Common Uses for Porcelain Crowns
At cosmetic dentist Andrew G. Mortensen’s dental practice, patients come in with a wide array of dental concerns, both restorative and cosmetic in nature. While each situation is unique, a surprising number of these dental problems can be addressed with dental crowns treatment. For our Fountain Valley patients, porcelain crowns restore strength and function to the tooth while simultaneously maintaining or restoring the tooth’s natural beauty. This dental treatment is extremely effective and a popular procedure because of its wide range of uses. Below are some common uses of porcelain crowns:
Treating Tooth Decay
Porcelain crowns are a good treatment option for patients with advanced stages of tooth decay. When the tooth cannot be adequately restored with a dental filling, porcelain crowns allow Dr. Mortensen to restore lost tooth enamel while preserving and protecting the natural tooth structure and tooth roots. Unhealthy tooth enamel is filed away and the porcelain crown is placed over the remaining enamel in order to restore strength and function. The porcelain crown looks and functions like a natural tooth and protects the tooth and roots from further decay or infection.
Repairing a Damaged Tooth
Mouth and tooth injuries are very common. Sporting activities and even simple accidents can put trauma on the teeth, causing a chip, fracture, or a “dead” tooth. In these cases, a porcelain crown can prevent the need for tooth extraction. Rather than remove the damaged tooth, it can be filed down in order to accommodate a dental crown. The dental crown will replace damaged tooth material in order to allow for regular oral functions.
Restoring Strength
In some cases, a tooth may not necessarily be damaged, but it has become worn down or weak. A dental crown can be applied to the tooth in order to offer strength to the tooth and structural support to the mouth. The dental crown also offers protection to the weakened tooth, which is vulnerable to damage and decay.
Improving Aesthetics
There are many cosmetic dental procedures that can address minor blemishes in order to improve the aesthetics of the smile. A porcelain crown is an option for patients with more advanced cosmetic flaws. A porcelain crown can improve the appearance of a tooth that is misshaped, severely discolored, or otherwise flawed.
Securing Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a restorative option for patients with one or more missing teeth. Dental bridges are secured on either side by teeth that have been treated with dental crowns. Dental crowns are applied to the two teeth adjacent to the gap of the missing teeth in order to provide a strong and stable anchor for the dental bridge.
Replacing Missing Teeth
Dental crowns themselves are another restorative treatment option for adult tooth loss. Dental crowns can be anchored to a dental implant in order to replace a missing tooth to restore strength, function, and beauty to the smile.
Schedule an Appointment
Dr. Andrew G. Mortensen offers his patients an array of dental procedures that address the restorative and cosmetic needs of his patients. In many cases, the health and beauty of the smile can be dramatically improved in a matter of just a few appointments. If you would like to learn how we can improve your smile, schedule an appointment with Dr. Mortensen at your earliest convenience. We look forward to hearing from you!
