If your teeth have been weakened by tooth decay or other damage and they’re not as strong as they used to be, you may be looking into restorative dentistry. Restorations, such as dental crowns, implants, and dentures, can help restore function in your mouth so you can get back to eating and speaking normally and without pain.

Dr. Bhavik Bhakta at Sunshine Dental in Corona, CA is pleased to offer a variety of restoration services. These include dental crowns for patients dealing with cavities, fractures, and other bite issues.

Below, we’ll look at how dental crowns work, who may need them, and how they may be able to strengthen your teeth.

What are dental crowns?

Dental crowns are a tooth-shaped cap that sits over a damaged natural tooth. They are typically made from ceramic, porcelain, or metal.

While some teeth that have mild damage may only need fillings, dental crowns are usually reserved for teeth that have been severely weakened. However, if you need a filling, Dr. Bhakta at Sunshine Dental may still talk to you about a tooth crown as a longer-term solution.

In some mild cases of damage, the patient can choose between a filling or tooth crown. But sometimes, a filling isn’t appropriate.

You are very likely to need a dental crown if you have:

• A tooth weakened by decay
• A cracked or broken tooth
• A tooth that has been worn down
• A large filling that is no longer secure
• A root canal

There are also cosmetic reasons a patient may get a crown, such as misshapen or discolored teeth needing a cover-up. However, the treatment is unlikely to be covered by insurance in this case.

Why is a dental crown better than an extraction?

Our teeth grow weaker as we age, even when we care for them well. If you get regular check-ups, Dr. Bhakta can catch problems in time and use dental restorations to preserve your original tooth.

While extraction of a seriously damaged tooth may be less expensive, pulling a tooth also removes the roots and can cause problems with the jaw.

When a tooth is extracted, it leaves a gap. And if that gap is not filled by a restoration, such as a bridge or an implant, the surrounding teeth will begin to shift to fill the empty space. As a result, they can become crooked, interfere with your bite, and even cause sagging of the cheeks and a change in the appearance of the lower half of your face.

A tooth crown is also likely to be more aesthetically pleasing. It will be made to match the rest of your teeth, so it does not stand out.

Do crowns make teeth stronger?

Dental crowns serve two primary purposes – strengthening weak teeth and providing a barrier so bacteria cannot get in or out.

A crown will seal your remaining tooth in by covering it completely. This helps protect the original tooth from further damage if it has become fragile due to damage or aging. And it will allow you to keep the roots of the tooth, so your jaw remains strong.

So, if you’re wondering, “do crowns make teeth stronger?” The answer is yes, if your tooth has been weakened by injury or decay.

Are dental crowns permanent?

Dental crowns are designed to be very durable. The material they are made from will depend on whether they’re designed for your front or back teeth. While dental crowns are strong, they are not indestructible. Just like regular teeth, they can be damaged if they’re not cared for appropriately.

Dental crowns can last anywhere from 5 – 15 years. But some last even longer when they’re treated well.

Dental crowns in Corona, CA

Dr. Bhavik Bhakta and the team of experts at Sunshine Dental in Corona, CA have extensive experience in restorative dentistry, including dental crowns, and are committed to helping patients keep teeth healthy.

The first step toward better oral health is to schedule a consultation today so Dr. Bhakta can formulate a customized plan based on your specific needs.