At Gentle Touch Family Dentistry, we understand the importance of preserving and restoring the function and aesthetics of your teeth. Dental crowns are a versatile and effective solution for addressing various dental issues. 

This comprehensive buyer’s guide will explore dental crowns, their purposes, the procedure itself, their advantages, potential drawbacks, and what to consider when choosing dental crowns to solve your dental needs.

Understanding Dental Crowns

What Are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are custom-fitted tooth prosthetics to restore damaged or broken teeth. These crowns are designed to mimic the original tooth’s shape, size, and appearance, providing both functional and aesthetic benefits. Gentle Touch Family Dentistry offers same-day dental crowns for convenience, allowing patients to restore their smiles in a timely manner. 

With our expertise in restorative dentistry, we’re dedicated to providing quality care and helping patients achieve healthy and beautiful smiles.

Reasons for Choosing Dental Crowns

Dental crowns can be chosen for various reasons, including:

  • Tooth Decay: Crowns restore teeth with extensive decay that cannot be effectively treated with fillings.
  • Fractured or Cracked Teeth: Teeth fractured, cracked, or weakened due to trauma can be strengthened and protected with crowns.
  • Root Canal Therapy: A crown is often over the treated tooth to support and prevent further infection after a root canal procedure.
  • Cosmetic Enhancement: Crowns can improve the appearance of misshapen, discolored, or poorly sized teeth, enhancing your smile.
  • Tooth Replacement: Crowns are the visible component of dental implants and bridges restore missing teeth.
  • Worn Teeth: Teeth that have been excessively worn due to bruxism (teeth grinding) or other factors can be restored with crowns.

How Dental Crowns Work

The process of getting a dental crown typically involves the following steps:

  • Consultation: You will talk with your dentist to assess the condition of your tooth and discuss the need for a crown.
  • Tooth Preparation: To accommodate the crown, the dentist removes a portion of the tooth’s outer structure. This is usually done under local anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable.
  • Impressions: An impression of the prepared tooth is taken, which serves as a mold for creating the custom crown.
  • Temporary Crown: During the time that the permanent crown is being crafted, a temporary crown will serve to preserve the tooth that will eventually receive the permanent crown.
  • Crown Fabrication: The permanent crown is manufactured in a dental laboratory using the impression and is typically made of materials like porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination.
  • Crown Placement: When the permanent crown is complete, it will be placed on the is securely bonded or cemented onto the prepared tooth, restoring its function and appearance.

Advantages of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns offer several advantages, making them a popular choice for restorative and cosmetic dentistry:

  • Restoration of Function: Crowns restore the strength and functionality of a damaged or weakened tooth, allowing you to chew and bite with confidence.
  • Enhanced Aesthetics: Crowns can improve the appearance of discolored, misshapen, or poorly sized teeth, enhancing your smile.
  • Longevity: Well-maintained dental crowns can last many years, providing a durable and cost-effective solution.
  • Customization: Crowns are custom-made to match the color, size, and shape of your natural teeth, creating a seamless and natural look.
  • Protection: Crowns protect and encapsulate a tooth, preventing further damage and decay.

Potential Drawbacks of Dental Crowns

While dental crowns offer numerous benefits, it’s essential to be aware of potential drawbacks:

  • Cost: Dental crowns can be relatively expensive and it’s possible that your dental insurance won’t cover everything. It’s crucial to discuss pricing and financing options with your dental provider.
  • Tooth Preparation: The process involves removing a portion of the tooth’s natural structure, which cannot be reversed. However, it is necessary to accommodate the crown.
  • Sensitivity: Some individuals may experience temporary sensitivity or discomfort after the crown placement.
  • Maintenance: Proper maintenance and regular dental check-ups are necessary to ensure the longevity and success of crowns.
  • Potential Allergies: In rare cases, individuals may have allergies to the materials used in crown fabrication. Discuss any allergies or sensitivities with your dentist.

Choosing Dental Crowns

Selecting dental crowns as a solution involves careful consideration of various factors:

  • Professional Assessment: Consult with your dentist to determine if a dental crown is the right treatment for your dental issue.
  • Crown Material: Discuss the available crown materials (e.g., porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination) with your dentist to choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
  • Budget: Consider your budget and explore financing options if needed. Your dental provider can provide a detailed breakdown of expenses.
  • Aftercare and Maintenance: Familiarize yourself with post-crown placement care instructions and maintenance requirements to ensure the longevity of your crown.
  • Communication: Maintain open and ongoing communication with your dentist throughout the process. Express any concerns or questions you may have.

Aftercare and Maintenance

Proper aftercare and maintenance are essential for ensuring the longevity and success of your dental crowns:

  • Oral Hygiene: Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly to prevent plaque buildup, staining, and decay.
  • Dietary Choices: Be mindful of dietary choices, especially there are some foods and beverages that can contribute to the development of dental decay or damage. Limiting sugar intake promotes overall oral health.
  • Regular Dental Check-Ups: Attend scheduled dental check-up appointments as your dentist recommends. These visits help monitor the condition of your dental crown and address any issues promptly.
  • Protective Measures: If you grind your teeth or engage in contact sports, consider using a mouthguard or protective measures to prevent damage to your crown.

At Gentle Touch Family Dentistry, we are committed to providing top-quality dental crown services tailored to your unique needs and preferences. Our experienced team of dentists utilizes advanced techniques, state-of-the-art materials, and a patient-centric approach to deliver the best possible outcomes for our patients.

If dental crowns are the right choice for you or you have questions about the process, contact us today to schedule an appointment. We are here to assist you navigate, handle your concerns, and succeed with a healthier and more beautiful smile. 

Dental crowns are an adaptable and reliable remedy for a variety of dental issues, providing both function and aesthetics.