How Partial Crowns Can Help With Damaged Teeth

Teeth can be damaged due to decay, trauma, or wear, requiring restorative treatments to preserve their function and appearance. Partial crowns provide an effective solution for teeth that do not require full coverage but need to rebuild their structural reinforcement. These restorative treatments can help repair damaged teeth while maintaining as much of their natural structure as possible.

An overview of partial crowns

Partial crowns are custom dental restorations designed to cover a portion of a damaged tooth. Unlike full crowns that cover the entire tooth, partial crowns fit over specific areas. They reinforce weakened structures while preserving the tooth's healthy enamel. These restorations are typically made of ceramic, porcelain, or composite resin materials, ensuring a natural appearance and durability.

When dentists recommend partial crowns

A dental provider may recommend partial crowns when a patient's tooth has moderate damage that does not warrant a full crown but requires more reinforcement than a standard filling can provide. Common scenarios where partial crowns are beneficial include:

• Large cavities that compromise a significant portion of a tooth
• Cracks or fractures that weaken the structure but do not need a full dental crown
• Previous fillings that have deteriorated and need to be replaced

Patients can maintain more of their natural teeth by opting for a partial crown, reducing the need for extensive reshaping.

Partial crown placement: What to expect

The placement of partial crowns generally involves two office visits. During the first visit, the dentist will prepare the affected tooth, remove damaged areas, and preserve as much healthy enamel as possible. They will then take an impression to create a custom-fitted partial crown. In many cases, the dentist may place a temporary crown on the tooth to protect it while waiting for a dental lab to fabricate a permanent one.

During the second visit, the dentist will remove the temporary restoration. Then, they will securely bond the custom-made partial crown to the tooth. The dentist ensures a precise fit and makes necessary adjustments to make it comfortable and functional. Depending on the material and the patient's care schedule, partial crowns can last 10 to 15 years, providing long-term strength and stability to the restored tooth.

The benefits of partial crowns

Partial crowns offer several advantages over traditional fillings and full crowns. These include:

• Preservation of natural tooth structure. Since partial crowns cover only the affected portion of the tooth, the patient can retain more healthy enamel.
• Durability and strength. Partial crowns are made from high-quality materials, providing better strength and longevity than traditional fillings.
• Reduced risk of future damage. By reinforcing the tooth's structure, partial crowns help prevent further cracking or decay.

Although the goal is to restore function to the tooth, partial crowns also have cosmetic advantages. The materials used blend seamlessly with natural teeth.

Caring for partial crowns

Caring for and maintaining partial crowns requires good oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits. Avoiding excessive pressure on the restored tooth, such as chewing on hard objects, can help prolong the crown's lifespan. Routine dental checkups allow the dentist to monitor the restoration and ensure its continued effectiveness.

Learn more about partial crowns today

Partial crowns provide an effective solution for restoring moderately damaged teeth while preserving their natural structure. Russikoff Family Dentistry offers partial crowns and other restorations in the Northridge area. Call our office today to learn more.

Request an appointment here: https://russikoffdentistry.com or call Russikoff Family Dentistry at (818) 483-9078 for an appointment in our Northridge office.

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