A dental crown is a cap or cover that we can put over your tooth. It will restore the tooth to its normal size, shape, color, and function.
You might be experiencing an issue with a tooth that is decayed, damaged, or just less aesthetically pleasing than the surrounding teeth. With these imperfections, a dental crown can be an excellent solution to restore the surface of your tooth back to a natural and healthy finish.
The team at Burch Dental has a simple goal. That is to ensure your trust through our commitment to quality treatment and your continued satisfaction. It is our daily agenda to maintain a caring environment that is respectful and comfortable for everyone. Our team members are united in our efforts to promote oral health by means of prevention, enhancement, wellness, and rejuvenation. Call or visit one of our convenient locations today to schedule your appointment for an evaluation regarding a potential dental crown restoration.
What Is A Dental Crown?
When the team at Burch Dental examines the crowns of your teeth, we are referring to the exposed part of your tooth that is visible above the gum line. When this visible part of the tooth is damaged, a dental crown is then a complete covering that will sit directly on top of the tooth to help protect and maintain that natural tooth structure. Crowns are shaded to match the color of your neighboring teeth and can be fabricated using a variety of materials such as porcelain, ceramic, resin, or metal.
We recommend placing a dental crown if your tooth is damaged by cracking, decay, or a significant fracture. Crowns will be used to improve the look of an unsightly tooth as well as to protect weak and vulnerable areas on the surface of the tooth.
The Life Expectancy of a Dental Crown
The life expectancy of a dental crown can be determined by a few different variables. If you are taking good care of your teeth by practicing a good oral hygiene routine and brushing twice daily, flossing at least once a day, and avoiding foods that can crack the surface of a tooth, your dental crown could last several decades. The average life expectancy is between 5-15 years, but we have seen dental crowns last up to 30 years with proper care.
The Side Effects of Getting a Dental Crown
The side effects are very minimal. Immediately after the placement of your crown, you may experience some slight sensitivity in your teeth or gums. This reaction is common and can be easily controlled by using over-the-counter pain relievers or by a prescription medication. There are also various rinses and pastes available that can ease the discomfort of oral sensitivity.
The Dental Crown Procedure
Before Burch Dental can place your dental crown, X-rays are necessary to determine if the tooth to be restored has any damage below the surface of the gums. If both the roots and gums are stable, we will remove any decayed areas of the tooth before reshaping it to prepare for the fitting of the crown.
Next, we take an impression of the tooth as a tool for the dental lab to fabricate your dental crown, a process that usually takes about two to three weeks to complete. If it is necessary, we can place a temporary crown, typically made from acrylic, to protect the reshaped tooth from any further damage.
When your dental crown is completed at the lab, we will schedule an appointment for the removal of the temporary crown and the placement of the final crown. We might suggest administering a local anesthetic so you are comfortable during the procedure and do not experience any discomfort. Once both you and your team approve the color and shape of the crown, it is cemented into place, and you are good to go with your new smile.
A Dental Crown versus Veneers
When Burch Dental discusses your dental options, you may be questioning what procedure is best for your situation. If you have previously compared crowns and veneers, it is important to note that these restorations differ in functionality, placement, and purpose.
Veneers: Veneers are wafer-thin shells, typically made of porcelain, that cover just the front surface of your teeth to alter their color, size, and shape. They are perfect for hiding cracks, chips, and any signs of discoloration. They mostly serve as a cosmetic option rather than a restorative procedure, improving the aesthetics.
Crowns: If you need a dental crown, usually you are interested in restoring both the appearance and the functionality of your tooth. The single biggest difference is that dental crowns cover the entire visible surface of the tooth above the gum line, allowing for more effective chewing and biting when eating. The dental crown does have cosmetic benefits, but the primary purpose is focused on the repair of damaged or decayed teeth.
It is always best to discuss multiple treatment options with us to ensure we are choosing the correct procedure for your dental concern.