Dental crowns Pittsburgh PA are custom-fitted caps designed to restore, reinforce, and improve the aesthetic appeal of teeth that are damaged or decayed, as well as to cover dental implants. These crowns are tailored to match the unique shape and size of the individual tooth and can be crafted from a variety of materials, including metal, resin, or porcelain. With appropriate care, dental crowns Pittsburgh PA can have a lifespan ranging from 5 to 15 years.
Advantages of Dental Crowns
Crowns Perform Like Natural Teeth
Many patient’s express concerns that crowns may not feel like their natural teeth. However, in most cases, individuals find it difficult to differentiate between crowns and their original teeth. Dental crowns Pittsburgh PA are designed to fit securely over the existing teeth, often appearing indistinguishable from the surrounding natural teeth. Furthermore, patients can eat and speak normally without the need for any additional devices.
Crowns Prevent Jawbone Recession
The impact of tooth extraction extends beyond a patient’s smile and self-esteem; it can also influence the jawbone and overall facial structure. The jawbone requires stimulation from the teeth to maintain its integrity, and without this stimulation, it may begin to deteriorate. In instances of decay or abscess, a dentist can intervene by treating the affected tooth and placing a crown to safeguard it. This dental crown serves to prevent further recession and supports the health of the jawbone.
Crowns Can Last up to 30 Years
With proper care, dental crowns Pittsburgh PA can endure for many years, often lasting between 10 to 15 years on average, and in some cases, even up to 30 years. Effective maintenance of crowns includes managing bruxism and refraining from activities that could potentially damage them. Regular brushing and flossing are essential for safeguarding crowns, and patients should be cautious not to misuse their teeth. Actions such as chewing on ice or using teeth to open bottles or pencil tops can lead to harm, not only to the teeth but also to the crowns themselves.
Crowns Treat Damaged Teeth
A significant motivation for patients to opt for crowns is to preserve their natural teeth. Dentists often recommend crowns for teeth that are cracked, broken, or infected, with infections typically necessitating a root canal procedure. Following a root canal, the affected tooth becomes more susceptible to further damage and infection, making it crucial to protect it with a crown. In many instances, the only alternative to placing a crown is to extract the tooth entirely.
Crowns Support Bridgework
Patients who have lost several teeth can still take advantage of bridgework, which serves to fill the gaps with artificial teeth known as pontics. To secure the bridge in place, the dentist must connect it to the remaining natural teeth. Dental crowns Pittsburgh PA play a vital role in anchoring this bridgework effectively. Additionally, crowns can be placed on dental implants, which are securely anchored in the jawbone, providing enhanced stability for the replacement teeth.
