Dental Crowns Chapel Hill
fall in love with your smile
Repair Decay & Damaged Teeth with Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are often suggested for individuals who are interested in improving issues related to decay or damage. Crowns can also be used for a variety of reasons, including correcting cosmetic issues such as chipped or broken teeth or discoloration, to support a dental bridge, or in conjunction with a root canal to protect the tooth that is restored.
Crowns are essentially a custom-designed cap that fit over a tooth, which can effectively improve the appearance of the tooth, restore functionality, and improve the overall strength of the tooth. Crowns can be made from a variety of material types, including composite resin, ceramics, metal alloys, and porcelain. Crowns are most commonly shaded to match the color of your natural teeth, which gives them a very natural and subtle appearance.
Dental crowns can be a wonderful option for patients who are looking for a long-term solution for improving the health and aesthetic appearance of their smile. If you would like to learn more about dental crowns, please read below, or contact our staff who will be happy to answer any of your questions and/or set up a consultation.
If you would like to schedule an appointment or if you have any questions about our treatment options, please contact our office at (919) 595-1010. We look forward to creating the smile you have always desired a reality for you.
Steps and Timeframe for Dental Crowns
The dental crown procedure involves several steps, which are summarized below.
Prior to having dental crowns placed over a natural tooth, you will need to have an initial consultation so your dentist can review your dental and medical history, discuss your concerns, perform an examination, and if necessary, take X-rays or photos to determine the current state of your oral health and determine whether or not any damage has occurred below the gum line.
If it is determined that dental crowns are the right treatment for you and that the gums and roots are stable based upon the X-ray results, your dentist will prepare the tooth by removing the outer portion of the tooth, as well as any decay.
Once the area has been properly prepared, an impression will be made of your crown. The process for making this mold can take around two to three weeks. During this waiting period, you will likely be given a temporary crown. While you have this temporary crown, it is important to be aware that you may have increased sensitivity to cold and hot food and beverages. It is also important to avoid eating any foods that are especially sticky or hard until the permanent crown has been placed.
Once your new crown is complete, a follow up appointment will be scheduled where the temporary crown will be removed and the new crown will be placed. Prior to placing the crown, your dentist will ensure the fit and color are correct. Once this is confirmed, a local anesthetic will be administered and the crown will be placed and permanently cemented in.
Dental Crowns Vs. Veneers
Patients who are considering dental crowns may also be considering dental veneers. Both approaches have their positives and their negatives with regards to cost, functionality, and placement. People will typically opt to have crowns placed when they wish to restore function and the aesthetic appearance of their smile. Unlike veneers, which only cover the front of the tooth or teeth, crowns will cover the entire surface of the tooth, which will improve the patient’s ability to bite and chew. Veneers, on the other hand, are primarily used to improve the aesthetic appearance of your smile by hiding discoloration or improving issues such as chipped or broken teeth, discoloration, crowding, or tooth spacing.
It is important to talk with your dentist to determine which approach is best for you.
Proper Care Improves Longevity of the Dental Crowns
To continue enjoying the benefits of your dental crowns, be sure to practice good oral hygiene habits every day. If you follow these best practices, your dental crowns should last you a long time.
- Brush twice daily (minimum) and practice proper brushing technique. In addition to brushing regularly, it is also important to brush effectively. Our staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have about proper brushing techniques.
- Floss daily. If you are someone who tends to avoid flossing, you may want to consider flossing alternatives, such as interdental brushes or floss picks.
- Be mindful of your diet. One of the best ways you can prevent dental issues from developing is to avoid foods that are sugary or high in starch. If you do drink soda or sugary beverages, try to use a straw to limit exposure of sugar to your teeth. It is also important to swish your mouth with water following meals, as doing so can dislodge food remnants, which, if left alone can create future tooth decay.
- Schedule regular dental exams. Unchecked dental issues can result in additional issues and progression of decay, which is why it is so important to visit your dentist every six months. In addition to providing a deep clean for your teeth and diagnosing potential issues before they progress, these regular checkups also allow your dentist to monitor the status of your dental crowns.
High-Quality Dental Care
At Cornerstone Family Dentistry in Chapel Hill, all our services are performed with the patient in mind. We want you to feel comfortable in the dental chair, confident in our work, and most importantly, we want you to fall in love with your smile again. If you would like to schedule an appointment or if you have any questions about cosmetic procedures that we offer, please contact us at (919) 595-1010.