El Dorado Hills cosmetic dentistry experts use dental crowns to treat broken or damaged teeth. A crown, also known as a cap, completely encircles a tooth to protect, cover, and restore its shape when fillings don’t solve the issue. Despite their popularity, lingering myths surrounding dental crowns confuse patients looking into this treatment option. We’re here to set the record straight.
Dental Crowns: Myths vs. Facts
MYTH #1: “Dental crowns are purely cosmetic.”
While dental crowns are aesthetically pleasing, dentists use them for restorative purposes. For instance, they install crowns to repair severely decayed or damaged teeth. Moreover, they also use them to replace missing teeth by placing them over implant posts.
MYTH #2: “You won’t get cavities if you have dental crowns.”
Contrary to popular belief, dental crowns aren’t installed to protect you from getting cavities. The tooth underneath the dental crown can still develop a cavity if you fail to maintain a solid at-home oral hygiene routine or schedule dental visits at least once every six months for a dental cleaning and checkup.
MYTH #3: “Dental crowns respond well to whitening.”
Strong, inorganic materials make up dental crowns. For this reason, they don’t respond to teeth whitening treatments the same way your natural teeth do. You’ll want to do it before getting dental crowns to brighten your smile. A skilled dental professional can match the shade of your whitened teeth to your crowns.
MYTH #4: “Dental crowns look fake.”
A skilled and experienced cosmetic dentist can create custom-made porcelain crowns that look like your surrounding natural teeth. Thanks to porcelain’s translucent quality, they can seamlessly blend with your smile. Since your dental crowns won’t stick out in your smile, your family, friends, and colleagues won’t be able to tell the difference between them and your other teeth.
MYTH #5: “Dental crowns won’t feel like your natural teeth.”
As mentioned, a dental crown’s customized design isn’t just for appearances. Since your cosmetic dentist ensures that it fits perfectly in your mouth, it won’t feel strange or out of place.
Moreover, they won’t affect the way you chew food. Besides checking your bite, the dentist will make the necessary adjustments before setting your dental crowns permanently. In addition, you won’t feel any difference in your tooth’s stability or strength because your natural tooth supports the crown.
MYTH #6: “Dental crowns are indestructible.”
Although crowns are known for their durability and ability to withstand daily wear and tear, they’re not indestructible. Anything that can cause injury to your teeth can also damage your dental crowns.
For instance, you may chip, crack, or break your crown when you grind your teeth at night or use your teeth to open a package or crunch into hard foods or ice. You can make your crowns last longer if you sleep with a night guard or avoid using your teeth as tools.
MYTH #7: “Dental crowns can stain easily.”
Be glad to know that dental crowns are highly resistant to staining. They consist of strong and dense materials that prevent stains from penetrating the restoration. Ensuring good oral hygiene can keep them looking good and white.
Where to Find Quality El Dorado Hills Cosmetic Dentistry
At Forest Ridge Dental Group, we offer outstanding service in a state-of-the-art facility to ensure the finest dental care in a comfortable and soothing atmosphere. Contact us today to make an appointment.