Dental crowns or “caps” are fixed prosthetic devices used to strengthen and protect teeth that are damaged or decayed. Crowns can also be placed on the top of a dental implant post to replace the entire tooth structure.
Like other cosmetic and restorative dental solutions, you have a choice in the materials that are used to construct your restoration. While older crowns were made from materials like gold or metal alloys, most of the crowns used today are made from porcelain or ceramic colors that match the surrounding teeth. These materials are not only attractive but also durable so they can last a very long time.
If you need a dental crown, Porter Dental Health Clinic will work with you to determine the type of crown that best suits your needs. Our ultimate goal is to restore your tooth to normal form and function and help you enjoy a complete, healthy smile for life.
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When Are Dental Crowns Recommended?
Crowns are used to do the following:
- Protect a badly cracked or damaged tooth from fracturing
- Protect a badly decayed tooth with too much decay for a filling
- Cover a tooth after root canal therapy
- Cover a dental implant post
- Anchor a dental bridge
- Camouflage an abnormally shaped or discolored tooth
Crowns can actually save a tooth from needing to be extracted. Prior to dental crowns becoming popular, seriously damaged or diseased teeth often were extracted, leaving a noticeable gap in between the teeth and contributing to other oral health problems. Luckily, crowns provide the strength, structure and protection that weakened or injured teeth need to avoid extraction.
Placing the Dental Crown
It usually takes about two dental visits to plan out and place a dental crown.
During the first visit, one of our dentists examines the affected tooth and removes damaged or diseased tooth structure. An impression of the affected tooth is taken to send to the dental laboratory that creates the crown. A temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth. Wearing a temporary crown for a few weeks while you wait for your permanent restoration is helpful, as it allows you time to get used to the crown and provide any feedback that can help refine your permanent restoration.
Once the dental laboratory has created the crown, the second visit takes place. The provisional crown is removed and your permanent crown fitted in place. If you are happy with the way it looks and feels, and Drs. Porter and Purifoy are happy with how it supports your bite, it will be bonded in place with a strong dental cement.
As long as you properly care for your dental crown, it should last a long time. Crowns can last seven to 10 years or longer with the right maintenance. You should brush and floss your crown like a normal tooth, and visit Porter Dental Health Clinic at least twice a year to have it checked.
Why Choose Us For Dental Crowns
At Porter Dental Health Clinic, patients receive personalized care focused on long-term oral health. Our team takes time to understand each patient’s needs and ensure each patient is comfortable.
Dr. Lance Porter and Dr. Will Warren only recommend dental crowns when the restorations will support improved tooth strength, function, and appearance. Using modern materials and a detail-oriented approach, we aim to create crowns that feel natural and blend seamlessly with your smile. Patients consistently value the attentive care and welcoming environment provided by our highly skilled dental team.
FAQs About Dental Crowns
Will a dental crown look natural next to my other teeth?
Modern dental crowns are crafted to closely match the color, shape, and translucency of surrounding teeth. Our experienced dentists consider your smile line, bite, and natural tooth shading when selecting materials and designing the crown. When properly placed, most people can't tell the difference between a crown and a natural tooth.
Is it normal to feel sensitivity after getting a crown?
Mild sensitivity to temperature or pressure is common after crown placement, especially during the first few days. This usually fades as the tooth adjusts. If sensitivity persists or worsens, it may indicate a bite issue or underlying irritation that should be evaluated.
Can a crown fix a tooth that has had a root canal?
Yes. Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment are often weaker and more prone to fracture. A dental crown helps protect the tooth by restoring strength and preventing further damage, making it a common and recommended follow-up after root canal therapy.
What happens if a crown feels loose or comes off?
A loose or detached crown requires immediate attention. Avoid chewing on that side and keep the crown if possible. Reattachment may be possible depending on the condition of the tooth and crown. Delaying care can increase the risk of decay or damage to the underlying tooth.
Are dental crowns only used for cosmetic reasons?
Although crowns can improve appearance, they are primarily restorative. Our dentists often use crowns to repair cracked teeth, protect weakened enamel, restore proper bite alignment, and prevent further deterioration. Cosmetic benefits are usually a secondary advantage.
Do crowns require special care compared to natural teeth?
Crowns don't require special tools, but they do require consistent care. Brushing twice daily, flossing around the crown margin, and keeping up with regular dental cleanings help prevent gum disease and tooth decay at the crown margin.
Are there alternatives to dental crowns?
Depending on the condition of the tooth, alternatives such as porcelain veneers, inlays or onlays, or tooth-colored fillings may be possible. Your dentist at Porter Dental Health Clinic evaluates the extent of damage, bite forces, and long-term durability before recommending the most appropriate option.