FAQ About Dental Crowns

When a tooth becomes too decayed, diseased or damaged to be repaired with a dental filling, a custom crown is typically the best solution. Dental crowns are one of the most time-tested treatments in restorative dentistry. They can be fabricated in various materials, but they all serve as a cap for a damaged tooth, covering all visible sides of the tooth above the gum line. Crowns restore function and aesthetics to a broken or damaged tooth for years to come.

If you have been told you need a dental crown, it is understandable that you have questions. Here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions to help you feel more at east about the procedure as well as the results of getting a crown:

How long will a dental crown last?

A top-quality, porcelain dental crowns provide unrivaled durability and strength for a tooth. A crown that is properly cared for can last an average of 15 years, and some crowns can retain their condition for up to 25 years! Just like your natural teeth, it is important that you brush, floss and attend your professional dental cleanings to avoid crown replacement prematurely.

What is the process to get a dental crown?

In the past, getting a dental crown required several visits to the dentist office and a series of messy dental impressions. However, by choosing a modern cosmetic dentist such as Dr. Gilreath, you can get your custom dental crown in just one day! Using our CEREC® CAD/CAM technology, we can restore the natural strength and beauty of your tooth in a single office visit. First, we will take a picture of your tooth and then convert it to a 3-D virtual model. Dr. Gilreath can then use this virtual model to create a custom crown that can be immediately placed on your tooth.

Will the crown look like your other teeth?

A well-crafted dental crown should be indistinguishable from your surrounding teeth. Porcelain crowns deliver the same texture and translucency as natural teeth, and we will fabricate your crown to match the size, shape and color of your original tooth. Crowns are highly customizable, which is perfect for a seamless restorative solution.

Will my crown stain or decay?

Your crown will not stain or decay like a natural tooth. However, don’t be fooled. You still have a natural tooth underneath your crown that can suffer decay and cause you to need a crown replacement.

Does it hurt to have a dental crown?

Thanks to modern anesthetics and sedation dentistry, your crown placement should be a painless procedure. With the utilization of CEREC technology, the process is even less invasive and quicker for your comfort.

What care does a crown need?

Beyond excellent oral hygiene and dental checkups, it is critical that you watch your dental habits. Chewing ice, biting fingernails or opening packages with your teeth can be a major threat to your dental crown. In addition, if you have a nighttime teeth grinding habit, you’ll need to consult with your dentist about a mouthguard to protect your crown.

Have further concerns or questions about getting a dental crown? We are happy to answer them! Call Gilreath Dental Associates today!