A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that restores and protects decayed, broken, or weak teeth. A crown is recommended when the tooth cannot be fixed by a simple filling. Crowns can improve the aesthetic look of the tooth, restore strength, and create a more functional tooth. Crowns are also used to protect the tooth after a root canal, fortify bridges and implants.

Crowns can be made of different types of material. The most common would be porcelain, ceramic, gold, and porcelain fused to metal. Porcelain and ceramic are the most common to get the crown closest to the tooth’s natural color. Most patients use these materials for front teeth.

How long a dental crown lasts, depends on many things. This would include the type of material used, where the crown is located, and the overall oral health of the patient. Usually, we expect a crown to last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, but with good oral health, it can last even longer.

Because of medical advancements, the process of getting a dental crown is typically painless as we use a local anesthetic to numb the area of the mouth. There may be some discomfort after the procedure, but it should be managed through over-the-counter medications.

Usually, two appointments are needed for a crown. The first appointment is when the dentist looks at the tooth parameters, takes impressions, prepares the tooth by removing any tooth decay from the affected area, and places a temporary crown. The second appointment is usually about two weeks later. At this appointment, the doctor will make sure that the permanent crown fits correctly and is cemented into place.

Yes, it is possible for a crowned tooth to get a cavity. Usually, this happens at the gumline or in the structure of the tooth. This is why it is important to practice good oral health to prevent further cavities from occurring.

Keeping good oral health is the key to caring for your crown. Practicing good oral health entails brushing your teeth twice and flossing twice a day or more if possible. Also, try to avoid chewing on hard or chewy foods that can damage the crown.

Yes, because of medical advances, we are able to match the color of the crown perfectly to the rest of your teeth. Porcelain or ceramic crowns would be the best options to get the most natural look.

Both crowns and veneers are very similar, but they have different purposes. A crown covers the entire tooth and is usually used when the tooth needs more support from decay. A veneer is a cover that goes over the front of the tooth and is usually only used for cosmetic purposes.

If your crown falls off or is damaged, give our office a call to schedule an appointment to get the crown placed back on. Try not to attach or glue the crown yourself as this could cause more damage to the crown. Our skilled dentist will be able to assess whether the crown just needs to be re-cemented or if a new crown is needed.