Have a damaged tooth? If so, your Grand Forks, ND, family dentist, Dr. Steven Erlandson can restore your smile with the help of dental crowns, tooth-shaped caps that fully encase the visible portion of the tooth that lies above the gum line. Read on to learn how this treatment can help your smile.

1. It can fix your smile problems. Dental crowns can correct different types of cosmetic dental issues including teeth that are badly decayed, chipped, cracked, worn-down, and weakened teeth. Crowns are the next best thing to your original teeth, as they feel, fit, and function in a natural fashion.

2. It can enhance your smile. Permanent crowns are made from several types of materials: ceramics, porcelain, composite resin, or a combination of these materials. In the process of making crowns, the material is often colored to blend in with your existing teeth. All-porcelain dental crowns are beautiful and provide a natural color.

3. It will strengthen your tooth. Dental crowns are incredibly strong, durable, and can last for many years. They are also strong enough to withstand chewing forces.

4. It will improve oral function. It's difficult to eat when you have a broken tooth. A dental crown will give you the ability to enjoy good food again by restoring the damaged structure.

5. It can hide dental staining. Dental crowns can instantly correct tooth discoloration. If your tooth has darkened after root canal treatment, bleaching the tooth won't help. Professional teeth whitening will not lighten some stains, like tetracycline stains. In this case, your family dentist may recommend covering the darkened tooth with a permanent crown.

Ready to transform your smile? Call Dr. Steven Erlandson, DDS at 701-772-6581 today to schedule a consultation with your family dentist in Grand Forks, ND.