People in Daly City enjoy the many benefits of dental crowns
In modern dentistry, dental crowns serve both restorative and aesthetic purposes, however this wasn’t always true. Historically, crowns were simply for tooth repair. Man has used dental crowns for centuries to strengthen damaged teeth. Archaeologists have discovered evidence that the Etruscans were making dental crowns out of bone or ivory as early as 700 B.C., and they began using gold crowns by 200 A.D. Today, people in Daly City, San Francisco, and the surrounding areas enjoy numerous benefits from this procedure.
The primary function of a dental crown is to strengthen and protect damaged or weakened teeth. Although it may seem that extraction is the least expensive, fastest, and easiest way to treat a tooth with extensive damage – that is rarely the case. An extracted tooth should be replaced to stop the remaining teeth from leaning into the gap, which would cause misalignment and increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Although dental implants and dental bridges are excellent restorations for missing teeth, neither makes a perfect replacement for a natural tooth. Usually, from both a health and financial standpoint, saving the tooth, when possible, is a better option. Left untreated, a damaged tooth can pose some significant health risks.
Without protection, a damaged tooth will continue to deteriorate. Bacteria can reach the pulp of the tooth and cause infection, which can spread to the surrounding area and cause a dental abscess to form. Untreated abscesses can cause serious complications; the infection can spread to the jawbone, soft tissue, and blood. Once in the blood, the infection can spread to other areas of the body and result in potentially life threatening conditions such as pneumonia and endocarditis. Placing a dental crown over a damaged tooth will protect it, preventing bacteria from reaching the dental pulp and causing an infection.
Dental crowns are also used in cosmetic treatments to change the color, size, shape, or contour of flawed teeth; however, veneers or bonding may be a better option. Dr. Leo Arellano and his team offer a wide variety of options to help his patients enjoy optimal oral health and beautiful smiles. Call and inquire about our complimentary 15-minute consultations.
