A CEREC® Crown for a Misshapen Tooth

Many people know that CEREC® crowns can be used to treat teeth that have been severely damaged by decay or trauma. However, dental crowns can also be used to remedy a misshapen tooth. This can help create a more even, balanced smile that is both aesthetically pleasing and fully functional.

Common causes of misshapen teeth

There are numerous reasons a child or adult may have a misshapen tooth. Understanding the causes can help patients be more proactive about their dental and overall health. Sometimes, it is not obvious that a tooth is abnormal in shape or size. A person may not realize a tooth is actually misshapen until a dentist examines and evaluates it.

Abnormal growth and development

Some genetic factors or other preexisting medical conditions can cause permanent teeth to grow and form in an abnormal fashion. This can include notched biting surfaces; a long, thin shape; a short, rounded shape; and more. These issues can impact the rest of the teeth and may also point to a specific medical issue. It is wise to have an abnormally shaped tooth evaluated to rule out any underlying causes that may require a specific type of medical treatment.

Bruxism

Consistently grinding or clenching one's teeth is known as bruxism, and the condition can cause serious problems in the long term. In addition to causing headaches and TMJ disorders, this bad habit wears down the teeth, leading to abnormal shapes that are not conducive to good oral health.

Chronic decay

Ideally, tooth decay should be treated promptly to prevent infection and tooth loss. However, if decay is left untreated or occurs multiple times in the same tooth, it could affect its overall structure. This can lead to teeth that are irregularly shaped and weakened.

Treatment with a CEREC® crown

Misshapen permanent teeth should be treated as soon as possible to prevent complications down the road, such as:

• Crooked or misaligned teeth
• Damage to surrounding teeth
• Jaw pain
• Digestive or speech issues
• Bone loss

A CEREC® crown can be used to create the proper size and shape for the affected tooth, leading to a better appearance and improved function for the patient. Advanced computer technology allows dentists to design a natural-looking replacement that is a perfect fit with the other existing teeth. Because CEREC® crowns are milled on-site at the dentist's office, the entire treatment process is completed in a single appointment, which means faster results and fewer trips for the patient. In addition, CEREC® crowns are crafted from high-quality ceramic, which creates a durable and realistic-looking finished product.