Did you know that teeth that have been severely decayed or structurally damaged can be repaired with a restorative treatment known as a dental crown?
We recommend crowns as a tooth replacement when there is an insufficient amount of natural healthy tooth structure, but also to prevent a weak or brittle tooth from fracturing or restoring a fractured tooth. In some cases, crowns serve as a cover for a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy or to improve discolored or poorly shaped teeth.
At Bell Dental Studio we understand that preserving as many of your natural teeth as possible is crucial for your overall health, so we make it as easy for you as possible by offering ONE VISIT CROWN SERVICE!
Who is an Ideal candidate for the Crown?
Dental crowns are utilized when necessary to repair a damaged tooth. These restorations can be made of a variety of different materials, from metal alloy to all-porcelain. Metal dental crowns have a long history in dentistry. However, they do not blend into the natural appearance of the smile so have fallen out of favor with the vast majority of patients. Porcelain crowns are an excellent treatment option for the person who wants not only an authentic-looking smile but also a restoration that does not involve placing metal in the mouth. These crowns are made to match the shade of surrounding teeth and to feel just like a natural tooth when chewing and when touched by the tongue.
Porcelain Crowns to Restore Damaged Teeth
Dental crowns protect and restore teeth. In this way, they prevent further tooth damage and maintain a healthy, pleasing smile. Specifically, a tooth crown may be used for the following:
To improve appearance and function
To protect a weak, damaged tooth
To prevent a tooth from breaking apart
To hold together a fractured tooth
Restoring a tooth after a root canal
As the replacement tooth atop a dental implant
As the support for a replacement tooth in a dental bridge
Other dentistry restorations may also be an option, depending on the exact issue you are facing. Inlays, onlays and dental fillings are a few other restorations commonly used to treat damaged, decayed or weakened teeth. Our dentists are experienced in many techniques, which means they know how to restore teeth in a way that returns the tooth to an appearance, function and strength that mimics natural tooth properties.
What are the potential risks of getting a Porcelain Crown?
All dental procedures carry inherent risks. Though rare, a patient may have an allergic reaction to the medications administered during treatment. Due to the absence of metal in porcelain crowns, the risk of allergic reaction to the crown itself is virtually zero. Additional risks of getting a dental crown include temporary nerve trauma. To prepare a dental crown, the dentist must reduce the tooth a measured amount. This is done with a dental diamond or drill bit attached to the dental handpiece that vibrates against the tooth structure to create the space needed for the restorative material.. Removing the diseased part of the tooth and old restorations may lead to temporary sensitivity and mild discomfort that can take several weeks to fully resolve. Dental crowns are widely revered as necessary and successful dental restorations. The risks of treatment are very low.
Porcelain Crowns vs. Other Types of Crowns
Dr. Micheal Bell and Dr. Drew Bell prefer all-porcelain crowns at Bell Dental Studio. Advantages of this type of dental crown include:
Natural tooth color-matched to your teeth
Durable, strong porcelain material
Secure bond formed between porcelain and enamel
Another common type of crown is made of porcelain fused to a metal base. While that type of crown is quite durable, it tends to cause the tooth to have a grey or silver tint. Also, a thin line of metal can become visible along your gum line, especially if your gums begin to recede. These problems are avoided when an all-porcelain crown is used. In some cases, on back teeth that are under great bite stress and little natural tooth above the gumline a gold alloy crown will be necessary as the gold can be made thinner than an all ceramic crown.
How long do Porcelain Crowns last?
A dental crown can last an average of 15 years. Porcelain crowns may last anywhere from 5 years to
more than 20. The longevity of the restoration is influenced by numerous factors. Patients who take excellent care of their teeth and gums should face lower chances of a crown failing. In addition to dental habits, chewing habits and lifestyle habits also contribute to the lifespan of a dental crown. Some tips for good dental crown maintenance include;
Brush and floss daily as recommended by the dentist.
Maintain regular dental checkups and cleanings every six months.
If you clench or grind your teeth, have your dentist fabricate a custom-fit night guard to protect your teeth and gums.
Do not bite or chew ice or objects other than food.
Porcelain Crown Aftercare
After getting a dental crown, there are a few Do’s and Don’ts that patients should follow:
DON’T chew until the anesthesia from treatment wears off and the mouth has full sensation.
DO eat softer foods for a day or two while the nerve, tooth, and gums recover from treatment. .
DO take care of the gums. After getting a crown, the gums may be somewhat irritated or tender. They can be encouraged to heal by rinsing the mouth with warm salty water. This can be repeated a few times a day to soothe the gum tissue.
If you are interested in porcelain crowns at Bell Dental Studio, please call our helpful team at 512-399-1115. We appreciate being of service to you, your friends and families!