12
Oct
Should I Crown My Damaged Tooth or Have It Removed?
A damaged tooth is cause for concern. Minor damage can be easily repaired with dental bonding. However, a broken or fractured tooth will need something stronger to support its compromised structure. That “something” is often a dental crown. After evaluating your condition, Dr. James Durfey, your Aztec, New Mexico dentist for crowns near me, will determine if a crown is the best treatment for you. These FAQs compiled by our team at Aztec Family Dental explain more about dental crowns and their use. Â
What are dental crowns?
Teeth compromised by decay or damage can be lost without treatment. Dental crowns provide the protection and support these teeth need to restore their usefulness. Crowns are custom-fitted, tooth-shaped caps that cover compromised teeth completely to reinforce their outer structure. By crowning a damaged tooth, Dr. Durfey can save it for future use. Â
What are crowns made of?
Crowns are made from different materials to suit all needs. The most common types are ceramic, porcelain, and porcelain fused to metal. Crowns can also be made of metal alloys like gold, nickel-chromium, and palladium. Crowns made from composite resin are generally temporary until a permanent restoration can be made.   Â
 Â
REAL PATIENTS, REAL RESULTS
What does a crown do?
The main purpose of dental crowns is to protect and restore teeth that are in bad shape due to infection, wear and tear, decay, or accidental damage. The crown becomes the tooth’s new exterior structure for biting and chewing, so your tooth can continue to be used. Crowning your tooth keeps out bacteria and debris to protect it from future infection and decay. Dr. Durfey may also crown a discolored, misshapen, or odd-sized tooth to enhance your smile’s appearance.Â
Should I crown my damaged tooth or have it removed?
If your tooth can be repaired and restored with a crown, we highly recommend doing so. Crowns preserve the bone structure of your mouth and keep your natural smile intact. Porcelain crowns are known for their strength and endurance and can keep compromised teeth strong for years. However, if a tooth is beyond repair, it’s best to have it removed.
Call Our Office for More Information
New Patients: (505) 390-1117 | Existing Patients: (505) 334-2000
Request An Appointment
How do I care for a crowned tooth?
Dental crowns don’t require special care. Good oral care habits and routine dental cleanings can keep a porcelain crown healthy and strong for 15+ years. You can prevent premature damage or wear of your crown by avoiding hard foods, stopping bad habits of chewing on ice, and using your teeth like tools.
What are my alternatives to crowns?
Depending on the problems you need to treat, some possible alternatives to dental crowns are porcelain veneers, dental fillings, and partial crowns (inlays and onlays). Dr. Durfey can guide you to the best restoration to meet your dental needs.
Where can I find the best dentist for crowns near me?
Look no further than Dr. James Durfey from Aztec Family Dental in Aztec, NM, for dental crown treatment. Contact us at (505) 390-1117 for all your restorative dental needs.
