal

During a root canal, the dentist removes the inner portion of the tooth to eliminate the decay and infection. Afterward, they will use a crown to protect the weak tooth from breaking, especially in the back of your mouth, where you chew food.

2. You Break a Tooth

Teeth are vulnerable to fracture, especially if weakened by disease or injury. Depending on the extent of the damage, our dentist in Fort Lauderdale, FL, may recommend using a crown to preserve the natural tooth.

3. You Have a Large Cavity

If your tooth has a cavity that is too large for a traditional filling, a crown can protect it from further damage. The dental crown sits over the top of the hole in the tooth, giving it more protection than a filling would, especially if the remaining enamel is thin.

4. You have an Irregular Tooth

If you have a misshapen tooth that sticks when you smile, the dental crown will make it appear similar to your other teeth. It is an easy fix when there is just one tooth that doesn’t fit right.

5. You Grind Your Teeth

If you have extreme bruxism or teeth grinding, dental crowns can restore your teeth. However, it is only a practical solution if you receive successful treatment for the grinding. If you are still grinding your teeth, though, you will damage the crown the same way you did your natural tooth.

If you suspect you need a crown, make an appointment at Florida Smiles Dental for a consultation with our dentist in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Contact us today or visit our website to complete our contact form.

When Is a Crown the Best Option for a Damaged Tooth?

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One thing is certain when one of your teeth gets damaged, ad that is it has to be repaired. Damaged teeth don’t get better by themselves. Unlike some animals and insects like geccos, humans can’t regenerate body parts—including teeth.

Thankfully, humankind has come up with ways to restore a damaged tooth. Often, a dental crown is the option that offers the best long-term outcome. A dental crown in Fort Lauderdale, FL is essentially a custom-made cap that fits over a tooth, restoring both its shape and its strength. While fillings or bonding can work for smaller issues, a crown is designed to handle more significant damage and protect the tooth from further problems.

When Damage is Beyond

If a tooth has a large fracture, deep decay, or has been worn down significantly, a filling alone may not provide enough support. In these cases, a crown may be the best way to go. It covers the entire visible surface, distributing biting forces evenly. This can prevent the tooth from cracking further and help maintain proper alignment with surrounding teeth.

After Root Canal Treatment

Teeth that had a root canal are more brittle and prone to breakage. Placing a crown after this procedure acts as a shield, allowing the tooth to function normally without the constant risk of fracture. It also seals the tooth, reducing the chance of reinfection.

Dental crowns aren’t only about fixing a tooth—it’s about preserving it for years to come. If you have a damaged tooth and want both protection and a natural look, it may be time to consider this option. Schedule a consultation with your Fort Lauderdale, FL dentist at Florida Smiles Dental to see if a crown is the right solution for you.

What Should You Expect When You Get a Dental Crown?

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Having teeth that are decayed or showing signs of wear and tear means they’re more vulnerable to fractures and other damage. It’s also hard to eat when you have significant tooth damage or decay. At Florida Smiles Dental, our dentists in Lighthouse Point and Fort Lauderdale, FL, offer dental crowns to restore and protect these teeth. Here’s what happens during these appointments.

Tooth Preparation

We need to ensure that your new crown has room and a good foundation. That involves preparing your tooth with a small amount of enamel removal.

Dental Impressions

Our dental team takes impressions of your tooth that are used to produce a custom crown. These impressions help ensure a proper fit and natural look.

Temporary Crown

Your new crown won’t be ready right away. In the meantime, we put a temporary crown on the affected tooth to protect it until your next appointment.

Permanent Crown Placement

When your new custom crown is ready, we’ll have you come in for another visit. During this appointment, we remove the temporary crown and replace it with your new one.

Permanent Crown Bonding

The last step in the process involves securing your crown to your tooth with dental cement. This helps it stay in place, ensuring protection for your tooth and lowering the risk of damage.

Care Instructions

Our dental team provides you with guidance on how to care for your new dental crown so it stays in good condition.

Visit Our Dentists for Dental Crowns!

Do you have teeth that need to be protected from additional decay or damage? We’re here to help! At Florida Smiles Dental, our dentists offer dental crowns in Lighthouse Point and Fort Lauderdale, FL, to keep your teeth safe.

Should You Get Dental Crowns or Dental Veneers?

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Are chipped teeth or severe stains affecting your smile? You have a couple of options to consider for cosmetic treatment, including dental veneers and crowns. But which is more suitable for your teeth? Our dentists in Lighthouse Point and Fort Lauderdale, FL, at Florida Smiles Dental consider various factors to help patients make this decision.

What Are Crowns and Veneers?

Veneers and crowns can both improve the appearance of teeth in different ways. Crowns are caps that cover a whole tooth to restore it. Veneers are shells that cover the front part of teeth.

Severity and Type of Tooth Damage or Imperfections

Both options can help fix several tooth flaws, such as discolourations or minor cracks. But for more severe imperfections or damage, we typically recommend crowns instead of veneers. We might recommend veneers in certain cases, such as to correct misaligned teeth or spaces between teeth.

Cost

Consider your budget for cosmetic dental care. Veneers usually cost less than crowns overall, since they only cover part of a tooth rather than the entire tooth.

Durability and Lifespan

Crowns tend to be more durable than veneers, lasting for many years. Veneers may need to be replaced every few years or more, depending on their material and condition.

Tooth Preparation

Both options require us to remove some enamel from your teeth. But veneers don’t require as much preparation as crowns, making them slightly less invasive.

Schedule a Consultation for Cosmetic Treatment Today!

Are you interested in enhancing your smile, but aren’t sure which solution to choose? Our dental team at Florida Smiles Dental can help you decide! We offer dental crowns and veneers in Lighthouse Point and Fort Lauderdale, FL, as options for correcting or concealing aesthetic dental issues.