When you've got an issue that affects the appearance or function of a tooth, dental crowns offer an excellent solution. Crowns may be one of the options your dentist in Lincoln, NE, Dr. Thomas Blankenau recommends during your visit to Caring Family Dentistry.

What are crowns?

Crowns cover the top parts of your teeth completely. Often called "caps," the restorations are hollow inside, allowing them to easily slip over teeth. Before you receive a crown, your dentist will need to make your tooth a little smaller. Reducing the size of the tooth makes it easier for the crown to fit over your tooth.

Your crown will be made of porcelain or porcelain-fused-to-metal. These materials are durable and closely resemble natural tooth enamel. During your first appointment in the Lincoln, NE, dental office, your dentist will make an impression of your mouth. The dental laboratory will use the impression as a mold when creating your crown.

You'll wear a temporary crown until your permanent restoration is ready in about two weeks. After making a few adjustments, your dentist will attach your new crown with dental cement.

How can crowns help my smile?

Crowns are versatile restorations that can improve many smile issues. If your tooth is fragile or cracked, adding a crown will prevent it from breaking. Breaks not only change your appearance but can be painful. If a break extends into the root of a tooth, removal will be the only option. Fortunately, adding a crown to a fragile tooth helps you avoid these problems.

If your tooth has broken, covering it with a crown will restore its normal appearance, end your pain, and make it possible to chew and bite with the tooth once again.

Crowns are also a good choice if you don't like the appearance of a tooth. They're an excellent option if you have a tooth that's been discolored by tetracycline, a large filling, or tooth trauma. Although teeth whitening is helpful in removing stains in tooth enamel, whiteners can't reach deep inside discolored teeth. Adding a crown ensures that your tooth will look just like nearby teeth.

The restorations also lengthen short teeth and improve the appearance of oddly shaped teeth.

Could dental crowns help your smile? Call your Lincoln, NE, dentist, Dr. Blankenau of Caring Family Dentistry, at (402) 423-9344 to schedule your appointment.