A& dental crown is one of the most effective ways to restore the normal function and appearance of decayed or damaged teeth. Designed to restore the entire exterior portion of teeth, dental crowns recreate the normal appearance and chewing function of teeth, while protecting them from additional damage or decay.
When expertly crafted and placed, dental crowns are long-lasting and natural in appearance. Known for her exceptional training and skill, Dr. Julie Spaniel has years of experience rehabilitating and repairing teeth with dental crowns. She is dedicated to staying abreast of the latest advances in crown placement to offer her patients only the best results. If you have damaged, decayed or otherwise compromised teeth, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Summerwood Aesthetic Dentistry and find out if a dental crown is right for you.
Dental Crown Benefits
A dental crown may be a great option if you have any of the following:
- A missing tooth
- A cavity that is too large to be properly treated with a dental filling, inlay or onlay
- A weak or worn tooth in need of structural support or protection
- A broken or fractured tooth
- An unattractive tooth that you would like to improve in shape, size or color
Dental crowns can be placed on their own or to support a dental implant or bridge. Dr. Spaniel will discuss these options with you following a comprehensive examination and discussion of your needs and goals.
Dental Crown Procedure Details
Dental crowns are typically placed during the course of two appointments. During the first appointment, Dr. Spaniel will prepare your tooth for placement and take impressions of your teeth which will be used to create your crown. In addition to removing decay, Dr. Spaniel may need to remove a small amount of tooth structure to ensure the crown fits perfectly over the remaining tooth structure. Your crown will be expertly crafted at a dental laboratory using high-quality materials such as metal or porcelain. This process typically takes two weeks. In the meantime, Dr. Spaniel may place a temporary crown to protect your tooth.
Once your permanent crown is ready, we will schedule a second appointment. Dr. Spaniel will remove the temporary crown and replace it with the permanent one, which will be bonded into place. Before you leave, Dr. Spaniel will make any final adjustments to the crown to ensure a proper fit and bite. The crown will be buffed and polished for a beautiful and seamless look.
Dental crowns can last for many years, so long as they are properly cared for. Like natural teeth, crowns must be brushed and flossed regularly. Routine dental checkups with Dr. Spaniel are also important to ensure your crown is functioning properly. Our team will be more than happy to share more tips and instructions on how to take care of your crown and teeth during your appointment with us.
Dental Crown Recovery
Most likely, you will feel well enough to return to work or your normal activities as soon as your appointment is finished. Some moderate swelling and tooth sensitivity are normal, but sticking to a soft, mild temperature diet for the first few days can help to keep you comfortable. If necessary, you may take pain medication to relieve any discomfort.
Dental Crown FAQs
When is a crown necessary?
Most often, crowns are suggested to restore the health and functionality of a tooth. A tooth that has weakened due to decay can benefit from being bolstered by a crown so that the bite remains strong. Crowns may also be part of a larger reconstruction plan, such as holding dental bridges in place. Dr. Spaniel may also recommend a crown as part of a cosmetic plan since a crown is a good way to cover up aesthetic imperfections.
Will other people know that I have a crown in my mouth?
Most likely not. Dr. Spaniel and you can choose from many types of crowns (varying in shape, size, and color) so that your crown looks just like your other teeth. The goal is to have such a seamless smile that even you forget that you have a crown in your mouth.
How long do crowns last?
Crowns gradually experience wear and tear due to how often you use your teeth to bite. The average dental crown lasts about 10 years before Dr. Spaniel will suggest replacement. The best way to extend the lifespan is to avoid chewing on pens, ice cubes, and your nails, which can prematurely crack your crown. Be sure to brush and floss around your crown, too.
What should I do if my dental crown becomes loose?
Dental adhesive helps to cement the crown to the top of your tooth indefinitely, but you may at some point discover that it is loose, especially if you have been chewing on something hard. Assuming that the crown has not cracked, Dr. Spaniel can easily re-cement the same crown back on the tooth.
Are dental crowns necessary after having a root canal?
Dental crowns are commonly used after performing root canal to ensure that the tooth is strong enough to function, but it is not a guarantee. Dr. Spaniel evaluates each tooth on an individual basis and will make a recommendation that makes sense for the long-term health and functionality of your bite.
Are same-day crowns worthwhile?
At most dental offices, receiving a crown is a two-day process. Having CEREC technology in our office allows us to create your new crown on the spot so that you do not need to take time off from work on multiple days. Moreover, the quality of the CEREC-created crowns is on par with those created in a dental laboratory.
What other cosmetic options do I have to improve an irregular tooth?
If your tooth is healthy but cosmetically imperfect, you may want to consider a veneer to correct its appearance since this is a less invasive option that leaves more of your natural tooth intact. Veneers are small shields that attach to the front of your tooth.
Restore Your Smile’s Health & Beauty With A Dental Crown
To learn more about dental crowns, or the other restorative dentistry options Dr. Spaniel can use to enhance the health and beauty of your smile, schedule an in-office consultation. Contact Summerwood Aesthetic Dentistry by calling or emailing our office today.