The Process of Getting Dental Crowns

The Process of Getting Dental Crowns

The Process of Getting Dental Crowns 

Restoring Radiance: The Process of Getting Dental Crowns in Lexington, KY

A dental crown is a versatile and effective restoration used to strengthen and enhance damaged or weakened teeth. Whether you’ve experienced tooth decay, trauma, or extensive wear, dental crowns can restore the functionality and appearance of your teeth. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, the best dentist in Lexington, KY, we guide you through every step of the crown placement process to ensure you achieve a durable and aesthetically pleasing result. Here’s a detailed look at what to expect when getting a dental crown.

Initial Consultation and Evaluation

The journey to getting a dental crown begins with a comprehensive consultation. During this initial visit, our team will evaluate your oral health and determine if a crown is the appropriate solution for you. We’ll take X-rays and examine the tooth to assess its condition and surrounding structures. This helps us ensure that the tooth is suitable for a crown and that any underlying issues, such as decay or infection, are addressed before proceeding.

Preparing the Tooth

Once we confirm that a dental crown is the right choice, the next step involves preparing the tooth. The preparation process involves:

  1. Numbing the Tooth: We start by administering a local anesthetic to numb the affected tooth and the surrounding area. This ensures that you remain comfortable throughout the procedure.

  2. Shaping the Tooth: Our dentist will then carefully remove any damaged or decayed portions of the tooth. We reshape the remaining tooth structure to create a strong foundation for the crown. This step is crucial for ensuring that the crown fits well and functions properly.

  3. Taking Impressions: After preparing the tooth, we take precise impressions of your teeth. These impressions are used to create a custom crown that fits perfectly over the prepared tooth. We may use traditional impression materials or digital scanning technology to capture detailed images of your teeth.

Temporary Crown Placement

While your permanent crown is being crafted, we will place a temporary crown over the prepared tooth. The temporary crown serves to protect the tooth and maintain your appearance until the permanent crown is ready. We’ll ensure that the temporary crown is comfortable and secure, and provide instructions on how to care for it during this interim period.

Creating the Permanent Crown

The impressions taken during your visit are sent to a dental laboratory, where skilled technicians create your custom permanent crown. The material used for the crown may include porcelain, ceramic, or metal, depending on your specific needs and preferences. The laboratory carefully crafts the crown to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless blend with your smile.

Fitting the Permanent Crown

Once the permanent crown is ready, you’ll return to our office for the final placement. During this appointment, we will:

  1. Try On the Crown: We’ll place the permanent crown on your tooth to check its fit and appearance. Our dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure that the crown aligns properly with your bite and feels comfortable.

  2. Bond the Crown: After confirming that the fit is perfect, we’ll bond the crown to the prepared tooth using a strong dental adhesive. This secure bond ensures that the crown stays in place and functions as intended.

  3. Final Adjustments: We’ll make any final adjustments to ensure that the crown blends seamlessly with your natural teeth. We’ll also provide you with instructions on how to care for your new crown to ensure its longevity.

Aftercare and Maintenance

Once your crown is in place, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for its longevity. Here are a few tips for caring for your dental crown:

  • Brush and Floss Regularly: Continue to brush twice daily and floss daily to keep your crown and surrounding teeth clean and free of plaque.
  • Avoid Hard Foods: Avoid chewing on hard objects or foods that could damage the crown.
  • Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular dental check-ups with the best dentist in Lexington, KY, to monitor the condition of your crown and overall oral health.

Why Choose Park Hills Family Dentistry?

At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we take pride in providing exceptional care and using the latest techniques for dental crown placement. As the best dentist in Lexington, KY, our team is dedicated to ensuring that you receive the highest quality treatment tailored to your specific needs. From the initial consultation to the final placement of your crown, we strive to make the process as smooth and comfortable as possible.

If you think you might need a dental crown or have any questions about the procedure, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime.

The Importance of Preventive Dentistry

The Importance of Preventive Dentistry

The Importance of Preventive Dentistry 

Empowering Smiles: The Importance of Preventive Dentistry in Lexington, KY

When it comes to maintaining a healthy smile, preventive dentistry is your best ally. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, the best dentist in Lexington, KY, emphasizes that investing in preventive care today can save you from complex treatments and higher costs down the road. This approach not only ensures that your teeth and gums stay healthy but also plays a crucial role in preserving your overall well-being.

What is Preventive Dentistry?

Preventive dentistry involves practices and treatments aimed at preventing dental issues before they arise. The focus is on maintaining good oral health through regular check-ups, cleanings, and adopting healthy habits. Unlike reactive treatments that address problems after they occur, preventive care is proactive, aiming to catch potential issues early and mitigate their impact.

Benefits of Preventive Dentistry

Early Detection of Problems

One of the primary benefits of preventive dentistry is the early detection of dental issues. During regular check-ups, your dentist can identify problems such as cavities, gum disease, or even early signs of oral cancer before they develop into more serious conditions. Catching these issues early can lead to simpler and less invasive treatments, reducing the likelihood of complex procedures later on.

Cost Savings

Preventive care can significantly reduce the cost of dental treatments over time. By addressing issues early and maintaining your oral health, you can avoid more extensive and expensive procedures. Regular cleanings and exams are often less costly than treatments for advanced dental issues, making preventive care a wise financial choice.

Reduced Risk of Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common condition that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Preventive dentistry plays a vital role in reducing the risk of gum disease through professional cleanings and patient education on proper brushing and flossing techniques. By maintaining healthy gums, you protect not only your teeth but also your overall health, as gum disease has been linked to other systemic conditions like heart disease and diabetes.

Enhanced Overall Health

Good oral health is closely linked to overall health. Regular dental visits and cleanings help prevent oral infections and reduce the risk of systemic conditions. For instance, untreated dental infections can lead to serious health issues, including cardiovascular problems. By prioritizing preventive care, you contribute to your overall well-being and quality of life.

Improved Aesthetic Appeal

Preventive dentistry helps maintain the appearance of your smile. Regular cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup that can cause discoloration and staining. Additionally, preventive care ensures that your teeth remain in good condition, preventing issues that could affect the aesthetics of your smile.

Key Components of Preventive Dentistry

Regular Check-Ups

Routine dental check-ups are the cornerstone of preventive care. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, the best dentist in Lexington, KY, recommends scheduling regular exams every six months. These visits allow your dentist to monitor your oral health, perform necessary cleanings, and address any emerging issues before they become problematic.

Professional Cleanings

Professional cleanings are essential for removing plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing may miss. During a cleaning, your dental hygienist will use specialized tools to thoroughly clean your teeth, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride treatments help strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. Your dentist may recommend fluoride treatments based on your individual needs, particularly if you are at higher risk for cavities.

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth. They act as a barrier against plaque and bacteria, helping to prevent cavities, especially in children and teenagers.

Patient Education

Educating patients about proper oral hygiene practices is a key aspect of preventive care. Your dentist will provide guidance on effective brushing and flossing techniques, as well as advice on diet and lifestyle choices that impact oral health.

Making Preventive Dentistry a Priority

Incorporating preventive dentistry into your routine is an investment in your long-term oral health. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we encourage you to make regular dental visits a priority and adopt healthy habits that support your oral well-being.

By focusing on preventive care, you not only maintain a healthy and beautiful smile but also avoid more complex and costly treatments in the future. Don’t wait for problems to arise—schedule your next appointment with the best dentist in Lexington, KY, and take proactive steps towards a healthier smile.

In summary, preventive dentistry is essential for maintaining optimal oral health and overall well-being. Embrace the benefits of regular check-ups, professional cleanings, and patient education to enjoy a lifetime of healthy smiles. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we are committed to providing exceptional care and helping you achieve your best oral health through comprehensive preventive strategies.